Hobsons Bay City Council is helping local businesses to reduce cigarette litter by distributing free windproof ashtrays.
Located on the northern end of Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne, the area is at immediate risk of cigarette butts entering local waterways. New smoking laws introduced in July this year have increased this threat, with more smokers moving outdoors to smoke. To address this, Council recently adopted a footpath trading code of practice, which includes a requirement for outdoor dining areas to include windproof ashtrays for use by patrons. All businesses that registered outdoor dining tables under the new code of practice received the windproof ashtrays and information to help reduce litter.
As a result, approximately 400 windproof ashtrays were distributed to businesses across Hobsons Bay.
Chair of Hobsons Bay’s Sustainable Environment Advisory Group, Councillor Angela Altair, said the provision of the ashtrays will help ensure a litter free environment for diners and pedestrians.
“Cigarette butts contribute to 56 per cent of litter in Australia, with a large proportion ending up in our waterways and causing significant environmental damage,” she said. “We must do everything we can to reduce this alarming statistic.
“By providing windproof ashtrays to businesses, Council is demonstrating that we are determined to work together with the community to tackle our environmental issues.”
Hobsons Bay Mayor, Councillor Leigh Hardinge, encouraged business owners and customers to do their part in reducing cigarette litter.
“Everyone can assist by making sure they use the ashtrays and bins provided to dispose of litter,” he said. “It’s a classic win–win situation, as it will help businesses reduce litter and cleanup costs while providing the customer and pedestrians with a more pleasing litter free environment.”
For further information contact Debbie Wilson at Hobsons Bay City Council on (03) 9932 1144.
