LITTER MONITORING BODY ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2000/2001

Transcription

1 THE NATIONAL LITTER POLLUTION MONITORING SYSTEM LITTER MONITORING BODY ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2000/2001 February 2002 Prepared for: The Department of the Environment and Local Government, Custom House, Dublin 1. Prepared by: TES Consulting Engineers The Litter Monitoring Body, Unit 4B/5 Blanchardstown Corporate Park Dublin 15

2 THE NATIONAL LITTER POLLUTION MONITORING SYSTEM LITTER MONITORING BODY ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2000/2001 February 2002 Prepared for: The Department of the Environment and Local Government, Custom House, Dublin 1.

3 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS Introduction Results Detailed Analysis of Implementation Status PRELIMINARY LITTER MONITORNG ASSESSMENT Litter Quantification Surveys Litter Pollution Surveys ACTIVITIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN IN YEAR THREE DELIVERABLES ACHIEVED IN YEAR TWO Development of Survey Methodology and Production of the Monitoring Manual Information Updates Litter Monitoring Body Meetings and Presentations Review of Litter Management Best Practice Litter Monitoring Body Promotional Activities Local Authority Litter Management Plan Assessment Frequently Asked Questions Litter Monitoring Officer CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS...27 APPENDIX ONE SURVEY METHODOLOGY... I APPENDIX TWO INFORMATION UPDATES... XI APPENDIX THREE REGIONAL MEETINGS... XIII APPENDIX FOUR OVERVIEW OF LITTER ABATEMENT BEST PRACTICE... XVII APPENDIX FIVE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS... XXX

4 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February INTRODUCTION were appointed in May 1999 as the Litter Monitoring Body to develop the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. The system has been developed along the lines of an Environmental Management System (EMS). The main aim of any EMS is to facilitate continuous assessment of an environmental problem, which in turn allows for its continuous improvement in a structured and pro-active manner. In the case of the national litter pollution monitoring system, environmental improvement is defined as the reduction and then elimination, as far as practicable, of litter pollution nationwide. The system, as developed, not only allows the assessment of absolute performance at a given location on a particular day, but also identifies the level of ongoing improvement for each local authority against that authority s own performance benchmark. The national litter pollution monitoring system therefore provides a framework for consistent, co-ordinated and accurate self-assessment by the local authorities irrespective of the nature and size of their functional areas. When fully operationally, the system will consolidate all localised litter-related data currently held by local authorities in a single, standardised and documented format. The national litter pollution monitoring system has been designed to meet the needs of all local authorities, while remaining flexible enough to accommodate the local conditions in each local authority area. This requires that the system to be implemented must be sophisticated enough to accommodate all possible eventualities. The consequence of this sophistication is that a certain level of complexity is necessary in the setting-up of the system to ensure that it will be capable of evolving to meet the changing needs of national litter management in the years ahead. This Annual Report summarises the key activities which have been undertaken by the Litter Monitoring Body (in consultation with the project s Steering Group) over the past year to facilitate the development of an efficient and effective national monitoring mechanism, reports on local authority progress with system implementation, assesses the results of some local authority benchmark surveys and outlines the priorities for action over the remainder of the contract. Page 1 of 28

5 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS 2.1 Introduction An implementation report was submitted to the Department of the Environment and Local Government in July This report detailed the progress in the implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System to that date. In order to assess the further improvement in the system s implementation the Litter Monitoring Body conducted a telephone survey during the third quarter of The results of this telephone surveys are detailed below. Since the completion of the regional meetings in October 2001, local authority feedback has indicated that there has been an increase in implementation activities. The results below indeed prove that there is an increase in the number of local authorities actively encouraging the implementation of the system. There are a total of 72 local authorities implementing the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System across the country. This is a marked improvement since the last assessment of implementation progress undertaken in July 2001, when there was a reported 54 local authorities implementing the system. Ten local authorities have returned survey results to the Litter Monitoring Body. 2.2 Results Not Commenced 20% Commenced 80% Figure 2.1 The percentage of all local authorities that are currently implementing the Litter Monitoring System within their functional areas. Page 2 of 28

6 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Implementation Progress from June to December Commenced Not Commenced 10 0 June December Commenced Not Commenced Figure 2.2 Graphical representation of the number of local authority implementing the system in June and December Table 2.1: The number of local authorities who are implementing the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. County Councils Boroughs Councils & City Councils Town Councils Total Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete Data Entry Complete Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced Survey Data Returned to LMB Page 3 of 28

7 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Implementation Status within all Local Authorities December 2001 Survey Data Returned to LMB 10 Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced 10 Data Entry Complete 16 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete 22 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced 14 Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Figure 2.3 Chart representing the stages of implementation within all local authorities Implementation Status within Borough Councils and City Councils Survey Data Returned to LMB 2 Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced 2 Data Entry Complete 3 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete 0 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced 1 Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Figure 2.4 Chart representing the stages of implementation within City Councils and County Borough Councils Page 4 of 28

8 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Implementation Status within County Councils Survey Data Returned to LMB 7 Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced 5 Data Entry Complete 2 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete 10 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced 2 Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Figure 2.5 Chart representing the stages of implementation within County Councils Implementation Status within Town Councils Survey Data Returned to LMB 1 Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced 3 Data Entry Complete 11 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete 12 Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced 11 Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Figure 2.6 Chart representing the stages of implementation within Town Councils Page 5 of 28

9 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 There are a total of 18 local authorities that have yet to begin implementation of the system. The majority of these are Town Councils, 11 in total. Although this figure remains high, there has been an improvement in the number of Town Councils actively implementing the system. It should be noted that although there are a number of local authorities yet to commence implementation (refer Section 2.3.2), feedback has indicated that most have given a commitment to begin in early Progress in the implementation can be attributed to a number of factors including: Regional Meetings, which provided training to local authority staff some of whom had not previously been introduced to the system. The regional meetings also provided a platform for questions to be asked in relation to specific problems encountered in the implementation of the system; Additional GIS training is being provided on request by the LGCSB. This allows those involved with Phase I and Phase II of the system s implementation an opportunity to receive a full briefing concerning the GIS component of the system; A further action to expedite the system s implementation was the issuing of a DoELG Circular Letter to all County Managers. The purpose of this letter was to update County Managers on the system s progress, to ask them to encourage liaison between County Councils and Town Councils and to request them to appoint a Litter Monitoring Officer. To date the number of local authorities who have appointed Litter Monitoring Officers has been low with just seven local authorities confirming the name of the Litter Monitoring Officer; The previous implementation survey which allowed direct contact between the Litter Monitoring Body and all local authorities may have encouraged those not implementing the system to begin the process; and Continuous telephone support given by and the LGCSB to all local authorities in relation to queries and problems regarding any aspect of the system and implementation within local authorities. Two further surveys to assess local authority implementation will be undertaken by TES Consulting Engineers in February and April Results of which will be reported to the DoELG. Page 6 of 28

10 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February Detailed Analysis of Implementation Status Local Authorities Currently Implementing the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Identification of Potential Litter Generators Commenced North Tipperary County Council Cork County Council (South) Clonmel Borough Council Athy Town Council Bray Town Council Carrick on Suir Town Council Carrickmacross Town Council Castlebar Town Council Kinsale Town Council Killarney Town Council Listowel Town Council Macroom Town Council Trim Town Council Wicklow Town Council Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete Clare County Council Cork County Council (North) Dunlaoighaire Rathdown County Council Fingal County Council Kildare County Council Laois County Council Limerick County Council Offaly County Council South Dublin County Council Wexford County Council Page 7 of 28

11 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Birr Town Council Identification of Potential Litter Generators Complete (continued) Clonakilty Town Council Cobh Town Council Dundalk Town Council Ennis Town Council Kilrush Town Council Midleton Town Council Navan Town Council New Ross Town Council Tipperary Town Council Tralee Town Council Youghal Town Council Data Entry Complete Meath County Council Monaghan County Council Dublin City Council Sligo Borough Council Wexford Borough Council Ballina Town Council Cashel Town Council Castleblaney Town Council Clones Town Council Dungarvan Town Council Enniscorthy Town Council Fermoy Town Council Monaghan Town Council Tullamore Town Council Westport Town Council Skibbereen Town Council Page 8 of 28

12 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Benchmark Litter Surveys Commenced Galway County Council Kerry County Council Kilkenny County Council Leitrim County Council Mayo County Council Cork City Council Kilkenny Borough Council Ballinasloe Town Council Carlow Town Council Cavan Town Council Survey Data Returned to Litter Monitoring Body Carlow County Council Cavan County Council Offaly County Council Waterford County Council Sligo County Council Westmeath County Council South Tipperary County Council Limerick City Council Waterford City Council Longford Town Council Page 9 of 28

13 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February Local Authorities yet to commence Implementing the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Local Authorities yet to Identify Potential Litter Generators Cork County Council (West) Donegal County Council Longford County Council Louth County Council Roscommon County Council Drogheda Borough Council Galway City Council Arklow Town Council Athlone Town Council Buncrana Town Council Bundoran Town Council Kells Town Council Letterkenny Town Council Mallow Town Council Naas Town Council Nenagh Town Council Templemore Town Council Thurles Town Council Feedback from those local authorities yet to begin implementation is detailed below; Cork Cork County Council (West) have yet to begin the implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. Staff shortages are attributed to being the main problem in implementing the system. The introduction of computerised wheelie bins has taken priority away from the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System; however the employment of an additional litter warden who will have responsibility for implementing the system has been included in the estimates for It is hoped that with this appointment that the system will be implemented in the New Year. Mallow Town Council have not begun to implement the system. Staff changeover and uncertainty relating to staff replacements has hindered progress. However Map Info (GIS software) has recently been purchased and a member of Mallow Town Council attended LGCSB training, which was held in Page 10 of 28

