Clean Coasts calls on Leitrim homes to think before they pour this Christmas

Clean Coasts, has launched a “Think Before You Pour” campaign this Christmas to tackle the ongoing issue of fats, oils, and greases (FOGs) being poured down sinks in counties like Leitrim.

The campaign, supported by TV presenter and food enthusiast Cassie Stokes, aims to educate residents about the environmental and infrastructural damage caused by improper disposal of FOGs.

FOGs, when poured down the sink, can cause expensive blockages in our home plumbing, pipes and wastewater networks leading to sewage overflows that can pollute our rivers, beaches, and oceans. 

“This Christmas, let’s reduce the number of blockages that lead to wastewater backups, sewage overflows, and environmental pollution. We all have a role to play in protecting our homes, our communities, and our beautiful natural spaces. So, please, let’s keep our kitchen sinks fat-free – and remember to ‘Think Before You Pour’,” said Mary Hussey, Wastewater Regional Operations Senior Manager at Uisce Éireann, emphasising the importance of the initiative.

The campaign focuses on simple steps to prevent blockages: cool cooking fats, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the bin. This practice not only reduces costly plumbing issues but also prevents the formation of “fatbergs,” which Uisce Éireann clears from wastewater systems over 2,000 times each month.

This initiative aligns with growing public awareness, as recent surveys reveal a decrease in the number of people pouring FOGs down the drain, dropping from 44% in 2018 to 36% today.

With widespread support, the campaign hopes to protect local waterways and preserve Leitrim’s natural beauty this festive season.

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