Litter
The best way to combat littering is through education, awareness and enforcement. Implementing and promoting litter prevention campaigns, providing easily accessible trash and recycling bins and encouraging responsible waste can help reduce litter. Enforcing littering laws and imposing fines can also deter individuals from littering. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/tacir/2023publications/2023_LitterReview.pdf
- Don’t Litter: Always use trash and recycling bins for your litter. If bins aren’t available, carry your trash until you find a suitable disposal site.
- Lead By Example: Be a role model by disposing of your trash properly. When others see you doing it, they may be encouraged to follow suit.
- Pick Up Litter: Whenever you come across litter, take a moment to pick it up and properly dispose of it. Even small efforts can make a big difference.
- Reduce Single-Use Items: Carry reusable bags, water bottles and containers. This reduces the need for single-use packaging which can contribute to litter.
- Participate in Cleanup Efforts: Join or organize local cleanup events in your community. These events can be a great way to make a direct impact on reducing litter.
- Be part of the solution: Share tips and information to promote a litter-free lifestyle. https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-help-end-litter-in-tennessee/
- Animals may mistake litter for food and ingest it. This can lead to serious health issues or even death. Plastic items are a serious concern as they can be indigestible and cause blockages in the digestive tracts of animals.
- Wildlife can become entangled in litter such as plastic bags, six-pack rings and fishing lines. This can result in injuries, amputations or even death. Marine animals are particularly vulnerable to entanglement, with discarded fishing gear posing a significant threat.
- Litter can alter natural habitats and ecosystems. Discarded items can accumulate in water bodies, affecting water quality and disrupting aquatic ecosystems. Litter can also smother vegetation, reducing the availability of suitable habitats for various species.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/what-is-the-cost-of-littering-explore-the-impacts-on-tennessee/
Even if rain washes away litter from one location, it often ends up in rivers, lakes and oceans. This can lead to water pollution and harm aquatic ecosystems. Plastics can persist in the environment for a long time, breaking down into harmful microplastics and posing threats to marine life, wildlife and humans. https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters/learn-about-aquatic-trash
By fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in the community, residents are more likely to adopt responsible waste disposal habits. Community-led programs, like No Trash November and Adopt-A-Highway, can encourage behavioral changes by promoting litter-free environments.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/tacir/2023publications/2023_LitterReview.pdf
Tennessee has a Litter Hotline that you can use to report incidents of littering. You can call the hotline at 1-877-8-LITTER (1-877-854-8837) to report the incident and provide the necessary details. The litter hotline only covers Tennessee state routes, interstates and vehicles with Tennessee license plates.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/litter-hotline/
The specific health risks depend on the type and amount of pollution and the nature of the pollutant’s susceptibility. Proper waste management, recycling and pollution control measures are essential to minimize the health risks associated with litter and pollution. Public awareness and responsible environmental practices are key components of preventing the spread of diseases linked to environmental pollution https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9399006/
Litter such as plastic bottles, cigarette butts and food waste can harm the environment by polluting soil and waterways and harming wildlife. Garbage can also create unpleasant odors and attract pests like rats, flies and mosquitoes, which can lead to health problems.
https://www.keeptnbeautiful.org/litter-prevention
When littering is stopped, the effects can be context-dependent and the degree to which positive outcomes occur may vary based on local efforts in waste management, recycling programs and environmental policies. However, there would be many positive effects on the environment. From improving ecosystems and natural resources to increased water quality and a decreased threat toward wildlife, the impact would be huge.
https://www.litterfreeintennessee.org/get-the-facts/facts-statistics/#:~:text=It%20contaminates%20the%20ground.,make%20the%20soil%20generally%20unusable
Roadside litter harms tourism and the local economy by affecting the overall attractiveness of an area, the tourist experience and the success of local businesses. Addressing and preventing roadside litter is essential for the well-being of both the community and its economic interests.