14 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Cork, on request. It is intended to commence implementation as soon as staff appointments have been made which is expected early Donegal Donegal County Council has not begun implementation of the system. They are experiencing difficulties with the Geodirectory, which they purchased for the purpose of identifying Potential Litter Generators. GIS staff are in the process of solving these problems and are in contact with the LGCSB. An alternative method of identifying Potential Litter Generators using GPS technology will be employed if these problems are not resolved. Buncrana Town Council has not commenced the implementation of the system. Commencement of implementation is dependent on the availability of resources. It is not scheduled to commence with the implementation of the system in the near future. Bundoran Town Council has not commenced the implementation of the system; however it has been identified as a priority and it is intended that commencement will begin in December Letterkenny Town Council has not commenced the implementation of the system. However, liaison with Donegal County Council in relation to implementing the system has begun. Staffing levels have to date impeded the commencement of implementation. However, it is hoped to begin in January Galway Galway City Council have not begun to implement the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System due primarily to problems related to staffing. There has been a changeover in staff, the environmental inspector left and at present there is only one litter warden. They have the GIS system and may consider engaging TES for additional training in order to begin the implementation of the system. Kildare Naas Town Council has not begun to implement the system. Progress in relation to commencing work on the system has been hindered by staff difficulties. In January 2002, a new Community Warden is being appointed under a new pilot scheme. One of the warden s duties will be to implement the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. Longford Longford County Council has not commenced the implementation of the system for lack of resources. received a letter from Longford County Council stating their position. This was forwarded to the Department of the Environment and Local Government on the 13 th September Page 11 of 28

15 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Louth Louth County Council has not as yet commenced the system s implementation. The main difficulty being experienced by Louth County Council is in relation to GIS staff. At the moment they do not have the relative staff to undertake the GIS component of the system. However, together with Monaghan County Council, Louth County Council have organised on site training by the LGCSB. This will take place in January Rate Collectors will undertake visual surveys in January Drogheda Borough Council Louth County Council is taking responsibility for the implementation of the system and therefore as with Louth County Council implementation of the system will commence in January Roscommon Roscommon County Council is not at present fully implementing the Litter Monitoring System, however, the GIS system is being set up and visual surveys are to begin before end December Meath Kells Town Council has not commenced implementation of the Litter Monitoring System however it plans to commence identification of potential litter generators in the near future. North Tipperary Nenagh Town Council - has not commenced the implementation of the system, there has been staff changeover within the local authority. It is unknown when exactly commencement will begin. Templemore Town Council - has not commenced the implementation of the system. This is attributed to both lack of staffing and resources. At present there is only one Clerical Officer and one part time Rate Collector. In relation to litter more time is devoted to street cleaning than litter monitoring. However, it is planned to give the Rate Collector duties in relation to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System and to work with the other Town Councils in Tipperary North Riding in January Thurles Town Council - has not commenced the implementation of the system, it is hoped to commence visual surveys in the near future however, they have stated that they do not have adequate resources. Westmeath Athlone Town Council has not commenced the implementation of the system to date however they intend to begin early in Commencement in the implementation of the system has been delayed due to staffing and resource difficulties. Athlone Town Council has arranged to meet and co operate closely with Westmeath County Council. Page 12 of 28

16 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Wicklow Arklow Town Council is aware of their responsibilities in relation to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. However, Arlow UDC has not begun implementation of the system as they are awaiting additional staff in particular technical staff to aid with the GIS component of the system. As soon as additional staff are recruited under Better Local Government, the implementation of the system will commence. This is hoped to take place early in the Page 13 of 28

17 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February PRELIMINARY LITTER MONITORNG ASSESSMENT As outlined in Section a small number of local authorities have submitted results to the Litter Monitoring Body. Detailed below are the initial findings of the analysis of these results. It should be noted that the results detailed, may not be representative of the national results. 3.1 Litter Quantification Surveys Results The purpose of Litter Quantification Survey is to assess the composition of litter. To date seven local authorities have submitted litter quantification results to the Litter Monitoring Body. Preliminary findings are represented below. The results detailed below are based on the total number of litter items counted during the surveys returned. Broad Categories of Litter Composition (December 2001) Cigarette-related Litter 67.0% Packaging Litter 15.5% Food Litter 11.1% Paper Litter 3.7% Miscellaneous Litter Items 1.5% Deleterious Litter 0.6% Plastic Litter 0.5% Bulky Litter 0.1% Figure 3.1 A graphical representation of litter composition broken down into broad categories according to results received to date (December 2001) 1. 1 Include results from Cavan County Council, Offaly County Council, Sligo County Council, Westmeath County Council, Limerick Corporation, Waterford Corporation and Longford Town Council. Page 14 of 28

18 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Detailed Analysis of Litter Composition December 2001 Cigarette boxes and wrappers 2.69% Cigarette ends Matchboxes and lighters 0.18% Matches 11.74% Bags and wrappers 2.57% Drink cups 0.30% Beverage Bottles - Alcoholic 0.36% Beverage Bottles - Non-alcoholic 0.36% Jars and other containers 0.11% Beverage Cans - Alcoholic 0.40% Beverage Cans - Non-alcoholic 0.41% Food cans 0.06% Lids (e.g. from bottles, jars) 0.15% Metal drums 0% Tin foil (not sweet wrappers) 0.36% Other metal litter items 0.20% Aeroboard 0.09% Bags 0.35% Boxes 0.03% Cardboard 0.15% Drinks cartons 0.54% Other paper packaging 1.61% Bags - shopping bags 0.75 Bags - other (e.g. fertiliser) 0.11% Bubble-wrap 0.35% Bottles 1.34% Plastic film 0.08% Plastic sheeting (e.g. silage) 0.24% Other plastic packaging 4.56% Bread/ biscuits 0.08% Chewing Gum 7.76 % Remnants of confectionery food items 0.84% Fast-food remnants 0.13% Fruit/ vegetables 0.18% Other food items 2.10% Bank slips 0.56% Flyers and posters 0.15% Letters, envelopes and cards 0.19% Magazines/ brochures 0.03% Newspapers 0.06% Receipts 0.73% Tickets (e.g. bus, lottery) 0.58% Tissues 0.95% Other paper items 0.45% Miscellaneous Litter Items 1.55% Dog fouling 0.53% Feminine hygiene products 0.03% Municipal Hazardous Waste (e.g. paint, solvents) 0.02% Nappies 0% Needles and syringes 0% Other deleterious items 0.06% Plastic items (Non Packaging) 0.46% Appliances (e.g. fridge) 0% Furniture 0.01% Household refuse in bags 0.01% Scrap cars 0% Other large items 0.12% Figure 3.2 A graphical representation of the breakdown of all litter into sub categories as contained in the results submitted to date (December 2001) Page 15 of 28

19 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Detailed Composition of Cigarette Related Litter December % 18% 4% Cigarette boxes and wrappers Cigarette ends Matchboxes and lighters 78% Matches Figure 3.3 A graphical representation of the breakdown of cigarette related litter as contained in the results submitted to date (December 2001) Detailed Composition of Packaging Litter December % 18% 19% 5% 10% Takeaway Packaging Glass Packaging Metal Packaging Paper Packaging Plastic Packaging Figure 3.4 A graphical representation of the breakdown of packaging litter as contained in the results submitted to date (December 2001) Detailed Analysis of Food Residue Litter December 2001 Bread/ biscuits 19% 1% Chewing Gum 1% 8% 2% Remnants of confectionery food items Fast-food remnants 69% Fruit/ vegetables Other food items Figure 3.5 A graphical representation of the breakdown of food residue litter as contained in the results submitted to date (December 2001) Page 16 of 28

20 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February Analysis Preliminary analysis on the seven local authorities that have submitted results show that by far the most prevalent category of litter is cigarette related. This category of litter comprises 67% of all litter surveyed. Although this category of litter may not be as obtrusive as other items of litter it is interesting to note that it is the most widely encountered category of litter. As can be seen from figure 3.1 the next most prevalent categories are food residues and packaging litter. The top three categories are further broken down into their constituent sub categories in figures 3.3, 3.4 and Litter Pollution Surveys To date Litter Pollution Survey results of seven 2 local authorities have been received. The graph below represents the preliminary findings in relation to the Litter Pollution Index (refer to Appendix One for details) for those local authorities who have submitted results Results 11.14% Analysis of Litter Pollution Surveys December % 0.25% 43.80% % Figure 3.6 A graphical representation of the Litter Pollution Index (1-5 see over page)) results received from seven local authorities (December 2001) Analysis The cleanliness of each survey site is expressed as a Litter Pollution Index, which indicates the severity and extent of the littering, observed at that location. A location with a Litter Pollution Index of 1 would 2 Results based on data received from South Tipperary County Council, Sligo County Council, Waterford County Council, Westmeath County Council, Limerick City Council, Waterford Corporation and Longford Town Council. Page 17 of 28

21 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 be free of litter pollution whereas an Index of 5 would be polluted to the extent expected after a major sporting or entertainment event. Specifically the Litter Pollution Index categories are described as 1 Unpolluted 2 Slightly Polluted 3 Moderately Polluted 4 Significantly Polluted 5 Grossly Polluted Initial analysis shows low percentage of moderate to grossly polluted survey areas. As the sample size is less than 10% of the total these results are not representative. As results are submitted and analysed conclusion regarding the extent and severity of litter pollution across the nation will become more evident. Cumulative results will be forwarded t the DoELG at regular intervals Page 18 of 28

