Skip to main content

A NSW Government website

The Dirty Dozen

What are the most littered items in NSW?

Based on the 2020 Key Littered Items Study33, the following items were the most littered items found in NSW estuaries.

By item:

  • confectionery wrappers and snacks – 19.7%
  • straws – 10.55%
  • food packaging – 5.84%
  • plastic bags – 3.76%
  • beverage container lids – 3.75%
  • cigarette butts – 3.61%
Litter items pie chart

By volume:

  • food packaging – 14.71%
  • water bottles – 11.15%
  • soft drink cans – 4.87%
  • personal care Items – 4.22%
  • beer bottles – 4.16%
  • plastic cups – 3.55%
Litter items by volume pie chart

How we capture litter data

NSW Litter Data Framework

The NSW Government’s Litter Data Framework is a comprehensive data program that cover many dimensions of the litter journey.
Blue Arrow

NSW Environment Protection Authority logo

Top of page Back to top