Littering: A Growing Problem in the United States

Littering has become a widespread issue across the United States, plaguing our cities, parks, beaches, and highways. 

From discarded fast food wrappers and cigarette butts to plastic bottles and cans, litter can be found almost everywhere you look.

This growing problem has only been worsened by the rise in single-use plastics and disposable items, which has led to an increase in litter accumulation. 

Not only is litter unsightly and tarnishes the beauty of our surroundings, but it also poses serious threats to our environment, wildlife, and public health. 

We need to confront this issue head-on before it spirals out of control.

(Movie: Idiocracy- 2006)

Why it Matters - Public Health

When streets, parks, and public spaces are strewn with trash, it creates breeding grounds for bacteria and pests. 

“Littered areas can attract rodents and insects that carry diseases, posing a direct threat to public health.” -SigmaEarth

Trash left on the ground can also leach harmful chemicals into the soil and waterways, contaminating the environment and endangering wildlife.

For example, one of the lesser-known impacts of plastic pollution is the release of harmful chemicals from chlorinated plastics into the surrounding soil.

Chlorinated plastics are used in various products, from PVC pipes to food packaging, making them a common source of pollution in the environment. 

When these plastics are discarded and end up in landfills or littered in the environment, they can start to degrade and release harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil.

Chemicals such as Dioxins and furans, which are known carcinogens and can cause a range of health issues, including reproductive and developmental problems.

Water Pollution

As rainwater washes away the litter from streets and sidewalks, it follows the natural path of water flow and eventually ends up in drainage pipes and sewer channels. 

While the immediate consequences may include minor roadway flooding and the creation of breeding grounds for insects, the long-term effects can be far more concerning.

The accumulation of loose litter inside drainage pipes can lead to clogs that block the flow of water.

The flooding of raw sewage, contaminated with the pathogens present in the litter, has been strongly correlated to the outbreak and spread of diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and malaria.

Litter that finds its way into water bodies can also contaminate water sources, making them unsafe for human consumption and aquatic life. 

Threats to Wildlife

Whether it's plastic bags floating in the ocean or discarded food wrappers in the forest, animals are encountering litter in their habitats at an alarming rate. 

This is not just a problem for the animals themselves, but for the entire ecosystem as well. 

When animals ingest litter, it can cause a range of health issues such as digestive blockages, malnutrition, and even poisoning. 

In some cases, animals may become entangled in litter such as fishing nets or plastic rings, leading to serious injuries or death.

One of the main reasons why animals mistake litter for food is due to its resemblance to their natural prey. 

For example, plastic bags floating in the water can look like jellyfish to sea turtles, leading them to ingest the plastic and suffer from internal injuries. 

Similarly, birds may mistake small pieces of litter for seeds or insects, only to realize too late that it is not edible. 

Taxpayer Costs for Litter Cleanup

The financial burden of cleaning up litter typically falls on taxpayers.  

In fact, it is estimated that the United States spends over $11.5 billion annually on litter clean-up, with local governments bearing the brunt of these costs.

The most common types of litter found in the United States include cigarette butts, food wrappers, and plastic bottles, all of which can take years to decompose and have a negative impact on the environment.

The Prevalence of Litter in the US

Litter is a pervasive issue in the United States, with trash and debris often found scattered along roadsides, beaches, parks, and other public spaces. 

Despite efforts to combat littering through public awareness campaigns and anti-littering laws, the issue persists, with billions of pounds of trash being improperly disposed of each year in the US. 

Each year, an estimated 51 billion pieces of litter are found on roadways and highways.

The prevalence of litter not only reflects a lack of personal responsibility and respect for the environment but also highlights the need for more comprehensive waste management and recycling programs to address the root causes of the problem.

By taking action to reduce litter, such as properly disposing of trash, participating in community clean-up events, and supporting initiatives to reduce single-use plastics, we can help protect the environment and create a cleaner, healthier future for all.

(Japanese soccer fans help clean stadium after world cup match - 2022)

Cultural Attitudes Towards Litter

When I visited Japan in October of 2023, I was struck by the impeccable cleanliness and absence of litter in the streets. 

As soon as I stepped off the plane, it was evident that the Japanese take great pride in maintaining a clean and tidy environment. 

Walking through bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, I was amazed at how spotless the sidewalks and public spaces were.

There were no stray wrappers, cigarette butts, or discarded bottles to be seen anywhere. 

Even in crowded areas like shopping districts and train stations, the streets were immaculate.

Another thing that stood out to me was the lack of trash cans on the streets. 

In most Western countries, it's common to see overflowing bins and litter scattered around them. 

But in Japan, I sometimes struggled to find a single public trash can. 

Instead, I learned that the Japanese have a culture of carrying their trash with them until they can properly dispose of it at home or in designated bins. 

This level of personal responsibility and respect for the environment was truly impressive.

Another aspect of Japan's cleanliness that impressed me was the attention to detail in public spaces. 

Not only were the streets free of litter, but the buildings, parks, and public transportation systems were also impeccably maintained. 

Even the toilets in train stations and restaurants were spotless and well-stocked with supplies. 

During my entire trip, it was clear that cleanliness was a priority at every level of society in Japan.

Littering in Japan Vs United States

When it comes to attitudes towards litter, Japan and the United States have vastly different cultural norms. 

In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on cleanliness and respect for the environment. 

Littering is considered extremely disrespectful and is often met with social shaming. 

As a result, Japanese cities are known for their cleanliness and lack of litter on the streets. 

In contrast, the United States has a more relaxed attitude towards littering. 

While there are certainly efforts to combat littering through campaigns and laws, it is still a common sight to see trash on the streets and in public spaces. 

This cultural difference is reflected in the way each country approaches waste management and recycling. 

In Japan, recycling is taken very seriously, with strict guidelines on sorting and disposal. 

In the United States, recycling efforts vary widely by region and there is often confusion about what can and cannot be recycled. 

Overall, the cultural attitudes towards litter in Japan and the United States highlight the importance of societal norms and values in shaping behavior towards the environment.

Final Thoughts on Littering in the United States

As we have explored the issue of littering in the United States, it is evident that this careless behavior has significant impacts on our environment. 

From polluting our waterways to harming wildlife, littering poses a serious threat to the delicate balance of our ecosystems. 

The accumulation of trash not only creates an eyesore in our communities but also contributes to soil and water pollution, leading to long-term health consequences for both humans and animals. 

Additionally, littering can have detrimental effects on local economies, as tourists are less likely to visit areas that are overrun with garbage. 

By continuing to turn a blind eye to the problem of littering, we are not only jeopardizing the health of our planet but also the well-being of future generations.