Though I’ve spent much more of my life in rural towns than urban areas, I know residents of either location are just as likely to litter. These bars on a metal container brought to mind the garbage I see on a daily basis – stuck along roads and sidewalks, fouling the edge of local rivers, carried along the wind, or accumulating in empty fields. They also brought to mind my disdain for such a selfish and destructive act.
Whether it’s cigarette butts or massive road debris, littering solves one person’s problems by compounding them for everyone else. If you’re someone who is also disgusted by this act but don’t know how to combat it, here are some steps you can take:
- set an example by not littering
- educate family and friends on the many social and environmental hazards of littering
- if your family, friends, or acquaintances litter, address it in a non-confrontational manner (many simply aren’t aware of the consequences of their actions)
- contact local authorities and elected officials about litter on public land. Many communities have placed garbage and recycling receptacles in needed areas thanks to persistent individuals
- contact property owners about litter on private land
- A large amount of litter is produced by poorly secured bins and transport vehicles. Reduce any indirect litter by tightly bagging all trash, using lids for your outside trashcan and recycling bin, and reusing plastic bags, cardboard boxes, plastic and glass containers, and many other items
- devote time to picking up and disposing litter
- organize or take part in community cleanup events
Minolta Maxxum 7
Minolta AF 28mm f/2.8
Kodak Ektar – ISO 100