National: Increase of Irish adults using the toilet as a bin

IRISH adults aged under 35 are almost twice as likely to use toilets as a bin, compared to their older counterparts.

A recent survey by Clean Coasts and Uisce Éireann found an increase in people under 35-years-old flush wipes and other sanitary products, unsuitable for flushing.

The same cohort of people are three times as likely to dispose of rubbish in the toilet, compared to those over 55. 

As part of the ‘Think Before You Flush’ campaign, Clean Coasts and Uisce Éireann are looking to raise awareness around the issue to help protect coastal waters and the environment.

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“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,” said Tom Cuddy of Uisce Éireann.

“The impact of removing these products from our wastewater system is immense, and they, unfortunately, end up on our beautiful beaches and rivers right across the country. 

“Every individual's contribution counts, and by making conscientious choices about what we flush, we can collectively make a huge difference,” Mr Cuddy concluded. 

1,062 adults aged 18+ were surveyed by behaviour and attitudes. Where relevant, comparisons to similar surveys are made, to assist us in understanding the nation’s flushing behaviour.

Sewage related littering is highest in younger age profiles with close to four in ten (40%) of under 35s admitting to regularly flushing unsuitable items down the toilet, compared to 22% for those aged 35-54 and 14% for those aged 55+.