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Bahrain may soon see specially designed containers for used chewing gum placed across public areas, as officials move to address what they describe as a persistent, costly and sticky litter problem.
The proposal is being led by Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif, who says improper gum disposal has become an environmental and civic nuisance that requires immediate action.
“Used chewing gum is sticking to walls, pavements, chairs and tables everywhere,” Mr Abdullatif said. “We need a practical solution that encourages people to dispose of gum properly rather than treating public spaces as ashtrays or waste bins.”
Unlike food waste or natural materials, modern chewing gum is largely made of synthetic, non-biodegradable polymers – similar to plastic.
Sticky problem around the world
It does not rot or decompose biologically. Instead, it hardens, cracks and eventually breaks into microplastics over years or even centuries.
Environmental studies note that gum can take between five and 1,000 years to degrade, depending on conditions.
In the meantime, it sticks to sidewalks, building exteriors and public furniture, creating an eyesore and costing municipalities significant sums to clean off.
Mr Abdullatif
“People don’t realise that gum is essentially a form of plastic,” Mr Abdullatif added. “When it’s thrown on the ground, it stays there – and the cost of scraping it off every day is huge.”
The initiative comes amid growing discussions about whether Bahrain should consider adopting stricter rules similar to measures taken elsewhere in the region and internationally.
“Our goal is not to ban chewing gum,” Mr Abdullatif emphasised. “Our goal is to protect the environment, reduce cleanup costs and keep Bahrain’s public spaces clean.”
Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah believes Bahrain can learn both from the UAE and from Singapore – the latter known worldwide for its stringent chewing gum laws.
Singapore famously banned the importation, sale and manufacture of chewing gum in 1992 after widespread vandalism and littering, including incidents where gum was used to jam MRT train doors. While possession of gum is not illegal, failure to declare quantities at customs or unauthorised importation can result in steep fines.
Mr Tarradah
“The situation in Bahrain is not yet at Singapore’s level, but the bad habits are widespread,” Mr Tarradah said. “We see gum stuck under chairs, buried in ashtrays, even mixed with food waste.”
He added that while a total ban – like Singapore’s – is not under consideration, regulatory steps should be studied, especially for disposal.
“Introducing strict disposal guidelines and penalties may be an effective middle ground,” Mr Tarradah said. “We want people to enjoy chewing gum if they like, but they must dispose of it responsibly.”
Under the proposal currently being discussed, Bahrain could instal designated gum-disposal containers in public spaces such as malls, schools, parks and transit stations. Educational campaigns and modest penalties for improper disposal may also be considered.
Globally, there are some companies that recycle it into new products such as rubber boots, stationery and even new gum bins.
Officials are also examining the viability of biodegradable, plant-based chewing gum made from natural materials like chicle, which breaks down much faster than synthetic gum.
The proposal will be reviewed by municipal authorities in the coming weeks. If approved, pilot gum-disposal stations could be installed as early as next year.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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