https://kab.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Litter-Study-Summary-Report-May-2021_final_05172021.pdf
Recycling
Find your closest recycling center and learn what items they accept using NTT’s interactive map. Explore locations in your area for detailed information, including addresses, available phone numbers and websites.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-identify-what-trash-can-be-recycled/
In Tennessee, recycling requirements vary locally, as recycling programs are managed at the city or county level. Some areas may require residents to sort recyclables, while others may use single-stream recycling where various materials can be placed together in a recycling bin. Please use our recycling map to find the nearest location to you and explore detailed information for each location via their website or by contacting them via phone.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/tennessee-recycling-centers/
In Tennessee, recycling requirements vary locally, as recycling programs are managed at the city or county level. Use our recycling map to find the nearest location to you and explore detailed information for each location via their website or by contacting them via phone.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/tennessee-recycling-centers/
Laptops, TVs, mobile phones and other electronics must be recycled carefully. This type of waste is known as e-waste and is a growing problem as we continue to become technologically dependent. These must be dropped off in specific locations because they can often have toxic substances that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Find a collection site near you by visiting the Call2Recycle website.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-identify-what-trash-can-be-recycled/
Batteries and electronics may be recycled carefully. This type of waste is known as e-waste and is a growing problem as we continue to become technologically dependent. When recycling batteries, it is best to determine what type of battery you have so that you can recycle it correctly. These must be dropped off in specific locations because they can often have toxic substances that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Find a collection site near you by visiting the Call2Recycle website.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-identify-what-trash-can-be-recycled/
They are initially sorted at recycling facilities and then processed, cleaned and transformed into raw materials for manufacturing. This involves shredding, melting and reshaping to create new products or packaging. These recycled products are then distributed, sold and may re-enter the consumer cycle.
https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/us-recycling-system
Try rinsing or scraping the residue off to clean it. “Spatula-clean” is clean enough to recycle. Containers contaminated with food cannot be recycled. If you have a composting area, cardboard and paper with food residue can be composted instead.
https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-do-i-recycle-common-recyclables#:~:text=Try%20rinsing%20or%20scraping%20the,with%20food%20cannot%20be%20recycled)
Large or bulky items like appliances or furniture cannot be recycled and may need special care when you dispose of them. Tennessee has many household hazardous waste collection events. Click here to find one near you. Or you can check the Keep Tennessee Beautiful app for a facility closest to you and remember to check with them to find out what they will accept. You can also donate gently used items to charity shops.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-identify-what-trash-can-be-recycled/
Recycling plays a vital role in environmental protection, resource conservation and the promotion of a more sustainable and responsible approach to consumption and waste management.
https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/us-recycling-system#:~:text=For%20the%20environment%2C%20recycling%3A,and%20process%20new%20raw%20materials)
You can promote recycling in your community by raising awareness, participating in local recycling programs or events and educating others about the benefits of recycling. Encouraging responsible recycling habits among friends and family is also helpful.
https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-waste-what-you-can-do#Tips%20for%20Communities
Environment
The biggest issue facing Tennessee is the management of environmental threats to its land, water and air quality. State agencies, environmental organizations and communities are actively working on addressing these challenges through regulations, conservation efforts and public awareness campaigns. For the most up-to-date information, refer to recent reports from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
https://www.epa.gov/tn/environmental-information-tennessee
Environmental pollutants can cause health problems like respiratory diseases, heart disease and some types of cancer. Leached into water, those contaminates can cause waterborne diseases or chemicals, which cause other negative health issues. Air quality can also be affected when air is contaminated by particle pollution, such as dust, smoke or drops of liquid and air pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, ozone or nitrogen oxides. Poor air quality is linked to many health problems, including lung cancer and heart disease. Addressing these pollution sources is crucial for mitigating widespread health risks.
