This fall, as we enjoy the crisp air, explore hiking trails and pumpkin patches, and celebrate the beauty of our state, be sure to take a moment to consider the impact of litter on Tennessee’s environment and keep our surroundings clean for everyone to enjoy.
Imagine hiking along a pristine trail on a fall morning, only to be met with discarded plastic bottles, food wrappers, and cigarette butts. The careless disposal of waste detracts from the scenic beauty and harms the environment. The juxtaposition of natural beauty and human negligence can ruin the serene atmosphere and diminish the overall experience.
Litter can also exacerbate environmental problems such as soil contamination, water pollution, and air quality issues. The chemicals leached from litter can contaminate water sources, impacting the entire ecosystem. In addition, litter can pose a threat to wildlife, as animals might ingest or become entangled in discarded materials, leading to injury or even death. With rainfall and snowmelt, the trash can then be carried into waterways, harming aquatic wildlife and polluting our streams, rivers and lakes.
Ensuring that litter is disposed of properly is a collective effort. With this in mind, here are five valuable tips to help everyone enjoy the wonders of nature while minimizing the impact of litter on Tennessee’s environment.
Tips for a Clean and Enjoyable Fall Season
1. Practice Pack-In, Pack-Out
Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, attending a festival, or embarking on a hike, adhere to the “pack-in, pack-out” principle. Bring reusable bags to collect your waste and dispose of it properly at designated bins. Leaving no trace ensures that the environment remains unspoiled for future visitors.
2. Participate in Clean-Up Events
Join local community clean-up initiatives that focus on preserving the beauty of Tennessee’s outdoor spaces. These events not only help remove existing litter but also raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste disposal. You can find a cleanup near you with our Tennessee Cleanup Event Calendar.
3. Educate and Engage
Join the movement and then share information about the impact of litter on social media platforms, and encourage others to adopt eco-friendly practices. Educating your friends and family can create a ripple effect of positive change.
4. Opt for Reusables
Instead of single-use plastic products, opt for reusable alternatives such as water bottles, cutlery, and containers. This reduces the amount of waste generated and minimizes the chances of litter making its way into nature. Learn about more small changes that make a big difference here.
5. Dispose of Cigarette Butts Properly
If you’re a smoker, ensure cigarette butts are extinguished and disposed of responsibly. These small items are often overlooked but can significantly impact the environment. You can even recycle your cigarette butts through a partnership with Keep Tennessee Beautiful and Terracycle.
Tennessee’s fall outdoor activities offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature’s beauty and create cherished memories. By being mindful of the impact of litter on Tennessee’s environment and adopting responsible waste disposal practices, we can ensure that these experiences remain enjoyable for generations to come. As stewards of the environment, let’s work together to preserve the charm of the fall season and safeguard the natural wonders that Tennessee has to offer.