22 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February ACTIVITIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN IN YEAR THREE The key activities to be undertaken by the key players of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System are summarised in Table 4.1 Table 4.1 Overview of Monitoring System Activities until the conclusion of contract (May 2002) Description of Activity Responsibility Envisaged Date of Completion 1 Completion of Benchmark Litter Surveys and return of results to Litter Monitoring Body Local Authorities Ongoing 2 Analysis of the Litter Survey Results. This involves the collection and analysis of the litter survey Litter Monitoring Body Ongoing. As soon as results are received by TES analyses will be carried data generated by all of the authorities. out and reported upon. 3 Report of National Results presented to DoELG Litter Monitoring Body Results will be reported to the DoELG on a regular basis. An overall 4 Reporting to the DoELG on an ongoing basis and liaison with the Steering Group via meetings and Progress Reports 5 Review of National Litter Pollution Monitoring System, based on the analysis of local authority survey data. Amendments to National Litter Pollution Monitoring System if required. 6 Ongoing liaison with the local authorities regarding queries, problem solving, information dissemination and the provision of training related to system implementation. Updating of information provided on the TES and LCCSB websites. Litter Monitoring Body Litter Monitoring Body DoELG Litter Monitoring Body assessment will be submitted by end March 2002 Ongoing End March 2002 Ongoing 7 Assessment of local authority implementation progress. Litter Monitoring Body February April 2002 Information Updates Litter Monitoring Body February 2002 Steering Group Meetings Litter Monitoring Body, DoELG 10 Directors of Services Presentation Litter Monitoring Body, DoELG April 2002 February 2002, March 2002 February Circulation of FAQ Section of the Monitoring Manual Litter Monitoring Body, January 2002 Page 19 of 28

23 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February DELIVERABLES ACHIEVED IN YEAR TWO The different activities outlined in this section have been grouped into categories, which are described in Table 5.1 Table 5.1 Categories of Activities undertaken by the Litter Monitoring Body during Development of the survey methodology and production of the Monitoring Manual and associated databases; 2. Circulation of Information Updates to all local authorities; 3. Completion of Phase I and Phase II regional meetings for all local authorities; 4. Promotional activities including the development of the TES website which contains a subsection dedicated to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System; 5. Monitoring local authority implementation of the system; 6. Review of litter abatement best practice; 7. The completion of the Litter Management Plan Assessment to the outstanding local authorities; 8. Production of Frequently Asked Questions document; 9. Compilation of case studies from around the country; and 10 The establishment of a Litter Monitoring Officer. Detailed information regarding the above items is set out in the following sections.. Page 20 of 28

24 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February Development of Survey Methodology and Production of the Monitoring Manual Monitoring Manual Timetable of Circulation An overview of the production and circulation of the monitoring manual is presented in Table 5.2. Table 5.2 Timetable of the circulation of the Monitoring Manual Circulation Item Contents Date June 2000 Section One of the Monitoring Manual A5 Plastic Folder containing Part One and Part Two of the Monitoring Manual; Floppy disk with Visual Survey Form; LGCSB Phase I software; LGCSB Phase I User Manual; and Questionnaire. March 2001 Section Two of the Monitoring Manual Part Three and Part Four of the Monitoring Manual (A5); Floppy disk containing Litter Quantification Survey Questionnaire and Results Database; LGCSB Phase II software; and LGCSB Phase II User Manual. May 2001 Section Three of the Monitoring Manual Part Five of the Monitoring Manual (A5); Floppy disk containing Litter Pollution Survey Questionnaire. September 2001 Additional mailshot Updated Litter Pollution Survey Results Database. The Monitoring Manual was circulated to local authorities in three sections as described below; SECTION ONE CIRCULATED JUNE 2000 Part One Introduction Chapter One This chapter contains a detailed background to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System providing the. Page 21 of 28

25 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 reader with information regarding the aims and objectives of the system and the philosophy governing the system. Chapter Two This section introduces the components of the systems namely the Litter Generation Potential Maps, Litter Quantification Surveys and Litter Pollution Surveys. Part Two Identification of Potential Litter Generators 3 Chapter One Detailed the methodologies required to identify potential litter generators by conducting Visual Surveys. Lists of the most commonly observed generators were compiled in consultation with the delegates to the National Litter Conference held in 1999 in Cork. Modifications to the list were made to reflect information received during trials undertaken by Carlow and Waterford County Councils. The form required for Visual Surveys was included in a disk circulated with this Section. The use of Address Databases to aid the identification of Potential Litter Generators is also described in this Chapter. SECTION TWO CIRCULATED MARCH 2001 Part Three Litter Generation Potential Maps This section of the Monitoring Manual provides information in relation to the production of Litter Generation Potential Maps. Full technical instructions for creating these maps is contained in the LGCSB Phase II User and Training Manual, which was circulated with this section of the Monitoring Manual. A CD ROM containing the software was also distributed to local authorities at this stage. Part Four Litter Quantification Survey This section of the monitoring manual details the methodology required for performing Litter Quantification Surveys. The purpose of a Litter Quantification Survey is to identify the composition of litter within designated survey areas. The data gathered during this type of survey will be used to observe trends in the composition of litter 3 Potential Litter Generator is the collective term given to premises, sites or activities which are likely to give rise to litter pollution. Examples include fast-food outlets, derelict land, tourist attractions and secondary schools.. Page 22 of 28

26 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 annually. The Excel spreadsheet which is used to store information gathered during from Litter Quantification Surveys was circulated at this time. SECTION THREE CIRCULATED MAY 2001 Part Five Litter Pollution Survey Chapter One This component of the manual details the principles governing the Litter Pollution Survey. This is a monitoring tool, which allows local authorities to determine the extent and severity of litter prevailing at representative locations across their functional areas. A Litter Pollution Survey questionnaire was designed to collect information regarding litter pollution in a concise systematic manner. The cleanliness of each site will be expressed as a Litter Pollution Index (refer to Appendix One). The results obtained from surveys will allow litter black spots to be identified and track changes in pollution levels arising from altered litter practices. Each local authority is required to conduct a minimum number of Litter Pollution Surveys within its functional area. The survey locations are chosen using the Litter Potential Generation Maps. 40% of surveys are conducted in high risk areas, 40% in random areas and 20% are performed in areas chosen at the discretion of the individual local authority. Chapter Two This section details the methodology required to conduct a Litter Pollution Survey. Instructions including photographs are presented in this Chapter. The Litter Pollution Survey Results Database (Microsoft Access) was included with this section. Comprehensive information on the survey methodologies and form is set out in Appendix One. 5.2 Information Updates The Litter Monitoring Body recognised the need to involve the authorities as much as possible in the development of the Monitoring System, in order to engender a sense of shared ownership for the methodology and for the results arising from the litter surveys. In light of this, it was agreed that the authorities should be kept as up-to-date as possible on the progress of the Monitoring System s development and implementation. To facilitate this goal, a series of Information Updates have been. Page 23 of 28

27 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 circulated to all local authorities. A summary of the Information Updates issued to date is contained in Appendix Two. The aims of these Updates are to: Provide a summary of the key activities undertaken by the Litter Monitoring Body; Address any issues arising during the system s implementation; Describe the progress of implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System; Facilitate information dissemination between local authorities. This will comprise a series of case studies or success stories from around the country. Practical information on costings, setup requirements and results will be provided, as well as contact information for the relevant local authority; and Provide additional information and request feedback as required. 5.3 Litter Monitoring Body Meetings and Presentations Regional Meetings The Litter Monitoring Body recommended that a series of Regional Meetings be held for the local authorities to assist them in the implementation of the System. Twelve meetings were held in total for city councils, county councils and borough councils. A further two were held specifically for Urban District Councils. The purpose of the meetings was to provide training in all aspects of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System, to provide local authorities with a forum for discussion and to answer questions from local authorities. During the course of the 14 meetings held all local authorities were represented at, a minimum of one meeting. Further details relating to the regional meetings are contained in Appendix Three Additional Presentations The Litter Monitoring Body was requested to present the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System to the Town Clerks Association, which they duly delivered in Monaghan on the 13 th October It was suggested at this meeting that a representative for Town Councils should be present on the Litter Monitoring Body s Steering Group. Following this Mr Brian White, Town Clerk of Dungarvan Town Council was nominated to the steering group. Following a recommendation from the Steering Group the Litter Monitoring Body presented the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System to the City and County Managers Association s Environment and Planning Committee on 15 th December Page 24 of 28

28 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February Review of Litter Management Best Practice Following the review of International Best Practice undertaken in Year 1, the Litter Monitoring Body compiled information relating to best practice in Ireland in Year 2. A full description of the findings of the research is contained Appendix Four. Specific projects or practices which are innovative and extremely effective at combating the scourge of litter have been highlighted and examples of such have been made available on the Litter Monitoring sub section of the TES website and also have been communicated to local authorities through the Information Updates. Local authorities will be asked through Information Update #4 to review/update material on the website. 5.5 Litter Monitoring Body Promotional Activities The Litter Monitoring Body published articles regarding the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System in Energy and Environment Magazine and the Engineers Journal. The launching of the TES Website, which has a dedicated section for the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System, also featured in various publications and newspapers. 5.6 Local Authority Litter Management Plan Assessment The assessment of Litter Management Plans has proved to be a very important element of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System as it provided local authorities with guidance on how they could improve litter management planning within their functional area. The majority of local authority Litter Management Plans were assessed during 2000 and reported upon in the previous Annual Report (May 2000). The remaining detailed below plans were completed and assessed in 2001: Monaghan County Council Birr Urban District Council Castleblaney Urban District Council Clones Urban District Council Monaghan Urban District Council Tullamore Urban District Council Donegal County Council are reviewing their Litter Management Plan to include Buncrana Town Council, Bundoran Town Council and Letterkenny Town Council. 5.7 Frequently Asked Questions Local authorities will receive an addendum to the Monitoring Manual detailing a number of questions, which have been asked on many occasions by local authority staff. Refer to Section 6 and Appendix Five for more details pertaining to this addition to the monitoring manual. This series of questions will also be included in the Quarter One, 2002 Information Update. The aim of the production of this is to. Page 25 of 28