https://health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health/literature-summaries/environmental-conditions
https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/environmental-health#cit2
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/air.html
(https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/water.html)
By taking responsibility for your actions and keeping our state clean, you can join thousands of Tennesseans and help be a part of the solution for environmental change.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/join-the-movement/
Pollution has a significant impact on river health in Tennessee, posing threats to both aquatic ecosystems and human communities. Agricultural runoff, industrial discharges and urban stormwater runoff introduce pollutants such as sediment, nutrients and chemicals into rivers. This can lead to water quality degradation, harmful algal blooms and disruptions in the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Contaminants in rivers may also compromise the health of fish and other aquatic organisms, potentially affecting the safety of seafood for human consumption. Additionally, polluted rivers pose challenges for recreational activities and can lead to increased treatment costs for drinking water utilities.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/documents/wr_wq_report-305b-2014.pdf
Environmental pollutants can cause health problems like respiratory diseases, heart disease and some types of cancer. Leached into water, those contaminates can cause waterborne diseases or chemicals, which cause other negative health issues. Air quality can also be affected when air is contaminated by particle pollution, such as dust, smoke or drops of liquid and air pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, ozone or nitrogen oxides. Poor air quality is linked to many health problems, including lung cancer and heart disease. Addressing these pollution sources is crucial for mitigating widespread health risks.https://health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health/literature-summaries/environmental-conditions
https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/environmental-health#cit2
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/air.html
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/water.html
Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues. Contaminated water sources may cause waterborne diseases. Exposure to chemicals and noise pollution can have adverse health effects. Climate change poses risks like extreme weather events, while inadequate waste management can spread diseases. Biodiversity loss affects resources like medicines. A clean environment enhances quality of life, emphasizing the need for individuals to make eco-friendly choices and support initiatives for a healthier, sustainable future.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044178/
Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues. Contaminated water sources may cause waterborne diseases. Exposure to chemicals and noise pollution can have adverse health effects. Climate change poses risks like extreme weather events, while inadequate waste management can spread diseases. Biodiversity loss affects resources like medicines. A clean environment enhances quality of life, emphasizing the need for individuals to make eco-friendly choices and support initiatives for a healthier, sustainable future.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044178/
You can check out the Nobody Trashes Tennessee event calendar:
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/events/ Other volunteer information on community involvement in Tennessee can be found at https://www.tn.gov/volunteer-tennessee.html
River Health
Tennessee communities get their water from a variety of sources that need to be managed and protected, including rivers, lakes and groundwater. Having clean water to drink is necessary for good health. In addition to water for drinking, water is needed for making baby formula, preparing foods, flushing toilets, brushing teeth and showering. The state monitors public water supplies and permits septic systems to keep people safe.
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/water.html
Pollution has a significant impact on river health in Tennessee, posing threats to both aquatic ecosystems and human communities. Agricultural runoff, industrial discharges and urban stormwater runoff introduce pollutants such as sediment, and nutrients chemicals into rivers. This can lead to water quality degradation, harmful algal blooms and disruptions in the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Contaminants in rivers may also compromise the health of fish and other aquatic organisms, potentially affecting the safety of seafood for human consumption. Additionally, polluted rivers pose challenges for recreational activities and can lead to increased treatment costs for drinking water utilities.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/documents/wr_wq_report-305b-2014.pdf
Tennessee Valley Authority monitors water quality and aquatic life throughout the Tennessee River system and shares data with communities, industries and organizations; manages water supply in the system; improves waters around TVA dams; and collaborates with communities, organizations and agencies to preserve and enhance the aquatic biodiversity in the Tennessee River system.
https://www.tva.com/environment/environmental-stewardship/water-quality#:~:text=TVA%20monitors%20water%20quality%20and,preserve%20and%20enhance%20the%20aquatic)
To protect water at home and in your community, consider engaging in healthy watersheds projects, participating in disaster preparedness to address potential disruptions to water supplies, maintaining your septic system responsibly and volunteering for water monitoring initiatives. Additionally, choose WaterSense-labeled products and adopt water-saving practices to contribute to water conservation and environmental protection. These simple yet impactful actions empower individuals to play a vital role in preserving the health and sustainability of our water resources.
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/water.html#protect
Microplastics, sedimentation and industrial pollution sewage are all contributors to water quality issues in Tennessee. State agencies such as the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) play a crucial role in monitoring and managing water quality issues. Local watershed groups, non-profit organizations and concerned citizens also contribute to conservation and restoration efforts. It’s advisable to check with local authorities for the latest information and initiatives regarding water quality in Tennessee rivers, lakes and streams.
https://www.tennesseeriverkeeper.org/pollution-issues#:~:text=Runoff%20from%20paved%20surfaces%2C%20development,in%20our%20rivers%20and%20creeks)
Maintaining the health and integrity of the streams, rivers, wetlands, lakes and reservoirs is imperative to maintaining and maximizing economic growth and use. Tourism and recreation contribute significantly to the local economy through spending on accommodations, restaurants and outdoor equipment-related services. Unhealthy rivers with degraded ecosystems may deter tourists and negatively impact the recreation industry.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/tn-h2o/documents/plan-&-appendices/wr-tnh2o_plan-app_recreation-and-tourism-executive-summary.pdf
Wetlands in Tennessee provide multifaceted benefits that directly impact the health of rivers. Their role in water quality improvement, erosion control, flood abatement, habitat enhancement, water supply, recreation, partnerships, education and aesthetic appeal collectively contribute to the resilience and sustainability of river ecosystems in the state. Conservation and protection efforts aimed at preserving wetlands are integral to maintaining the health and vitality of Tennessee’s rivers, lakes and streams.
