Think before you flush!
Grace Sweeney
Recent survey have shown there’s an increase in households using the toilet as a bin causing overflows from sewer and pumping networks into streams and onto beaches.
It was revealed that those aged under 35 are almost twice as likely to dispose of products down the toilet, compared to those aged over 35, and almost three times as likely compared to those over 55.
The survey also revealed that items like hair, wipes, paper towels, dental floss, cleaning wipes, tampons, baby wipes, cotton buds, and cigarette butts are being inappropriately flushed down the toilet.
Campaigners for Think before You Flush, Uisce Éireann and Clean Coasts want to reiterate that even if the packaging is labelled as 'flushable', wipes should never be disposed of in toilets.
Tom Cuddy, Uisce Éireann said: “In 2018, our research showed that 36% of people living in Ireland were regularly flushing the wrong things down the toilet. Today, we are pleased to announce that this figure has significantly decreased to 24%. While this one third decrease is certainly encouraging, it is crucial to acknowledge that it represents a slight increase compared to recent years.”
Sinead McCoy of Clean Coasts said: “Our message is straightforward: only the 3 Ps – pee, poo, and paper – should find their way into the toilet bowl. All other items must be placed in the bin.
“By following this practice, we can significantly reduce sewer blockages, minimise the risk of home and business flooding, and mitigate the environmental pollution that poses a threat to wildlife, such as fish and birds, their natural habitats, and our coastlines.”
She continued by stating that “a minor change in our flushing behaviour can have huge benefits for our natural surroundings – simply dispose of wipes, cotton bud sticks, and sanitary items in the bin, not down the toilet”.
Especially with the growing popularity of year-round open water swimming, it is important to remember that our flushing habits directly affect the environment and in particular rivers and coastal areas.
Uisce Éireann advises that “making minor adjustments in our daily habits can play a crucial role in preventing sanitary waste appearing along rivers, sandy beaches, rugged shores, and hidden bays”.
Mr Cuddy said: “We are just asking people to take a moment to consider their flushing habits and put litter in the bin rather than down the toilet.
“The impact of removing these products from our wastewater system is immense, and they unfortunately can ultimately end up on our beautiful beaches and rivers right across the country,” he added.
Mr Cuddy highlighted that “every individuals contribution counts, and by making conscientious choices about what we flush, we can collectively make a huge difference”.