Trash on the roadside isn’t just an eyesore; the cost of litter comes at a hefty price, and the impact doesn’t stop at money. Improperly discarded trash that impacts our environment, economy, and quality of life. Fortunately, for over 40 years, the TDOT has been leading the charge to end littering. Through innovative programs to mobilize thousands of volunteers, we’ve reduced litter by 12%, but there’s more work to be done. The fight against litter is a shared responsibility of every Tennessean.
Are you curious about the real cost of litter in Tennessee? Let’s explore five shocking facts about the true cost of litter, the significant efforts TDOT is making to combat it, and how you can help be part of the solution to end littering in Tennessee.
1. The Cost of Litter in Tennessee
Litter cleanup in Tennessee is costly, with the state spending an estimated $35 million each year to address the issue. This significant financial burden falls on state and local governments, diverting funds that could support critical public services such as infrastructure improvements or educational programs. Since 1983, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has been working to mitigate these costs through its Litter Grant Program, which allocates $5.5 million annually to assist local communities with litter collection efforts and prevention education. The program contributes $3.7 million each year to cleanup operations across Tennessee’s 95 counties, but the growing scale of the problem highlights the need for continued action and public awareness.
2. The Hidden Cost to Tourism
Trash not only diminishes the stunning beauty of Tennessee’s natural landscapes but also poses a challenge to our vibrant economy. With domestic travel spending reaching around $24 billion annually, tourism is vital for our communities. Sadly, litter can tarnish our state’s image and discourage potential visitors. When our towns and attractions are clean and inviting, they bring visitors and boost tourism revenue. Moreover, maintaining a tidy environment can positively influence property values, as many realtors note that visible litter can decrease values by at least 9%. These insights highlight the importance of fostering clean spaces that strengthen our local economy.
3. The High Price of Wildfires
Litter not only affects the environment but also poses significant wildfire risks. Items like cigarette butts, often thought of as insignificant, can quickly spark dangerous fires. These wildfires can cost millions of dollars in firefighting expenses and significantly impact our beloved homes, infrastructure, and wildlife habitats. The recovery process can be daunting, placing a considerable burden on our local communities. By cleaning up the litter, we can prevent these fires, keep our homes and loved ones safe and reduce the financial impact on our towns and cities.
4. Steep Penalties for Littering
Tennessee is dedicated to preserving its stunning landscapes, and we take littering very seriously! The state enforces significant fines to encourage responsible waste disposal—penalties start at $500 and 80 hours of community service for littering between 5 to 10 pounds, escalating to $2,500 and 160 hours for larger amounts. Additionally, repeat offenders face a Class E felony charge, showcasing our commitment to environmental accountability. While these laws aim to deter individuals from contributing to the state’s litter problem, the cost of cleaning these areas up far exceeds the fines. Cleanup efforts divert valuable funds that could otherwise support community needs. By reducing litter, we can protect the environment and our economy’s health.
5. The Cost Benefit of the Litter Grant Program
Tennessee’s Litter Grant program is a smart investment that helps save millions of dollars in cleanup costs. In 2023, the average price for a Litter Grant pickup was just $10.87 per mile, in stark contrast to the $500 per mile that TDOT incurs for contracted pickups. These programs enable local communities to take a proactive role in keeping their roads and landscapes clean while reducing the financial burden on the state. By investing in Litter Grants, Tennessee can maintain its natural beauty and minimize cleanup expenses, proving that small investments in prevention lead to substantial savings and a cleaner state.
Let’s Work Together to Preserve Tennessee’s Natural Beauty
The actual cost of litter is far greater than most realize—it affects not just the environment but also our economy, public services, and quality of life. While TDOT has made incredible strides in reducing litter, the responsibility lies with all of us. By properly disposing of waste, supporting litter prevention programs, and spreading awareness, we can ensure that Tennessee remains a beautiful, thriving state because when we all do our part, we all benefit.
