Our community has taken huge strides to reduce, reuse and recycle. We have extensive recycling and garbage collection systems in place. Unfortunately, we are still seeing an alarming rate of litter on land in our community.
Once garbage generated on land enters our waterways, it is referred to as aquatic trash. Not only is aquatic trash an unsightly pollutant but creates a long list of problems. For example:
- Cleaning it up can be expensive for communities and their residents.
- Can be a breeding ground for bacteria and pests that can spread disease to humans.
- Clogs up the flow of water that can result in localized flooding.
- Negatively impacts local economies that rely on the fishing industry for employment, income, and tourism.
- Plastics are degrading in microplastics that have environmental impacts
Garbage that originates on land has the potential to make its way to our rivers/streams/lakes in various ways.
Storm Drains: Rain washes trash from paved surfaces
- Overflowing or uncovered trash bins
- Spills from garbage collection
- Litter from outdoor events, around businesses and public transit stops
Dumping: Illegal dumping of waste
- Dumping of household waste, tires, and appliances on land or in a stream
- Illegal encampments near water
Wind: Strong gusts of air moves litter
- Along highway on/off ramps
- Litter from uncovered truck beds and other moving vehicles
Tired of seeing our community and water resources getting trashed?
Take the 22on22 Pledge below!