29 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 further aid local authorities with the implementation of the system by clearly and simply answering questions to facilitate system set up and problem solving. 5.8 Litter Monitoring Officer The Litter Monitoring Body requested that a Litter Monitoring Officer be nominated from each county council and city council. Managers were requested to assign responsibility to a specific officer for the co-ordination of all activity on system implementation, including implementation in the Town Councils/Borough Councils in their area. It was recommended that the assignment should be at a senior administrative or technical level. In the event of the person designated the Litter Monitoring Officer being assigned to other duties, it was advised that a successor be appointed as soon as possible to ensure continuity in the post and minimise disruption to system implementation/operation. The main duties of the Litter Monitoring Officer include overseeing the following: the identification of all Potential Litter Generators within the functional area, using either a Geodirectory or visual surveys, and the inputting of the data into the GIS software package designed by the LGCSB and circulated to all local authorities the creation of Litter Generation Potential Maps according to the methods set out in the Monitoring Manual, and the carrying out of the benchmark Litter Quantification and Litter Pollution Surveys in 2001 and the follow-up surveys in 2002 and subsequent years; and the submission of the survey results to the Litter Monitoring Body, using the templates provided. The appointment of a Litter Monitoring Officer would ensure that efforts are focused more effectively on system implementation, promote better co-ordination between county councils and the Town Councils/borough councils and improve contact between and local authorities in the discharge of their respective duties under the system. To date the seven Litter Monitoring Officers have been nominated. The Litter Monitoring Body will through correspondence and upcoming Information Updates continue to encourage local authorities to nominate a Litter Monitoring Officer.. Page 26 of 28

30 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS It is vital that local authorities continue to implement the system. Local authorities receive a range of supports to assist them with system implementation and to ensure that they are in a position to perform a full set of Litter Surveys during the period May to September This encouragement is provided through frequent liaison with local authorities regarding progress to date and technical support on all aspects of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. Furthermore, local authority staff training on different aspects of the system can be provided by arrangement by the LGCSB and TES Consulting Engineers. The circulation of Information Updates and the Frequently Asked Questions addendum to the Monitoring Manual will aid local authorities to progress with the system. Further information on these supports is detailed below. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) It has been decided to compile a list of FAQs, which will be sent to all local authorities as an addendum to the Monitoring Manual and also will feature in the Information Update #4. This document will provide a quick reference to many of the questions, which TES Consulting Engineers and the LGCSB have encountered either through telephone queries or through training sessions held for local authority staff. The FAQs is reproduced in Appendix Five of this document. This will provide additional guidance for local authority staff in relation to all aspects of the system. LGCSB Technical Support LGCSB staff have been available to deal with telephone queries, training and to provide on site problem solving in relation to the GIS component of the system. This has been a vital component of success to date of the implementation of the system. The system although designed to be as user friendly as possible does from time to time, need technical experience. As the system is being implemented the availability of local authorities GIS expertise will vary and it is therefore vital that staff have the facility to consult experts. It is vital for the coming year that this technical support remains in place. As of December local authorities have yet to begin Benchmark Litter Surveys. This implies that potentially 70 local authorities may not yet have created Litter Generation Potential Maps and therefore may require assistance in doing so. On site training has given two series of regional meetings as described in Section 2.3. With the conclusion of these training sessions has made services available for those local authorities that wish to receive additional on site training in relation to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. In this way it is hoped that those who did not avail of the provided training will be able to access training if required.. Page 27 of 28

31 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 February 2002 Implementation Progress Monitoring will continue to monitor local authority progress through telephone surveys. It is intended to conduct a further two telephone surveys before May Results of these will be conveyed to the DoELG and actions will then be decided upon. Directors of Services Presentation A presentation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System will be held for the new Directors of Services. The aim of the presentation is to increase the sense of commitment to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System at a senior level of management, thus aiding progress of the system. Information Dissemination will continue to circulate information such as the Information Updates and also information requested by local authorities. It is vital for the successful implementation that information be available to those local authorities in need of assistance. TES Consulting Engineers is committed to aiding local authorities at all stages of implementation. Case Studies The Litter Monitoring Body will continue to collect case study material from local authorities and circulate it through the Information Updates. This exercise has proven to be an important aid to information sharing and problem solving within local authorities in relation to the implementation of the system. TES Website will continue to provide information and documentation regarding the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System on its website which it will update on a regular basis. TES will continue to encourage local authorities to provide information on best practice to be included on the website. Litter Monitoring Officer As described in Section 5.8, the Litter Monitoring Body will encourage local authorities to nominate a Litter Monitoring Officer in order to aid implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System in all local authorities.. Page 28 of 28

32 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 APPENDIX ONE SURVEY METHODOLOGY i

33 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 AN OVERVIEW OF SURVEY METHODOLOGY Litter Quantification Survey This accounting survey is termed the Litter Quantification Survey and a series of these surveys is undertaken once annually, as a minimum, by each authority. Once the minimum requirement has been met, the authorities may conduct additional surveys at their own discretion, as often as they require. Each survey, which takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, involves the counting of all of the litter items occurring within a 50m stretch of roadway or footpath. The minimum number of surveys required of any local authority is four whereas the maximum is 15. The results of the survey will be logged on a standardised form (see overleaf) and logged in Excel database see table 1and the national results analysed and reported upon by the Litter Monitoring Body. ii

34 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 LITTER QUANTIFICATION SURVEY SURVEY FORM DED NAME SURVEY LOCATION FROM TO SURVEY AREA TYPE Town Centre Suburban Area Beach National Route Non-National Route Additional Information WEATHER CONDITIONS (e.g. Windy, Fair, Stormy, Raining) SURVEYOR S NAME POSITION DATE DAY TIME TIME SINCE LAST CLEANSING MAJOR SOURCES OF LITTER IN AREA (e.g. specific takeaways, newsagents, schools, passer-by or passing motorists) Notes: 1. Only solid litter waste is counted, liquid spills are not included in this survey. 2. Straw, hay, silage and animal manure (with the exception of dog fouling) are not counted. 3. For chewing gum, cigarettes and matches a distance of 10m is counted the figures are then multiplied by 5 to estimate amounts for 50m Beverage cans non-alcoholic Food cans Lids (e.g. from jars) Metal drums Tin foil (not sweet wrappers) Other metal packaging items 5. Paper Packaging ( excl takeaway packaging) Aeroboard Bags Boxes Cardboard Drinks cartons Other paper packaging items 6 Plastic Packaging( excl takeaway packaging) Bags shopping Bags other (e.g. fertiliser) Bubble-wrap Bottles Plastic film Plastic sheeting (e.g. silage) Other plastic packaging 8. Deleterious Litter Items Dog fouling Feminine hygiene products Hazardous Waste (e.g. paint, solvents) Nappies Needles/ syringes Other deleterious litter 9. Large Litter Items Appliances (e.g. fridges) Furniture Household refuse in bags Abandoned cars Other large litter items 10. Non-Packaging Paper Litter Bank slips Flyers and posters iii

35 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Letters, envelopes and cards Magazines & brochures Newspapers Receipts Tickets (e.g. bus, lottery) Tissues Other paper litter (non-packaging) 11. Non-Packaging Plastic Litter Plastic Items 12. Cigarette-related Litter Items Cigarette boxes and wrappers Cigarette ends (10m) Matchboxes and lighters Matches (10m) 13. Miscellaneous Litter Miscellaneous Items 14. Fly-tipping Incidences Very Severe (lorry-load) Severe (van-load) Moderate (bin-load) Mild (less than a bin-load) 15. Fragments (Rough Estimate) Low Impact Medium Impact High Impact Bale ties Fabric Glass Metal Paper Plastic Rubber Wood Other fragments 16. Surveyor Observations a) In your opinion, is the litter observed new or old? b) Did you notice any particular distribution patterns (e.g. fast-food packaging outside a particular takeaway)? c) Please list the litter items which can be associated with a particular premises (e.g. supermarket plastic bags or takeaway wrappers)? 17. Surveyor s Signature a) Signed: b) Dated: iv

36 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Table 1 Litter Quantification Survey Results Database (MS Excel) LITTER QUANTIFICATION SURVEY RESULTS DATABASE Survey Area Details: DED Name: North City Survey Type: LQS Survey Details: Survey Location Name: e.g. Name of Thoroughfare or Beach Main Street Exact Survey Location: e.g. From 12 Church Lane to 30 Church Lane Inclusive/ From Public Toilets to Lifeguard Station Main Street Weather Conditions: e.g. windy, stormy, calm, wet Fair Date: 06/03/2001 Day: Tuesday Time: three o clock Time since last sweep: Sources of Litter: e.g. 4 hours/ 5 days 4 hours e.g. newsagents, fast-food outlet, the public Newsagent Surveyor Details: Surveyor's Name: Joe Bloggs Surveyor Comments: Position: Student e.g. Litter Warden, student, contractor Is the Litter Old or New? New Distribution of Litter? Clumped SURVEY RESULTS - LITTER COUNT LITTER TYPE DESCRIPTION LITTER COUNT % FOR Food Residues Bread/ biscuits % Chewing Gum % Remnants of confectionery food items (e.g % Fast-food remnants (e.g. burgers, chips, pizza) % Fruit/ vegetables % Other food items % Total Food Residues % Packaging Items Takeaway Packaging Bags and % Drink cups % Total Takeaway % Glass Packaging Beverage Bottles #DIV/0! Beverage Bottles #DIV/0! Jars and other #DIV/0! Total Glass 0 #DIV/0! Metal Packaging Beverage Cans % Beverage Cans % Food cans 0.00% Lids (e.g. from 0.00% Metal drums 0.00% Tin foil (not 0.00% Other metal litter 0.00% Total Metal % Paper Packaging Aeroboard 0.00% (excld takeaway packaging) Bags % Boxes 0.00% Cardboard % Drinks cartons % Other paper % Total Paper % Plastic Packaging Bags - shopping % Bags - other (e.g. 0.00% Bubble-wrap 0.00% Bottles % Plastic film 0.00% Plastic sheeting 0.00% Other plastic 0.00% Total Plastic % Total Packaging Items 28 Deleterious Litter Items Dog fouling % Feminine hygiene products 0.00% Municipal Hazardous Waste (e.g. paint, 0.00% v

