Litter Bugs
Litter that is dropped onto streets, sidewalks or driveways is often washed into our storm drains and eventually ends up on our beaches and in rivers and lakes. Some of the most common litter items found include plastic bags, glass bottles, gum and cigarette butts. This debris can be harmful to humans, degrade water quality and can choke, suffocate or disable aquatic wildlife. Heavy rains can move litter rapidly, clogging storm drains and creating flood hazards.
Viewer Tip: In one survey by Keep America Beautiful, 43 percent of people interviewed in public places admitted to littering within the past month. You can help put litter in its place with these tips:
- Properly dispose of paper, plastics and other waste by recycling them or throwing them away. Make sure these items don’t blow away accidentally from your property or car.
- Sweep up litter and debris from sidewalks, driveways and parking lots, especially around storm drains.
- If you are at a beach or recreation area that does not provide trash cans, pack your waste with you and dispose of it at home.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Sources: Think Blue Maine, www.thinkbluemaine.org; Keep America Beautiful. “Littering Behavior in America: Results of a National Study.” Available from http://www.kab.org/site/PageServer?pagename=LitterResearch2009)
