Littering is the improper disposal of waste in public and natural spaces, such as streets, parks, and waterways, rather than in designated bins. This practice is more than an aesthetic problem; it creates various negative consequences for the environment and society. Its direct impacts affect natural ecosystems and human well-being alike.
Harm to Wildlife and Habitats
Litter poses direct and severe threats to animal populations. Animals frequently mistake discarded items, especially plastics, for food, leading to ingestion. This causes internal injuries, blockages, and a false sense of fullness, leading to starvation. Examples include seabirds and marine animals like turtles, fish, and whales, which often consume plastic bags resembling jellyfish. Over one million animals are estimated to die each year from ingesting or becoming entangled in improperly discarded trash.
Entanglement is another significant hazard, trapping animals in discarded materials like plastic bags, fishing lines, and six-pack rings. This can lead to strangulation, drowning, or an inability to move freely, making them vulnerable to predators or unable to hunt for food. Marine mammals and birds frequently suffer from entanglement in abandoned fishing gear, a phenomenon sometimes called “ghost fishing.” Litter also degrades natural habitats by physically altering landscapes, smothering vegetation, and disrupting vital breeding grounds and foraging areas.
Contamination of Land and Water
Litter directly contaminates soil and water. As trash degrades, harmful substances like chemicals and battery components can leach into the soil. This introduces chemicals and microparticles, impacting plant growth, soil microorganisms, and overall terrestrial ecosystem health. Microplastic accumulation in soil, from sources like plastic mulch and sewage sludge, alters soil structure, water retention, and microbial diversity, potentially affecting crop growth and fertility.
Litter frequently enters rivers, lakes, and oceans through runoff, wind, or direct dumping, leading to widespread water pollution. This aquatic debris harms marine life and degrades water quality, contributing to large marine debris accumulations, such as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Located between Hawaii and California, this patch covers an estimated 1.6 million square kilometers, roughly twice the size of Texas. While consisting of an estimated 1.8 trillion plastic pieces, it is mostly dispersed microplastics rather than a solid island. Plastics break down into microplastics, which are then ingested by aquatic organisms and can enter the food chain, posing potential risks to ecosystems and human health.
Air Quality and Public Health Concerns
Litter contributes to air pollution through various mechanisms. Fine particles and dust from decomposing materials or broken-down litter can become airborne. Illegal burning of litter, which occurs for an estimated 40% of the world’s discarded waste, is a major concern. This practice releases toxic emissions and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to respiratory issues and other health problems.
Litter poses direct public health risks. Discarded trash often attracts pests such as rodents and insects, known disease carriers. Individuals also risk injury from sharp objects like broken glass, metal shards, or discarded hazardous waste such as syringes. Living in visibly littered environments can also have psychological effects, leading to increased stress and reduced overall well-being.
Economic and Aesthetic Detriments
Litter imposes substantial financial burdens on communities. Governments, taxpayers, and volunteer organizations incur significant costs for litter collection. Annually, the United States spends an estimated $11.5 billion on cleanup efforts, with businesses alone bearing about $9.1 billion. These funds could otherwise be allocated to public services or infrastructure improvements.
Beyond direct cleanup expenses, litter negatively impacts tourism and property values. Areas strewn with trash are less appealing to visitors, deterring tourists and affecting local economies that rely on the tourism industry. Studies indicate that a littered neighborhood can decrease a home’s value, with some real estate agents estimating a reduction of up to nine percent. Furthermore, litter can obstruct storm drains and other urban waterways, leading to blockages that cause localized flooding and potential damage to infrastructure.