37 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Nappies 0.00% Needles and syringes 0.00% Other deleterious items 0.00% Total Deleterious Litter Items % Large Litter Items Appliances (e.g. fridge) #DIV/0! (Bulky) Furniture #DIV/0! Household refuse in bags #DIV/0! Scrap cars #DIV/0! Other large items #DIV/0! Total Large Litter Items 0 #DIV/0! Paper Items (non-packaging) Bank slips % Flyers and posters 0.00% Letters, envelopes and cards % Magazines/ brochures % Newspapers 0.00% Receipts % Tickets (e.g. bus, lottery) % Tissues 0.00% Other paper items % Total Non-packaging Paper Items % Plastic Items (non-packaging) Plastic items 1 Total Non-packaging Plastic Items 1 Cigarette-related Litter Cigarette boxes and wrappers % Cigarette ends % Matchboxes and lighters % Matches % Total Cigarette-related Litter % Miscellaneous Litter Items Total Miscellaneous Litter Items 3 TOTAL NO.OF LITTER ITEMS 112 Fly-tipping Incidences Very Severe Severe Moderate Mild Total fly-tipping incidences 0 Fragments/ Small Items Bale ties Fabric Glass Metal Paper Plastic Rubber Wood Other Fragments TOTAL LITTER ITEMS SUMMARY OF SURVEY RESULTS - SURVEY 1 Low Impact Medium Impact High Impact yes yes LITTER COMPOSITION Count % of Total Packaging Litter % Cigarette-related Litter % Food Litter % Deleterious Litter 1 0.9% Bulky Litter 0 0.0% Paper Litter % Plastic Litter 1 0.9% Miscellaneous Litter Items 3 2.7% TOTAL LITTER ITEMS % Packaging Litter Composition Count % of Total Takeaway Packaging % Glass Packaging 0 0.0% Metal Packaging 2 7.1% Paper Packaging % Plastic Packaging % TOTAL PACKAGING LITTER % vi

38 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 It is a prerequisite of the system that the Litter Quantification Survey is performed in an area providing the largest sample size. The largest sample size is obtained, by surveying at the locations with the highest risk of pollution (i.e. the clusters or hotspots identified by the Litter Generation Potential Maps or known black-spot areas) and by surveying as long after the last cleansing sweep, as possible, to further increase the chances of a large sample size. A minimum of 594 Litter Quantification Surveys will be undertaken across the country, in a variety of locations including urban centres, sub urban areas, national routes and non national routes. If there is a popular beach present within the local authority s functional areas it to must be surveyed at least once. Local authorities have been advised that the surveys should be carried out evenly across the range of survey types found within their functional areas. The first ever round of these Litter Quantification Surveys are benchmark surveys. These will form the basis for comparison with all subsequent survey results. The data obtained during the surveys will be combined into statistics on a number of litter categories. For example, the percentage of the litter items which are comprised of paper, plastic, packaging and food will be documented. These data can subsequently be analysed in greater detail to allow for the identification of the sources or origin of the different litter items. In this way, the information obtained from the surveys carried out across the country will allow the authorities to identify the litter sources which are most prevalent in their specific local context, as well as to ascertain the effectiveness of their targeted anti-litter measures. Local authorities are only now beginning benchmark litter surveys, due to extensive training needs required for local authority staff and the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease, local authorities are now beginning this stage. To date 20 local authorities have begun benchmark litter surveying and ten have returned results to the Litter Monitoring Body. Litter Pollution Survey The monitoring system must also identify the distribution and extent of litter pollution nation-wide. The method employed involves the completion of a number of Litter Pollution Surveys. These surveys are effectively visual inspections of a given location to determine the pollution levels within it. A customised questionnaire (see overleaf) has been designed by the Litter Monitoring Body for the purposes of this survey, and this questionnaire requests information not only on the status of key indicator items but also on the possible causes of the litter, and the surveyor s opinion as to potential solutions. The survey area is comprised of a 50m section of path or roadside verge and each survey takes a few minutes to complete. The Litter Pollution Index of the surveys undertaken by the authorities will be calculated using a standardised formula, (the average attained using the Cleanliness rating for each survey and score for the section relating to Indicator Items) and the data sent to the Litter Monitoring Body for central analysis and documentation. The national survey results will vii

39 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 indicate the percentage of survey locations which were unpolluted, or which exhibited some level of pollution (from low to severe). A minimum of 4,057 Litter Pollution Surveys will be carried out each year (generally between the months of May and October), as shown below, with the first series of surveys comprising the Benchmark Litter Pollution Surveys against which all future survey results will be compared. Table 2 Numbers of Litter Pollution Surveys required as a minimum on an annual basis. Type of Local Authority Minimum Number of Surveys to be Completed Percentage of Total Number of Surveys Completed 1. City Councils % 2. Town Councils 1,470 36% 4. County Councils 1,842 46% ALL AUTHORITIES 4, % The numbers indicated above are the minimum requirement for the country, with the authorities having discretion to undertake additional surveys at the frequencies and locations of their choice. The national results of the Litter Pollution Surveys will be used to develop an improvement matrix for the authorities with each authority being measured only against its last series of surveys, and not against any other authority. A number of local authorities have begun to return results to the Litter Monitoring Body. These will be analysed and results collated and returned to the local authorities. viii

40 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Litter Pollution Survey Questionnaire DED NAME SURVEY LOCATION FROM TO e.g. Main Street No 1 to No 51 SURVEY AREA DESCRIPTION: Town Centre Suburban Area Beach National Route Non-National Route WEATHER CONDITIONS SURVEYOR S NAME DATE / / DAY TIME MAJOR SOURCES OF LITTER IN AREA PHOTO IDENTIFICATION # HOT SPOT RATING (if known) 1. INDICATOR ITEMS Assess the survey area for the presence or absence of the following litter items. It should be noted that although there may be other types of litter on the ground in the survey area, the assessment should be confined to the items listed below. Information on other important, unlisted litter streams observed during the survey should be included in the surveyor s comments (Section 7). Packaging Litter Plastic Packaging (incl shopping bags) Paper Packaging Takeaway Packaging Bottles/Cans Other Litter Items Household Refuse Papers/ Cardboard Dog Fouling Cigarette-related Litter Chewing Gum Food Residues Visible on Close Inspection Visible Obvious Extremely Obvious 2. SURVEY AREA CLEANLINESS RATING Please rate the cleanliness of the survey area on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 approximates the cleanliness of a freshly-swept area and 5 would be expected after a major concert, sporting event or festival etc. Survey Area Rating LITTER DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS Where is the majority of the litter to be found? Widespread Clusters Associated with Particular Premises If clusters are observed, please specify where they occur (e.g. outside Mc Grath s Takeaway): Where is the litter located within the survey area? ix

41 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Key Ranking Locations (Indicate which location is the most (Please tick important for this survey area, using a those which 1,2,3 scale where location 1 has the apply) largest accumulation of litter) Path Gully Road Grass Verge Trees/ Shrubs Adjoining Private Premises Other Locations (Please Specify): 4. LITTER BINS Number of Litter Bins in Survey Area of these number the fitted with an ash tray Number of Full or Overflowing Bins Local Authority Private 5. ANTI LITTER ACTIVITY Are Anti-Litter Advertising/ Warnings Visible? When was the last cleansing sweep? Was there evidence of private cleansing? 6. CAUSATIVE FACTORS Please tick the factors which you believe to be contributing to litter pollution in the survey area. Passing Pedestrians Bank ATM Entertainment Event Fast-food Outlet Overflowing bins Passing Motorists Fly-tipping/ Dumping Refuse Collection/ Presentation Weather Conditions Key Factors Other (Please Specify): 7. CONCLUSIONS Other comments or observations: x

42 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 APPENDIX TWO INFORMATION UPDATES xi

43 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report 2000/2001 Appendices February 2002 Summary of Information Updates Information Update #1 The first in the series of Information Updates, which was circulated April 2000, described the activities, which were undertaken in the period since the National Litter Conference of September In particular, this Information Update outlined the elements, which were incorporated into the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System as a result of the recommendations made during the National Conference. The timetable for implementation of the Monitoring System by the local authorities was provided, as is a summary of the key activities required of each authority during that implementation process. Finally, a case study on the Inter Town and Village Litter Challenge implemented by Cork County Council over the past years was presented. Information Update #2 The second newsletter was circulated to all local authorities in September The newsletter dealt predominantly with activities undertaken since April 2000 and also with topics relating to the implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. A case study from Louth County Council was included this highlighted activities such as public education and awareness campaigns undertaken by Louth County Council. Information Update #3 The third newsletter in the series was circulated to local authorities in May The newsletter provided a summary of the main activities undertaken since September A feature of this Information Update was the inclusion of a section specifically relating to examples of best practice in relation to litter abatement in Ireland. Litter prevention methods from a variety of local authorities were described. Furthermore, Waterford and Carlow County Councils prepared two case studies for inclusion in this edition of the newsletter. The case studies provided an overview of the implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System by both local authorities, including details relating to problems encountered and measures taken to solve these. xii

44 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 APPENDIX THREE REGIONAL MEETINGS xiii

