These are not our figures

When we say we have “independent figures”, we mean it. These results are reported by our customers and by DEFRA, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

DEFRA/Chewing Gum Action Group trial results

In March 2007, DEFRA’s Chewing Gum Action Group published the results of a six month chewing gum reduction trial run in 2006 with 15 local authorities around the UK.

The results showed that the Gummy Bins® chewing gum disposal and recycling system at Solihull Council was the most effective in the trial. It reduced chewing gum litter by 72% over a six month period in 2006, compared to an average reduction of 37%. Click here to view the DEFRA press release.

Our customers’ figures

Local councils are at the forefront of the chewing gum problem, tackling a tide of unhygienic and unsightly waste chewing gum on a daily basis. These are the findings of three councils on the success of their waste gum collection schemes.

Dudley MBC was the first council to install the Gummy Bins®’ chewing gum disposal and recycling system in June 2006. Prior to the introduction of the scheme, 2,253 deposits were recorded in nine specific town centre locations. The areas were then cleaned as thoroughly as possible before the installation of 50 Gummy Street® bins. 17 weeks later, only 86 new chewing gum deposits were found in the same nine locations; a dramatic reduction on previous levels.

Rochdale Town Centre Management installed 27 bins in June 2006 and recorded 2,267 pieces after seven weeks – an average of 324 pieces per week.

Fife Council installed 50 bins in August 2006. In the first month, 1,800 pieces of sticky, disgusting waste gum were recorded – an average of 450 pieces per week. Assuming collection rates continue, the total annual saving in St Andrews is estimated at £16,700. Not to be sniffed at!