Of all the pollutants litter is the most visible, it is a eyesore in a community that can easily prevented. Litter is a  problem that impacts all of us. When thrown on the ground, litter travels and can eventually end up in storm drains, ditches and streams causing harm to humans and wildlife. Disposing of litter can be a costly expense for a large number of communities. In 2007, North Carolina spent $16,755,795 on removing 505,934 bags of litter along roadsides.

What can you do to help?

Homeowners

• Never throw any trash on the ground, hold onto it until you get to a trash can.
• Dispose of trash in containers with secured lids.
• Keep a litter bag in your vechicle at all times.
• Cover and tie down trash when transporting it in open-bed vehicles.
• Participate in enviromental volunteer programs in your area.
• Properly dispose of solid waste items such as appliances, tires, etc.

Business Owners

• For business owners, make sure your site is equipped with a large dumpster and be sure it's emptied periodically. Keep dumpster lids close and make sure your dumpster does not leak liquids.
• Make sure your loading docks are free of debris.
• Never dispose of mop water and other harmful chemicals into the parking lot or storm drain.
• Keep trash picked up on your property.
• Report suspected enviromental problems to the correct agency.
• Participate in enviromental volunteer programs in your area.
• Properly dispose of solid waste items such as appliances, tires, etc.
• Train all employees on proper disposal methods for the waste products generated by your company.