45 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 An Overview of Regional Meetings The regional meetings were aimed at the local authority personnel who would be most likely to actually implement the System. Approximately 78 delegates attended the meetings the majority of which were Litter Wardens, Administrative Officers, Staff Officers and IT personnel. A further one regional meeting was held in Athlone on 27 th September 2000 to facilitate those local authorities (with the exception of the Urban District Councils) who had not been able to send delegates to the previous meetings and also those who had attended and then wished to send additional staff. The agenda for the meetings included presentations by the Monitoring Body on the background to the Monitoring System, the purpose of the identification of Potential Litter Generators and the methodology required for visual surveys. It should be noted that it had originally been intended to run training sessions on the GIS software simultaneously with the Regional Meetings. However, it soon became apparent that the majority of the authorities had not yet identified the most suitable personnel to receive the GIS training. As a result, training sessions were run separately by the LGCSB. Table 1 Overview of First Round of Regional Meetings Meeting Number Date Venue 1 6 th July 2000 Local Government Computer Services Board, Conyngham Road, Dublin 2 12 th July 2000 Waterford County Council Offices, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford 3 18 th July 2000 Monaghan County Council Motor Taxation Offices, Monaghan 4 24 th July 2000 Victoria Hotel, Victoria Place, Galway 5 27 th September 2000 Creggan Hotel, Athlone The purpose of the meetings contained in Table 1 was to introduce the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System to local authorities, to training them in the methodologies for identifying Potential Litter Generators and to allow them to mark these on the Phase One of the litter GIS. This series of regional meeting was specifically aimed at county councils, city councils and borough councils. A total of 31 local authorities attended this round of regional meetings. xiv

46 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Table 2 Timetable for Urban District Council Regional Meetings Meeting Number Date Venue 1 23 rd April 2001 Longford Arms Hotel, Longford 2 25 th April 2001 The Munster Hotel, Thurles The two meeting noted in table 2 were specially aimed at Urban District Councils. The aim of the meetings was as previously described. A total of 29 local authorities attended this series of meetings. A further seven Regional Meetings were held to train local authority staff in the methodologies required to conduct Litter Quantification Surveys and Litter Pollution Surveys. The timetable for the meetings is shown in Table 3. The majority of delegates were Litter Wardens, Administrative Officers, Staff Officers and IT personnel.. Table 3 Timetable of Second Round of Regional Meetings Meeting Number Date Venue 1 29 th May 2001 Custom House, Dublin th June 2001 County Hall, Kilkenny 3 20 th June 2001 City Hall, Cork 4 25 th June 2001 Custom House, Dublin th June 2001 City Hall, Galway 6 27 th June 2001 Aras an Chontae, Carrick on Shannon 7 31 st October 2001 Custom House, Dublin 1 The objective of the presentation by the Litter Monitoring Body was to provide a background to the Monitoring System, the methodology required for visual surveys and instruction in the methodologies required for Litter Quantification Surveys and Litter Pollution Surveys. As well as providing local authority staff with instructions in relation to successfully implementing the system, the regional meetings also provided a platform for questions to be asked in relation to specific problems encountered in the implementation of the system. xv

47 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 This series was regional meeting was aimed at all local authorities and a total of 51 local authorities attended this series of regional meetings The main concerns raised by the delegates at the Regional Meetings were as follows: Resource Considerations/Timetable The lack of resources for visual surveys and the IT/ GIS elements of the System was highlighted at each of the meetings. This related to both personnel availability and funding. In particular, it was noted that the implementation months (July-September) coincided with Annual Leave periods within the local authorities and that this would lead to some slippage as regards the implementation timetable. The Monitoring Body requested that each authority discuss resource implications with their senior management and progress the implementation activities as quickly as practicable. A small number of the delegates indicated that they would be slow in progressing the System as they did not have the resources to do so. Several other delegates confirmed that litter monitoring was low on their authority s list of priorities and that no resources had been allocated to the necessary activities by their senior management. GIS Expertise Requirement The need to train personnel in the use of the Litter Monitoring GIS software package was raised by many delegates in light of the fact that they had not, as yet, identified the most suitable persons to attend the LGCSB s training events. In this regard, training sessions were held by the LGCSB over the months of October November. This training was suitable for anyone with basic Windows familiarity and provided sufficient information to allow for the mapping of specific Potential Litter Generators onto GIS maps. In other words, the training allowed the preliminary mapping work to be completed by non-it/ GIS personnel. This will facilitate the administrative or technical departments to complete almost all of the implementation tasks autonomously (i.e. with little or no input from their IT/ GIS Sections). This should help to alleviate one of the major resource limits to the implementation of the system the need for IT/ GIS personnel to carry out the mapping activities. In light of the fact that many GIS departments work almost exclusively on planning matters, this should facilitate the speedier implementation of the Monitoring System. xvi

48 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 APPENDIX FOUR OVERVIEW OF LITTER ABATEMENT BEST PRACTICE xvii

49 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Best Practice Review Information relating to best practice was gathered by consulting with local authorities, reviewing media reports and undertaking internet searches. In order to encourage sharing information relating to Best Practice with local authorities in Ireland, has dedicated a section of its website to this subject with a specific section dedicated to Best Practice. There are six categories that the user can search under as follows Anti Litter Activities; Anti Litter Campaign; Cleansing Machinery; Litter Freephone ; Litter Receptacle; and Local Authority Services. Within each category there are a number of examples from local authorities around the country including contact details - see below. This list does not detail every example of best practice from around the country to this end TES invites all local authority to submit details regarding their efforts. It is hoped that this facility will encourage information sharing and help promote litter abatement activities. Furthermore in relation to Best Practice, Information Update #3 was dedicated to this subject including the highlights of best practice from around the country. Activity Local Authority Area Description Further Information Anti Litter Activities Ennis UDC Ennis An Anti-Litter Fast Food Liaison Group was set up by this Council in 2000, in order to combat the litter problem traditionally associated with Fast Food Restaurants. Ennis UDC Anti Litter Donegal County Co. Two Mobile Litter Units have Donegal Co. Activities Council Donegal been employed to maintain Co picnic areas, to collect discarded litter/bags along xviii

50 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 roadsides, to clean beaches and to assist at festivals. Anti Litter Activities Laois Co. Co. Co. Laois Laois Tidy Towns Federation comprising of Laois Co. Co. officials and representatives from local Tidy Town Groups has been established to increase dialogue and debate in relation to the reduction of litter across the county. Laois Co. Co Anti Litter Co. Wexford Wexford A special 'Litter Patrol' bearing Wexford Co. Activities Beaches the 'Litter Patrol' logo patrol all Co blue flag beaches from June- September Anti Litter Tipperary SR & Co. A Litter and Tourism Tipperary SR Activities NR Co. Co. Tipperary Partnership Project has been set up involving organisations Tipperary NR including TRBDI, Tipperary Energy Agency Ltd. Tipperary Leader Group, An Taisce, Tipperary Tourism Forum and North and South Tiobraid Arann ag Faire. Projects with an anti litter theme have taken place throughout the county. Anti Litter Waterford Co. Co. An Anti Litter Working Group Waterford Co. Activities Co Waterford has been established based on Co the Agenda 21 model of partnership and participation. People from different sectors of the community meet regularly to discuss how to improve the litter situation in Waterford Anti Litter Waterford City Waterford An Environmental Week was Waterford City Campaign Council & held on WLR to highlight Council & Waterford environmental issues in Waterford Co.Co. particular in relation to litter. County Council xix

51 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Anti Litter Galway County Co Galway Anti Litter Campaign using car Galway City Campaign Council stickers and billboard Council 091 advertising Anti Litter Campaign Mallow UDC Mallow Mallow UDC have also set up an Anti Litter Forum as part of a drive to clean up the town. Mallow UDC Anti Litter Carlow Council Co. Carlow Carlow County Council are Carlow County Campaign Council involved in a number of Council 0503 initiatives aimed at raising awareness in relation to litter pollution. Promotional material was distributed to schools, businesses etc. A competition was held for council personnel on what the Council can do to achieve a litter free county. The Council also wrote to businesses advising them of their responsibilities under the Litter Pollution Act. A Floral Pride Competition was organised to encourage groups to keep their areas litter free while enhancing the appearance of the built environment through providing floral displays. Anti Litter Campaign Cork Co. Co. Co. Cork The highly successful Inter Town and Village Litter Challenge have been run since 1997 in County Cork. Several participants have mentioned that the Litter Challenge helped them to attain better marks in the Litter category of the marking of the Tidy Towns and Villages Competition The main cost of the competition was the prize money. Every participant received a contribution of at least 150. The maximum prizes were Sanitary Department Cork Co. Co xx

52 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February ,400 for the overall winner in the town's category and 1,100 in the village category. The total prize money amounted to 15,500. The estimated cost of judging expenses and administration expenses was 12,000.For full description of the project see the Litter Monitoring Body's Information Update No 1 on this website. Anti Litter Campaign Ennis UDC Ennis Ennis have a number of initiatives aimed at raising awareness in relation to litter control. These include A Best Kept Schools Competition A Litter Quiz in conjunction with Clare FM was organised, in parallel with the launch of a new Litter Song. An Entente Florale and Litter Control Projects have been developed along with Ennis Civic Trust and students working on the Student Summer Jobs Scheme. Anti Litter Presentations are given to local schools by UDC staff Ennis UDC Anti Litter Campaign Laois Co. Co Co. Laois 'Litter Watch' was set up near the Laois Co. Co. Landfill Site to try and combat illegal dumping. Laois Co. Co Anti Litter Westmeath Co. Co. As part of the Westmeath anti Westmeath Campaign Co. Westmeath litter campaign, two anti litter Co. Co. 044 videos, one specifically aimed at primary school children have been produced. The main anti litter video entitled 'Litter-Why on Earth do we do it?' has been shown in a Shopping Centre and in the Railway xxi

