Cigarette butts are one of the most common litter types in the world and with the smoking ban in place for two years now, there has been a noticeable increase in the amount of cigarette litter on our streets.

How can we prevent this?

There are a number of ways to stop the build up of cigarettes and to create a cleaner environment for us to live in. One of the most simple methods in preventing build ups of litter is litter picking, this can be done by volunteers or workers employed by the council specially for this task. Councils spend thousands of pounds each year cleaning our streets and disposing of the litter, when this money could be spent elsewhere. However there are other options to stop people throwing their butts down in the first place.

Enforcement

In Northern Ireland the on the spot fine for dropping litter is £50. However, the results of the Northern Ireland council litter survey show a huge variation in how each individual council approaches the problem of littering, and highlights the differing attitudes to dealing with offenders. However enforcement does remain one of the most effective ways to deter litterers especially as when one individual is fined they are likely to tell many others about it.

Education

This is a chance to educate the public, both smokers and non-smokers about how to dispose of their waste responsibly. This can be done through TIDY Northern Ireland campaigns using various methods such as surveys, leaflets, posters and media. This is one of the most simple methods to prevent cigarette littering and it is hoped that through education of the public litterers will be award of the impacts and dangers of throwing down their butts.

Ash Trays

If ashtrays or butt bins are present near exits and entries to buildings most smokers will use them. Studies have shown that although these ashtrays do help, more needs to be done to reduce the problem.

Pocket Ashtrays

Pocket ashtrays are a handy way to dispose of your cigarettes without having to go and find a butt bin or drop it on the ground. They come in all shapes and colours and can easily fit in your handbag or pocket!