Litter is waste disposed of in the wrong place. It comes from so many different sources and can be harmful to people animals and the environment. Litter can contaminate our water sources. It can cause fires and is a big danger to public health. It can contribute to the spread of diseases. Litter pollutes the air.
Litter comes from so many different sources. Litter is the improper disposal of household trash. People in vehicles or walking and just dropping anything in their hands that they want to get rid of. Uncovered moving trucks, and so many other sources. A strong wind and rainfall can contribute to the buildup of garbage or litter as well.
“One of the effects of littering is the negative impact it has on the appearance of an area. A litter strewn area looks dirty and unsightly. Litter that accumulates may also smell.” Says, Sciencing.
“It was recently revealed that Prince William and Harry got made fun of at school when their friends found out that Prince Charles used to take them on Litter Picking Holidays. While the idea might not seem like much fun, teaching kids about litter and showing them its devastating effects can turn them into well rounded environmentally – conscious adults.” A quote from (Bins.co.uk).
Here are some items that are frequently disposed of incorrectly and are some of the main contributors of littering. Cigarette butts, food wrappers, plastic bottles, glass bottles, disposable cups, plastic and paper bags, straws, beverage cans, tires, and vehicle debris.
Here are some of the effects of littering:
Pollution – As litter degrades chemicals and micro particles are released. These chemicals are
not natural to the environment and can therefore cause a number of problems. For
example cigarette butts contain arsenic and formaldehyde. These poisons can make
their way into the soil and freshwater systems impacting both humans and animals.
Burning Litter – Burning litter in the open can release toxic emissions. These can cause
respiratory issues, other health problems and even the starting base for acid
rain. This process also contaminates the Ozone Layer.
Kills Wild Life – Animals die from ingesting or becoming entrapped in improperly discarded
trash. Plastic litter is the most common killer and marine animals are the most
notably affected.
Facilitates the Spread of Diseases – In the physical context for both humans and animals. This
can happen by picking up, touching or accidentally injuring
themselves on improperly disposal of trash.
Bacteria and parasites can also be transmitted to humans indirectly through infected vector.
Vectors are animals and insects that come in contact with contaminated litter and then transmit those contaminants to humans.
The best way to prevent littering has to start from home.
If we take the time to dispose of our garbage correctly then it eventually becomes natural for us to dispose of garbage correctly no matter where we are.
To start with we need to ensure that we have garbage bins at home and teach our children to use them.
I always maintain I am a firm believer that we should lead by example especially when it comes to teaching our children.
“Rather than actively ‘teaching’ our kids not to drop litter; for most of us it’s probably a case of leading by example. If children see their parents throw rubbish in a bin, they may well copy the habit, but what happens if you don’t do, it but your children do?” (Huff Post).
Here are some things we can do to teach our children not to litter:
Ensure that each room has a garbage bin.
Ensure that after your child eats a snack, uses a napkin or anything that requires disposal it is disposed of in a garbage bin.
Let your children participate in the cleaning up of the yard, so they understand that it is not just the inside of the house that should be kept clean but the outside also.
Talk to your children about the effects of littering and if you can, show them why littering is bad.
If you are out and there is no garbage bin, then hold on to your trash until you find one.
It might also be a good idea to carry a plastic bag and a reusable bottle with you, to use when you go out.
Many countries quite often have what is known as a ‘Litter Drive’ or ‘Clean Up Day’. Take your children out and get them involved in these activities.
In countries where recycling is practiced, teach your children what items are recyclable so they will know where the different items are disposed of. There are usually separate bins that are provided for recycling.
Remember children live what they learn, so whatever examples we set for them is what they will eventually practice.
Parents, be your child’s first teacher.
Works Cited
Bins.co.uk. How to Teach Kids About Litter and Have Fun. (2018) https://www.litterbins.co.uk/blog/how-to-teach-kids-about-litter-and-have-fun/
Sciencing. The Effects of Littering on the Environment and Animals. (2018). https://sciencing.com/effects-littering-environment-animals-8634413.html
Seera. Why is Litter a Problem? Trash Hero World. (2018). https://trashhero.org/why-is-litter-a-problem/
Texas Disposal System. How Does Litter Affect the Environment? (2020). https://www.texasdisposal.com/blog/the-real-cost-of-littering/