53 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Station. The second video 'Litter warriors save the day' produced using schoolchildren, is shown in schools. Anti Litter Limerick Co.Co. Co. Anti litter message placed on Limerick Co. Campaign Limerick the back of Dunnes Stores till Co. receipts Anti Litter Limerick Co. Co. A one page anti litter Limerick Co. Campaign Co. Limerick advertisement was taken out Co. 061 in the 'Student Pages' which is distributed free to the students of Limerick. Anti Litter Limerick Co. Co. A local recycling company Limerick Co. Campaign Co. Limerick along with the County Council Co. 061 and Can-paign Ireland Ltd. co sponsored a competition to encourage students to collect cans for recycling. Over 5,000 bags of cans were collected from schools in a year of the competition Anti Litter Campaign Louth Co. Co. Co. Louth A full colour 24-page supplement highlighting issues in relation to litter control was circulated with all local newspapers. Louth Co. Co Anti Litter Campaign Meath Co. Co. Co. Meath Meath's anti litter campaign featured Environmental Education Theatre. This involved 'Down to Earth Theatre Company' visiting 22 schools, incorporating litter awareness in their play 'Bin there, dump that'. Meath Co. Co Anti Litter Monaghan Co. Co. As part of an on-going litter Monaghan Co. Campaign Co. Monaghan awareness campaign a four Co. page newsletter was published xxii

54 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 and distributed with the local newspaper the Northern Standard, prior to the National Spring Clean Week. Anti Litter Wexford Co. Co. Free entry to the Wexford Co. Wexford Co. Campaign Co. Wexford Co. landfill for community Co groups participating in local clean-ups Anti Litter Wexford Co. Co. Included in the County Wexford Co. Campaign Co. Wexford Council's anti litter campaign a Co puppet theatre/seven foot bin with the local street theatre group Bui Bolg was developed. The 'bin' patrolled' the main streets of the larger towns and also visited schools in the area. Anti Litter Wexford Co. Co. As part of the County Council's Wexford Co. Campaign Co. Wexford anti litter measures an anti Co litter radio advert has been developed with a local school. Anti Litter Tipperary SR South The County Council along with Tipperary SR Campaign Co. Co. Tipperary a recycling company jointly Co. Co. 052 sponsored a hugely successful Schools Can Recycling Competition. Anti Litter Tipperary SR Clonmel Anti litter advertising was Tipperary SR Campaign Co. Co. placed on the back of Co. Co. 052 Superquinn and Dunnes Stores receipts in Clonmel Anti Litter Waterford Co. Co. Waterford Co. Co have Waterford Co. Campaign Co Waterford organised exhibits at local Co agricultural shows, libraries etc. in order to heighten public awareness. Anti Litter Westmeath Co. Mullingar Westmeath County Council Westmeath xxiii

55 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Campaign Co. have devised an innovative anti-litter measure with the announcement of the first Litter Free Zone, which was launched in Mullingar. The area is highlighted using banner type flags. Thirteen poles used for summer baskets have a specially designed triangular sign again highlighting the 'Litter Free Zone' Co. Co Anti Litter Campaign Westport UDC Westport As part of an anti litter schools campaign, Junior Litter Wardens have been appointed. Each pupil was assigned to one of three groups representing their class, each week the groups had to report on the work carried out. A cash prize went to the best group project. Westport UDC Anti Litter Dublin City North A 'CLEAN CHARTER' is being Dublin City Campaign Council Inner City introduced to the North Inner Council Dublin City Area Restaurants will have 4300 to wash outside their premises as well as sweeping up the litter. Litter bins on the street area to be kept clean throughout the day. The granite paving will be washed down once a week. Surface drains to be jet washed once a week. A graffiti watch. Refuse collection cannot be put on the streets until the shops are closed for the night. Shopkeepers to be encouraged to keep frontage litter free and windows and doors clean. Vans making deliveries will have to have clean tyres and make sure not to leak oil on the street. xxiv

56 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Anti Litter Campaign Killarney UDC Killarney Garage owners will be supplied with bins where tourist can leave rubbish at 1 a bag instead of filling litter bins which leads to littering. These bins are collected once a week. Killarney UDC Anti Litter Dublin City North Partnership approach to litter Dublin City Campaign Council Inner City management. Gardai, local Council businesses, community groups 4300 and schools are all working together to combat litter. The highlights of the initiative are: The provision of a graffiti removal service The distribution of an information leaflet to all residents. Visits by an environmental officer to all schools in the area A schools competition to raise awareness of litter A once off junk collection service to remove bulky items from homes Two new bottle banks at Summerhill and Clonliffe Road A once off collection of hazardous waste such as batteries, paints and solvents A street washing machine and chewing gum removal service. Anti Litter Campaign Ballina UDC Ballina One of the anti litter measures Ballina UDC has employed is the creation of a Litter Free Zone. A component of the scheme involved students carrying out litter awareness surveys and a Litter Awareness Campaign Ballina UDC Anti Litter Wicklow County Co. An Environmental Quality Wicklow Co.Co Campaign Council Wicklow Award has been developed as part of Wicklow's anti-litter campaign. The award will be given to community groups xxv

57 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 that meet necessary requirements. To be eligible a Litter Task Force must be established which will assess the impact of litter on the local area. Following this each community will prepare a litter action plan based on achievable targets for tackling litter in their community. Cleansing Louth County Co Louth Louth Leader II and Louth Louth Co. Co. Machinery Council County Council have jointly Environment funded the county's first beach Section 042 cleaning machine. The machine is attached to a tractor and combs through the sands picking up litter. Cleansing Tipperary UDC Tipperary Tipperary UDC have purchased Tipperary UDC Machinery Town a gum buster machine and is presently in use. Cleansing Wicklow Co. Wicklow A 'Litter Master' litter picking Wicklow Co. Machinery Co. machine was purchased in Co The council also engaged the services of a private litter firm International Investigations Ireland Ltd. Litter Clare County Co. Clare A Freephone has been set up Clare County Freephone Council allowing the public to report Council 065 illegal dumping Litter Clare County Co. Clare A special Freephone service Clare County Freephone Council has been running allowing the Council 065 public to report incidents of littering. Litter Dublin City Dublin Dublin Corporation have set up Dublin Freephone Council a freephone for the public to Corporation 01 report littering, fly tipping and graffiti. xxvi

58 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Litter Receptacles Arklow UDC Arklow Arklow UDC have replaced the open litter bins by covered bins to prevent litter removal by wind and dogs. Arklow UDC Litter Receptacles Ennis UDC Ennis A litter bin replacement programme is being implemented. The aim is to improve the capacity and visibility of the litter bins. Plastic bins are being replaced by cast iron bins with cigarette end and chewing gum receptacles. Ennis UDC Litter Cork City Cork 96% of businesses and homes Cork City Receptacles Council have switched to the use of Council 021 wheelie bins Litter Cork County Carrigaline New custom made receptacles Carrigaline Receptacles Council specially designed for chewing Area County gum and cigarette butts are Office being triailed in Carrigaline. Local Clare County Co Clare Extra litter wardens have been Clare County Authority Council employed for the Summer Council 065 Services months in seaside resorts Local Galway City Galway Three new large sucker Galway City Authority Council City machines sweep areas of the Council 091 Services city on a daily basis. Also Galway City Council supplied reusable cotton shopping bags to cut back on the use of plastic bags. Local Fingal County North Graffiti removal equipment has Fingal County Authority Council County been purchased. Malahide has Council 01 Services Dublin a dedicated green machine also a trial by Gumbusters Ltd. has taken place in Malahide xxvii

59 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Town Centre. Local Authority Services Ballina UDC Ballina A new wheelie bin refuse collection service is being introduced. A road sweeper was also purchased to alleviate litter in the town. Ballina UDC Local Authority Services Wicklow UDC Wicklow The prom has been given extra bins extra bin collections and extra sweeping. A Litter Task Force has been set up to combat litter in the area. Wicklow UDC Name and Dublin City Dublin Newspaper advertisements Dublin City Shame Council naming prosecuted litter Council offenders Name and Clare County Co Clare Litter offenders are now being Clare County Shame Council named on radio Council Pooper Scooper Scheme Meath Co. Co. Meath Each registered dog owner in the county received two poop scoops for their dogs Meath Co. Co Pooper South Co. A Pooper Scooper Campaign DunLaoighaire- DunLaoighaire- Scooper Rathdown Dublin has been introduced to combat Rathdown Co. Scheme County Council the scourge of dog fouling Co Pooper Limerick City Limerick Pooper-scoopers are being Limerick City Scooper Council made available to dog owners Council 061 Scheme free of charge in local shops in Limerick. Special bins are being provided and will be emptied by local authority workers in the course of normal bins collections. Pooper Scooper Ennis UDC Ennis Pooper-scoops are being given away free of charge through Ennis UDC xxviii

60 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Scheme local veterinary clinics and the UDC offices. Recycling Limerick Co. Co. A local recycling company, who Limerick Co. Co. Limerick collect scrap metal, arranged Co. 061 that the school who got the most authorisations to remove scrap vehicles won a Personal Computer. Over one hundred cars were removed from the Co. Limerick countryside as a result of the competition. Recycling Carlow Co. Co. Co. Carlow A 'cash for cans' scheme sponsored by the Council encouraged the collection of cans from schools. Carlow Co. Co Recycling Mallow UDC Mallow Mallow UDC have purchased a motorised street sweeper which cleans the footpath as well as sucking up litter. Mallow UDC Recycling Westport UDC Westport A Pay as you Use compactor was installed next to the Rehab bottle bank. Westport UDC Recycling Bandon Bag for Life Campaign: A local supermarket have begun to replace plastic bags with reusable bags in order to reduce littering of plastic bags. xxix

61 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 APPENDIX FIVE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS xxx