https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/wr-water-resources/watershed-stewardship/wetlands/what-are-the-benefits-of-wetlands.html
The health of rivers in Tennessee is intricately linked to the availability of clean drinking water. Protecting and preserving river ecosystems, managing land use to prevent pollution, implementing effective water quality monitoring and management practices are essential for ensuring a sustainable and safe supply of drinking water for communities in the state.
https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/environmental-quality/eq/water.html
Tennessee protects endangered and threatened species in its rivers, lakes and streams through the Endangered Species Act, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, fisheries management, invasive species control, research programs, public education, collaborative initiatives, regulatory measures, and environmental and impact assessments, ensuring the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity.
https://www.fws.gov/office/tennessee-ecological-services
Tennessee residents and visitors can enjoy and contribute to the health of the state’s rivers by practicing responsible recreation, participating in river clean-up events, supporting conservation organizations, adopting water-friendly habits, not polluting and staying informed about local water issues. Respecting natural habitats and wildlife ensures a sustainable and enjoyable river experience for all.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/tn-h2o/documents/plan-&-appendices/wr-tnh2o_plan-app_recreation-and-tourism-executive-summary.pdf
Litter Prevention
Tennessee has a Litter Hotline that you can use to report incidents of littering. You can call the hotline at 1-877-8-LITTER (1-877-854-8837) to report the incident and provide the necessary details. The litter hotline only covers Tennessee state routes, interstates and vehicles with Tennessee license plates.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/litter-hotline/
Littering in Tennessee can result in fines, community service, court appearances or jail time. It can also lead to increased costs to taxpayers.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/the-top-roadside-litter-laws-you-should-know-in-tennessee/
Litter adversely affects Tennessee’s wildlife, leading to injuries or fatalities as animals ingest or become entangled in debris. The pollution extends to water sources, impacting wildlife and potentially contaminating drinking water. Persistent littering has degraded various Tennessee areas, contributing to the Tennessee River’s designation as one of the world’s most polluted rivers. https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/what-is-the-cost-of-littering-explore-the-impacts-on-tennessee/
There are so many ways that Tennessee citizens can help make a difference in reducing the amount of litter on our roadways. Individuals can contribute to litter prevention efforts by participating in community clean-ups, practicing proper waste disposal, supporting litter prevention initiatives and educating others in being part of the solution to end littering in Tennessee. https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/about/
Plastic and paper items makeup the majority of litter on Tennessee roadways, with an estimated 37% (285 million) plastic items and 22% (165.5 million) paper items. Changes in plastic packaging since 2016 may contribute to the observed increase, and while cigarette butts decreased from 24% to 13%, glass items increased from 5% to 9%.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/KTNB_Statewide_Litter_Study_2-16-2023.pdf
Wildlife Conservation
Tennessee is the most biologically diverse inland state in the nation. Wildlife conservation in Tennessee is crucial for maintaining the state’s biodiversity, ecological balance, economic prosperity, cultural identity and the overall well-being of its residents.
https://www.tn.gov/twra/about-the-twra.html
Habitat loss, invasive species, water pollution, littering, overharvesting and poaching, climate change, disease, increased infrastructure and lack of awareness and education contribute to conservation challenges in Tennessee. To address these challenges, various organizations, government agencies and community groups in Tennessee work collaboratively on conservation initiatives. These efforts often involve habitat restoration, research, public outreach and the development of policies to protect and manage wildlife and their habitats.
https://tnwf.org/issues-advocacy/#:~:text=Tennessee%20has%20a%20pollution%20problem,%2C%20health%2C%20and%20wild%20places)
Individuals play a vital role in the conservation of wildlife in Tennessee. Contribute to the support of local wildlife by donating to conservation organizations and engaging in volunteer activities. By planting native species and reducing chemicals in your garden, you can help foster wildlife friendly environments. Stay informed on local wildlife issues and advocate for conservation policies. Keep animals safe by avoiding littering and participating in cleanup initiatives. Encourage sustainable practices to ensure the health of Tennessee’s diverse ecosystems.
https://www.fws.gov/office/tennessee-ecological-services/get-involved
https://tnwf.org/issues-advocacy/
https://www.hon.org/organization/0011H00001NkiztQAB
In Tennessee, wildlife viewing generates $942 million in economic impact, fishing creates $2 billion and state parks generate $1.5 billion. Outdoor recreation is directly responsible for creating and maintaining 188,000 Tennessee jobs. By continuing to protect wildlife and preserve natural resources, Tennessee can contribute significantly to the the state’s economic growth, providing sustainable jobs and a high quality of life for its residents.
