Naas Dethroned As Maynooth Secures Top Spot In National Litter Survey

Maynooth University leads the way in town's litter-free success

Maynooth has claimed the top spot in the final litter survey of 2023 conducted by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).

The town surpassed 40 other towns and cities nationwide, including the previous winner, Naas, which secured the 11th spot and was still deemed “Cleaner than European norms.”

The survey, spanning two decades of observations, revealed that Maynooth achieved a level of cleanliness unprecedented in over 20 years.

All sites in Maynooth received the top litter grade, a remarkable accomplishment commended by An Taisce.

Some notable areas in Maynooth singled out for praise include Maynooth University, described as exceptionally well presented and maintained with an absence of litter, St. Patrick’s College, Carton Park/Avenue, and the Main Street.

Naas, although displaced from the top spot, was recognised for being “Cleaner than European norms,” with four moderately littered sites contributing to its 11th position.

Notable improvements were observed at locations such as Millennium Park, Morell Road/Lawns residential area, and the Recycle/Bring Facility at Tesco on Monread Road.

The IBAL anticipates that the impending Deposit Return Scheme, set to be introduced next month, will act as a game-changer in maintaining cleanliness levels. The scheme requires consumers to pay a deposit on cans and plastic bottles, refundable upon return.

IBAL believes this initiative will significantly reduce litter, similar to the impact of the plastic bag levy.

Conor Horgan of IBAL expressed concern over the rise in coffee cup litter, nearing peak-Covid levels.

With coffee cups found at over 30% of surveyed sites, IBAL emphasizes the need for a coffee cup levy to address this issue.

Killarney's successful ban on single-use cups last year is cited as an example of effective community-driven action.

While overall litter levels increased slightly nationwide, over 60% of towns surveyed in 2023 were deemed clean. Maynooth edged out Mallow and a much-improved Sligo to be crowned the cleanest town.

Waterford retained its title as the cleanest city, ahead of Galway, with Cork City Centre improving to ‘moderately littered,’ while Dublin and Limerick were labeled ‘littered.’

In response to the rise in disposable vapes, found in more than 10% of surveyed sites, the IBAL emphasises the need for continued efforts to address emerging sources of litter.

The Cathaoirleach of Clane/Maynooth Municipal District, Tim Durkin, will be presented with the Dr. Tom Cavanagh Memorial Trophy at noon today in Court House Square, Main St, Maynooth. This marks the 21st anniversary of the IBAL Anti-Litter League.

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