62 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Frequently Asked Questions This addendum to the Monitoring Manual has been compiled in order to provide an easy point of reference to many of the most frequently asked questions encountered by the Litter Monitoring Body during regional meetings and through technical support queries regarding system implementation an problem solving. 1 General Information 1.1 What is the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System? The National Litter Pollution Monitoring System is a self-monitoring system, which may be used as an important decision making tool within local authorities. The main purpose of the Monitoring System is to enable the authorities to generate accurate and reliable statistics relating to litter pollution levels in their own functional areas. 1.2 What information will be gathered from litter monitoring? The severity and extent of litter pollution across the country; The manner in which levels of litter change from location to location, and over time; The most likely sources and causes of the litter; and The locations of litter black-spots. 1.3 What are the stages involved in implementing the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System? There are three phases involved in the implementation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System; Set Up Phase Identify Potential Litter Generators; Input data from Visual Surveys into Litter GIS software; Plot the Potential Litter Generators onto digital maps; and Produce Litter Generation Potential Map using Litter Monitoring GIS software. Benchmark Phase Consult Appendix Five and Appendix Six of the Monitoring Manual to identify the number of Litter Quantification Surveys and Litter Pollution Surveys required; From the Litter Generation Potential Map identify survey areas; 40% are to be performed in high risk areas, 40% are chosen randomly using the GIS software and 20% are chosen by the local authority. Carry out surveys by end September each year; xxxi

63 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Enter the results in the Litter Quantification Survey Results database (MS Excel) and the Litter Pollution Survey Results Database (MS Access); and Return the results to the Litter Monitoring Body. Survey Phase On an annual basis repeat the steps detailed in Benchmark Phase. 1.4 Where can I access information relating to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System? If you require assistance regarding the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System you can contact the Litter Monitoring Body at Unit 4B/5 Blanchardstown Corporate Park Blanchardstown Dublin 15 Tel Fax laura.scanlan@tesltd.ie There is also a section dedicated to the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System on TES Consulting Engineers website 1.5 Is training available to local authority staff? Training in relation other GIS component of the system is available on request from the LGCSB contact Deirdre Galvin for details. Training in all other aspects of the system is available from by arrangement. For details contact the above (see 1.5). 2 Set Up Phase 2.1 What is a Litter Generation Potential Map? Litter Generation Potential Maps are colour-coded GIS maps, which identify clusters or hotspots of premises, which are traditionally associated with litter pollution. These maps are xxxii

64 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 created using specially designed GIS software. The maps will be used to choose survey areas for Litter Quantification Surveys and Litter Pollution Surveys. Not only will the maps be use for this purpose but they may also be used to map other important aspects of the Litter management System including litter bin location, cleansing and litter warden routes, premises which have been subject of litter prosecutions, the location of areas which have scored particularly poor in Litter Pollution Surveys and the locations of Litter Control areas. 2.2 What is a Potential Litter Generator? Potential Litter Generator is the collective term given to premises, sites or activities, which are likely to give rise to litter pollution. Examples include fast-food outlets, derelict land, tourist attractions and secondary schools. 2.3 What are the different types of Potential Litter Generators? Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 comprised of Generators, which are known or suspected to be potentially highly polluting; comprised of Generators, which present a considerable risk of potential litter pollution but where the pollution arising is likely to be less severe than that observed with Class 1 Generators. These are termed potentially moderately polluting; and comprised of temporary, seasonal or sporadic Generators. 2.4 How do I decide what class a Potential Litter Generator should be? There are three lists found within the Monitoring Manual (Part Two, Chapter One, pink section). Contained within each list are a number of categories of Potential Litter Generators. The surveyor should decide using these lists, which Class a Generator falls into. If the category of a particular generator is not listed it should be categorised as Miscellaneous and the surveyor should assign the Class on the potential that that generator has to create litter. If in doubt the surveyor may consult with the Litter Monitoring Body for clarification. It is important to note that the Class is the important factor as it is the basis on which the GIS software operates. The assigning of individual Potential Litter Generators to a particular category is not as important as assigning the initial Class. 2.5 How do I identify the Potential Litter Generators within my functional area? There are a number of ways this can be done. Some local authorities have decided to purchase an address database, some have identified all the potential generators by Visual Surveys and some local authorities have used various lists such as rates lists etc. to aid the identification of the Potential Litter generators within the their functional areas. xxxiii

65 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February What is the difference between a site and a building? A site is a Potential Generator, which may lead to litter which cannot be directly linked to a specific permanent building or group of buildings. Examples include riverside walks, scenic locations, most litter blackspots and fly-tipping areas, litter-bins, stretches of road, canal or river, and lay-bys. A building, on the other hand, as the name suggests, refers to a structure, which may directly or indirectly lead to littering. 2.7 What is a multiple generator? Where more than one Generator is identified at a single location, it is recommended that the location be classified according to the most significant Generator in the grouping. For example, a building containing a newsagent (Class One), a pub (Class Two) and associated with petrol pumps (Class Two) would be recorded as a Class One Generator. 2.8 What is A Visual Survey? A visual survey involves a surveyor logging litter generators on a map and recording the detail on the Visual Survey Form. A detailed methodology is given in Section 1.6 of the Monitoring Manual. 3. Litter Quantification Surveys 3.1 What is a Litter Quantification Survey? The Litter Quantification Survey is a monitoring tool involving a litter item counting exercise, which assesses the origin and type of litter pollution prevailing in a 50m stretch of an authority s area. 3.2 When and where do I conduct Litter Quantification Surveys? It is important for the Litter Quantification Survey to select an area, with a large sample size i.e. contains a substantial amount of litter. Local knowledge will aid this decision. It is also recommended that you chose a time as long after the last cleansing sweep as possible. A detailed description of the methodology required for the Litter Quantification Survey is contained in Part Four of the Monitoring Manual. 3.3 How many Litter Quantification Surveys does each local authority have to do? Each local authority has been prescribed a minimum number of surveys, which are required. These are contained in Appendix Five of the Monitoring Manual. xxxiv

66 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February Litter Pollution Surveys 4.1 What is a Litter Pollution Survey? Litter Pollution Surveys are surveys where the presence or absence of litter pollution on a given day and at a given location is assessed by a visual inspection. It involves a visual inspection of a 50m stretch of footpath to determine the extent and severity of any litter pollution observed. 4.2 Where should I do the Litter Pollution Surveys? Each local authority is asked to perform a minimum number of Litter Pollution Surveys within their functional area. You are asked to sample in the following areas; High Risk Areas these location are highlighted by the GIS as areas which have the greatest potential to create litter. Forty of Litter Pollution Surveys are performed in these areas. One should choose enough hot spots to give a geographical spread of Litter Pollution Surveys. In other words if you have a number of hot spots within you functional area, you should choose to perform surveys in a number of different clusters; Random Survey Areas these locations are surveyed during the Litter Pollution Surveys to ensure that representative coverage of each authority s area is obtained. They are identified using a random selection tool developed as part of the LGCSB Litter Monitoring GIS Package. 40% of Litter Pollution Surveys are performed in random areas; and 20% of surveys are chosen at the discretion of the local authority. These may be known black spot areas or maybe areas, which may warrant examination due to, altered litter abatement practices. 4.3 When should Litter Pollution Surveys be done? The sampling period is from May to September on an annual basis. The surveys should be spread out evenly across the months. Furthermore one should spread the time of the surveys out in order to track changes in pollution levels from day to day and also at different time of the day. In other words surveys should be done on different days at weekends as well as weekdays if possible. Also the supervisor should ensure that the surveys are done at different times of the day. 4.4 Who should carry our litter surveys? Litter Wardens have been chosen as the most appropriate personnel to carry out litter surveys. However the system has been designed to allow any person familiar with the survey xxxv

67 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 methodologies to be able to perform litter-monitoring surveys. The only pre-requirement is that they familiarise themselves with methodologies described in the Monitoring Manual 5 Litter Monitoring GIS 5.1 Who do I contact if I have any queries in relation to the Litter Monitoring GIS software? The Local Authorities should contact Deirdre Galvin at the Local Government Computer Services Board. dgalvin@lgcsb.ie Tel: (01) What software is needed before we can install Phase 1 of the system? A minimum of MapInfo version 5.5 is needed before the Litter Monitoring GIS can be installed. MapInfo can be purchased from: GAMMA 14 Clanwilliam Square Lower Grand Canal Street Dublin 2 Tel: (01) ESBI Computing Stephen s Court St. Stephen s Green Dublin 2 Tel: (01) However MapInfo is not needed to set up the Data Entry module in phase Where do we obtain the OS (Ordnance Survey) maps? In some cases the local authority may already have the OS maps in another department e.g. the Engineering Dept., if not they can be obtained from: Digital Sales, Ordnance Survey Ireland, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 Tel: (01) xxxvi

68 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Fax: (01) What scale OS maps should be used? Preferably vector 1:1000 and vector 1:2500 should be used but in some cases local authorities have used raster 6-inch OS maps or the Discovery Series (1:50,000). 5.5 Will there be any further training courses? If a Local Authority wishes to go on a training course they should contact Deirdre Galvin at the Local Government Computer Services Board. dgalvin@lgcsb.ie Tel: (01) When the potential litter generators have been plotted for the entire county is it possible to select only those generators applicable to the Town Council in order to locate random survey areas? Yes, the following steps should be taken. Using Windows Explorer create a new folder called UDC. Open the Litter GIS Module and select the DEDs within the functional area using the following icon: on the Litter GIS System toolbar. Select the File Save Copy As menu option on the MapInfo toolbar Click on Selection and click on Save As. Call the new file ded_area and click on Save. Select the File Open Table menu option on the MapInfo toolbar and open ded_area. Select the Query Select menu option on the MapInfo toolbar Select records from the table ded_area. Click off Browse Results and Click OK. Select the Query SQL Select menu option on the MapInfo toolbar. The SQL Select window opens, select the options as shown below xxxvii

69 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System Annual Report February 2002 Click OK. Select the File Save Copy As menu option on the MapInfo toolbar. Call the new file Litter. Select the File Configure System menu option on the Litter GIS System toolbar. Set up the location of the new DED file and the new litter object file xxxviii