https://tnwf.org/public-lands-large-and-small-benefit-tennesseans/
Many organizations and agencies, both governmental and non-profit, actively engage volunteers and interns in various conservation initiatives. To find specific opportunities, reach out directly to the organizations below, check their websites or contact local environmental agencies.
https://www.tn.gov/careers/apply-here/internships/internships.html
https://www.nature.org/en-us/
http://landtrusttn.org/
https://tnwf.org/
http://www.tnaqua.org/conserve
https://www.memphiszoo.org/volunteer
Healthy habitats are necessary for fish and wildlife populations to thrive. Nearly 90 percent of the land in Tennessee is privately owned, so it’s up to private landowners to help maintain healthy populations of native plants and wildlife.
https://tnwf.org/habitat-restoration/#:~:text=Healthy%20habitats%20are%20necessary%20for,of%20native%20plants%20and%20wildlife)
If you observe wildlife conservation concerns or witness illegal activities involving wildlife in Tennessee, it’s essential to report them to the appropriate authorities. When reporting a wildlife conservation concern or illegal activity, try to provide as much detail as possible, including the location, date, time and description of the incident or violation. If you can do so safely, consider taking photographs or videos to document the situation.
Remember that reporting violations helps authorities take appropriate action to address issues and protect wildlife. It’s crucial to report such incidents promptly to contribute to the conservation and preservation of Tennessee’s natural resources.
https://www.tn.gov/twra/law-enforcement.html
Pollinator conservation is integral to the success of agriculture in Tennessee. It enhances crop pollination, increases yields, promotes biodiversity and contributes to the overall sustainability and resilience of the state’s agricultural systems.
Tennesseans can help by protecting and planting native plant species, reducing or limiting pesticide use, providing clean water sources, supporting land conservation and providing nesting places for local bee populations.
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/twra/documents/habitat/RCPP-Managing-for-Native-Pollinators.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/tdot/environmental/TDOT%20Pollinator%20Brochure%20August%202022.pdf)
You can find a wealth of resources, activities and programs about the Tennessee Pollinator Habitat Program at https://tnpollinators.org/.
Adopt-A-Highway
The Adopt-A-Highway program is a grassroots initiative that empowers communities and organizations to take ownership of maintaining and cleaning stretches of public roadways. Since the program’s inception in 1989, our volunteers have collected more than 12 million pounds of litter from Tennessee’s roadsides. The concept is simple: volunteers commit to cleaning up a two-mile stretch of highway at least four times a year.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/what-is-adopt-a-highway-and-how-does-it-keep-litter-off-our-roads/
Local businesses, community groups, or even individuals can adopt a two-mile stretch of a Tennessee highway. The group will sign an agreement with the state’s Department of Transportation outlining the responsibilities and safety guidelines.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/what-is-adopt-a-highway-and-how-does-it-keep-litter-off-our-roads/
- Designate a Group Coordinator so TDOT can keep your group updated regularly.
- Complete an Application Form and register your group.
- Work with a District Coordinator to assign your adopted route.
- Follow the safety guidelines for litter pickups.
- Report your activity so TDOT can pick up the trash your group collected.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/adopt-a-highway/
Once you are assigned a 2-mile stretch of highway, please use the following checklist to help organize and complete cleanup events: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/tdot/environmental/adopt-a-highway/AAH_volunteermanual_2017.pdf
Groups are asked to commit to adopting approximately two miles of roadway for at least one year and conduct a total of four litter cleanups on their adopted stretch of roadway. One pickup per season is recommended, although groups may conduct cleanups more frequently if desired.
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway.html
A ratio of one adult aged 21 or older is required to supervise every five minors under the age of 18. Adequate supervision is necessary for participants aged 12-17. Participants under the age of 12 are not allowed to participate. Please refer to the TDOT AAH website for more information.
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway.html
Volunteers must watch the Adopt-a-Highway Safety Video before participating in a cleanup of the adopted section and provide acknowledgment to TDOT that the video has been viewed.
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway.html
TDOT will provide volunteers with all necessary supplies and safety materials (trash bags, trash grabbers, gloves, caution signs and class 2 safety vests).
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/adopt-a-highway/
Individuals, families, youth organizations, businesses – large and small, civic and non-profit organizations, religious groups, fraternities, sororities and schools
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway.html
There is no fee required to participate in the program. TDOT provides volunteers with all necessary supplies and safety materials.
