Some of Northern Ireland’s busiest streets are about to get a much-needed clean-up – and it’s all thanks to a UK-wide initiative targeting one of the most stubborn forms of litter: chewing gum.

This year, five local councils across Northern Ireland will share £132,190.50 in funding from the Chewing Gum Task Force, a collaboration between chewing gum manufacturers, all UK governments, and environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. The aim – to blitz sticky gum from pavements and stop it coming back.

Who’s Getting Funded in 2025?

The following councils will receive funding for street cleansing and behavioural prevention campaigns:

• Derry City and Strabane District Council – £27,500
• Fermanagh & Omagh District Council – £27,500
• Mid and East Antrim Borough Council – £22,190*
• Mid Ulster District Council – £27,500
• Ards and North Down Borough Council – £27,500

*Mid and East Antrim’s funding reflects the amount requested in their application.

More Than Just a Clean-Up

The scheme doesn’t just scrub streets – it helps change behaviour. Councils will receive bespoke prevention packages, including brightly coloured signage and on-the-ground engagement campaigns that remind people to bin their gum.

Gum litter is the second most common type of litter worldwide and removing it can cost up to £1.50 per squared metre. This targeted support helps reduce those costs and keep public spaces clean and welcoming.

Big Results, Bigger Impact

Since launching in 2021, the Chewing Gum Task Force-funded by industry giants like Mars Wrigley and Perfetti Van Melle-has committed £10 million over five years to tackling gum pollution across the UK.

And it’s working:

In 2024, councils cleaned over 500,000 m²-about the area of 400 Olympic swimming pools!

James McMullan from Environmental Resources Policy Division’s Producer Responsibility Team said:

“The continued support from the Chewing Gum Task Force empowers local councils to take direct, effective action against this persistent form of litter.

This initiative is a powerful example of how government, industry, and local authorities can collaborate to deliver visible environmental improvements for our communities.

By addressing this long-standing environmental challenge, we are helping to make Northern Ireland cleaner, greener, and more welcoming for residents and visitors alike.”

About the Task Force

Administered by Keep Britain Tidy, the Chewing Gum Task Force unites local authorities, government, and industry in a shared goal: less litter, cleaner streets, and stronger communities.

Learn More

For more information about the Chewing Gum Task Force and how it’s transforming public spaces across the UK visit: www.keepbritaintidy.org