Increase in Donegal households using the toilet as a bin

Uisce Éireann and Clean Coasts are urging the public to continue to ‘Think Before You Flush’ as alarmingly a recent survey has revealed an increase in the disposal of wipes and other sanitary products down the toilet.

Whether labelled as ‘flushable’ or not, wipes should never be disposed of in toilets.

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.

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.

The campaign is also being championed by swimming and outdoor advocates who are appealing to the public to consider their habits and Think Before You Flush.

Speaking about the survey results, Tom Cuddy, Uisce Éireann said in 2018 research showed that 36 per cent 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 per cent.

“While this one third decrease is certainly encouraging, it is crucial to acknowledge that it represents a slight increase compared to recent years,” he said.

Uisce Éireann and Clean Coasts have been steadfast partners for the last seven years with a joint mission to drive the Think Before You Flush Campaign and reduce environmental impacts through behavioural change.

Despite this progress, there remains a pressing concern as there are still too many people flushing the wrong items down the toilet impacting our natural and built environment.

Speaking about the campaign, Sinead McCoy, Clean Coasts said their 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.

“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,” she said.

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