preview

Littering Research Paper

Good Essays

Akshata Makkaru
05/30/2016
English 3003
Instructor Ziff
Problem solution Essay Final draft Littering in My Neighborhood A major community problem that I have noticed in my neighborhood in the city of Oakland California has been littering in public space. Littering entails throwing away garbage recklessly in the neighborhood instead of using trash bins or designated trash disposal areas. Individuals who litter either are not aware or do not care about the environmental impact their self- centered behavior is having and the negative impact it leaves on the people living in the neighborhood. Further, people are more likely to litter where there is already a littered environment, …show more content…

According to a report by Natural Resources Defense Council, the city of Oakland is spending about $8 Million on this service. (Learn How Much, n.d) I believe this should considerably reduce the water-borne diseases among the city residents. Further, I believe it is essential for the community to be educated about the ill-sides of littering to avoid similar situations arising in future years; so that the city can spend the tax dollars on other pressing needs than on undoing avoidable littering. Littering has led to an unpleasant atmosphere and odor in my locality. Pedestrians and Motorists driving through the neighborhood have significantly contributed to the littering problem here in the city of Oakland by flinging away polythene bags with garbage on the streets; rodents and stray animals rip open the bags strewing its contents on the street further denigrating the location. Further the winds blowing take the garbage on the streets and strew it …show more content…

Stores and Restaurants are mandated to keep trash bins within 10 feets of entrance, as evidenced by a research done by Walt Disney Co that determined people litter if trash bins are further than 25 steps. (Being a Good Neighbor, 2015) However, I do believe unless people are made aware that their lackadaisical attitude towards littering could lead to ill health of people including their own, and could negatively impact their financial well being, they are unlikely to change their behavior. Local authorities should spend tax dollars pro-actively training people on how they could positively impact the environment by categorizing waste into recycle, reuse and disposing effectively. Businesses in the area could encourage their employees to spend some hours in annual neighborhood cleanup, or adopt a street for cleanup on a monthly

Get Access