Tackling the challenge of cigarette-related litter with Amberol bins

Much media attention has been quite rightly focused on the environmental problems posed by the prevalence of single use plastic in terms of sustainability and the need for recycling at source.

However, plastic is not the only waste challenge facing councils and local authorities. Surprisingly, cigarette butts are one of the most littered items, costing UK authorities an estimated £40 million each year to clear up. In fact, research carried out by Keep Britain Tidy last year revealed that smoking-related waste accounts for over two thirds of all littered items, making it the most commonly littered category in England.

Why are litter rates so high?

This is even more surprising given that smoking rates are at their lowest level for decades. The fact that the ban on smoking indoors drives smokers outside on the streets may be one explanation. Another may be that many people don’t see dropping cigarette butts as littering, despite the fact that it’s a criminal offence and subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice of £150.

Some smokers erroneously believe that it’s perfectly acceptable to throw their butts down a drain. However, cigarette butts are not compostable and once littered they leach toxic chemicals such as acetic acid, hexamine, arsenic, and chromium into the water and atmosphere. Not only does this cause pollution, it can also be harmful to wildlife.

Whatever the reason, disposing of cigarette butts incorrectly is a big problem for the environment and the organisations that are tasked with cleaning that litter up.

Can we be smoke-free by 2030?

The UK government has committed to the ambitious target of achieving a smoke-free country by 2030, which would of course eradicate the problem. However, given the huge challenges around achieving that objective within such a short timescale, in the interim, ensuring adequate facilities for the disposal of cigarette-related litter is an important step. This needs to sit alongside educating the public about the impact of littering on communities, the environment and wildlife - as well as enforcing appropriate sanctions.

Amberol’s solution for smoking-related litter

Many of Amberol’s outdoor litter bins such as the Chatsworth, Floor-standing Enviro and Olympic Dual Bins include cigarette stubber plates as standard. The Chatworth and Olympic can also be fitted with collection tubes for cigarette stubs to further reduce litter. Other bins such as the Square Deal and Stipple Bins offer stubber plates as an optional feature to help people dispose of cigarette litter safely.

In addition, the Gum and Ciggy Bin has been designed to address this specific issue. The wall mounted bin has an integral cigarette stubber and fire retardant internal liner. The bins have a side hinge and slam lock for quick and easy emptying.

From government, to councils, to businesses to individuals, we all have a responsibility to reduce litter for the good of our communities and the environment. The right litter bin is an important part of ensuring the right infrastructure is in place to achieve this.

Can we help you reduce litter?

If you would like more information about the Amberol range of litter bins, including bins designed to reduce cigarette-related litter, call 01773 830 930 or email sales@amberol.co.uk. You can also arrange a free, no-obligation virtual demo personally tailored for your requirements.