Fast Food Litter: A Growing Concern in Carmarthenshire

Fast food litter is not just an eyesore; it has a significant impact on our environment and community. Each year, we spends substantial resources cleaning up litter from our streets, parks, and public spaces. By understanding the implications of littering and the associated costs, we can work together to foster a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Why You Could Be Fined for Littering

Improper disposal of fast food packaging can result in significant fines. All littering offences are subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £125, payable within 14 days. If payment is made within 10 days, the fine is reduced to £95. Failure to pay may escalate the matter to Magistrates Court, where fines can reach a maximum of £2,500 if found guilty.

What is Litter?

Litter includes any item disposed of improperly, from small items such as cigarette butts and food wrappers to larger items like refuse bags. Every piece of litter has a lasting impact on our shared spaces and wildlife.

The Environmental Impact of Fast Food Litter

Fast food litter contributes to significant environmental issues:

Pollution: Fast food packaging waste contributes to pollution, litter, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Wildlife Harm: Items like plastic bags and six-pack rings can entangle or injure animals or be mistaken for food, impacting local wildlife and their habitats.

Ocean Plastic: Fast food packaging accounts for 88% of the world’s coastline litter.

Landfills: Fast food waste contributes to the overuse of landfills, taking years to degrade and causing further harm to wildlife.

Additionally, food that is carelessly dropped—whether it be half-eaten burgers, chips, or apple cores—can attract pests such as pigeons and vermin, creating further challenges for our communities.

Challenges of Roadside Litter Collection

Collecting roadside litter, particularly fast food packaging, presents significant challenges for local authorities. Cleaning operations often lead to road closures and traffic congestion, which can negatively impact local businesses. Complaints from businesses regarding deteriorating road conditions and congestion are common, as these issues adversely affect their operational efficiency.

In Wales, trunk roads and motorways are managed by the Highways Agency under the Welsh Government, while local authorities are responsible for the remaining roads. However, roadside litter poses particular difficulties due to health and safety risks from high-speed traffic. Cleaning efforts may require lane closures, crash barriers, and additional signage, significantly increasing operational costs. According to Clean Up Britain, councils may pay as much as £10 for every £1 spent on litter clearance due to health and safety compliance requirements.

In a time of severe budget restrictions, it becomes increasingly unfeasible for local authorities to maintain regular litter collection. The burden of managing litter often falls on community groups and volunteers, who often lack the necessary support or policy framework to tackle the issue effectively.

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Improper waste disposal harms our local environment, affects wildlife, and diminishes the quality of life for all residents and visitors. By disposing of waste responsibly, we can work together to create a cleaner, greener Carmarthenshire.