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway
Since the program’s inception in 1989, our volunteers have collected more than 12 million pounds of litter from Tennessee’s roadsides. These valuable contributions are helping produce cleaner roadsides, reduce maintenance costs and boost litter prevention awareness in the Volunteer State.
https://www.tn.gov/tdot/environmental-home/environmental-highway-beautification-office/adopt-a-highway.html
Trash
The responsibility for managing and addressing highway trash in Tennessee primarily falls under the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). TDOT is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the state’s highways and roadways, including efforts to control litter and maintain a clean environment.
It’s important to note that while TDOT plays a significant role, addressing highway trash is a collective effort that involves collaboration with local communities, businesses and individual residents. Public cooperation in avoiding littering and participating in cleanup activities contributes significantly to maintaining clean and aesthetically pleasing highways. https://www.tn.gov/tdot/maintenance/debris-removal.html
If you miss trash day in Tennessee, you can take several steps to address the situation:
Check Local Guidelines:
– Review the waste management guidelines specific to your city or county in Tennessee. Different municipalities may have varying policies and procedures for missed trash pickups.
Contact Waste Management Provider:
– Reach out to your waste management provider or the designated department in your local government responsible for waste collection. You can find their contact information on your utility bill or the official municipal website.
Reschedule Pickup:
– Inquire about the possibility of rescheduling the missed trash pickup. Some waste management providers may have a makeup day or an option to schedule a pickup for missed collections.
Hold onto Trash Until the Next Pickup:
– If the trash cannot be picked up immediately, securely store the waste until the next scheduled pickup day. Use proper containers to prevent odors and potential issues.
Drop-Off Locations:
– Check if there are designated drop-off locations or facilities in your area where residents can dispose of their trash. Some municipalities have facilities for residents to bring their waste if they miss the regular pickup.
Recycling Centers:
– If your recycling wasn’t picked up, consider taking it to a local recycling center. Tennessee has various recycling centers you may be able to drop off recyclables even if your regular trash pickup is missed.
https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/sw-solid-waste.html
It is illegal to put trash in dumpsters on private property — unless you have explicit permission from the dumpster owner. Under the Solid Waste Act, dumping solid wastes without a permit is illegal. If not reported, cases often go undetected. If you see a dumping site, contact your local environmental field office, public works or codes department if you live within an urban area.
https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/solid-waste/solid-waste-management/illegal-dumping.html
It is illegal to put trash in dumpsters on private property — unless you have explicit permission from the dumpster owner. Under the Solid Waste Act, dumping solid wastes without a permit is illegal. If not reported, cases often go undetected. If you see a dumping site, contact your local environmental field office, public works or codes department if you live within an urban area.
https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/solid-waste/solid-waste-management/illegal-dumping.html
If your city trash pickup won’t take your old couch in Tennessee, there are alternative options for disposal. Here are some steps you can take:
Arrange a Bulky Item Pickup:
– In some cases, waste management providers offer special bulky item pickup services. Inquire about the availability of such services, if they are offered, and schedule a pickup for your old couch. There may be a fee associated with this service.
Check for Special Pickup Events:
– Some cities organize special pickup events for large or bulky items periodically. Check with your local waste management or city authorities to find out if there are any upcoming events where you can dispose of your old couch.
Dispose at a Landfill or Transfer Station:
– If your waste management provider doesn’t offer a solution, you can explore landfill or transfer station options. Contact local landfills or transfer stations to inquire about their policies, fees and hours of operation for disposing of large items.
Explore Furniture Recycling Centers:
– Look for furniture recycling centers or organizations that accept used furniture. Some charities may also pick up gently used furniture for donation.
Donate or Sell:
– If the couch is in good condition, consider donating it to a local charity or selling it. Some organizations may offer pickup services for donated furniture.
Contact a Junk Removal Service:
– Junk removal services can be hired to pick up and dispose of large items like old couches. They may charge a fee for this service, but it can be a convenient option.
Repurpose or Upcycle:
– Explore creative ways to repurpose or upcycle the old couch. You might find DIY projects or local artisans who can transform the materials into something new.
Check with Local Recycling Facilities:
– Some recycling facilities may accept certain types of furniture materials for recycling. Contact local recycling centers to inquire about their policies and whether they can take the materials from your old couch.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/simplify-your-spring-cleaning-with-the-keep-tennessee-beautiful-app/
Uncontrolled waste disposal could lead to the spread of diseases, environmental pollution, and increased illegal dumping. The aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods would decline, affecting the quality of life for residents and the economic well-being of communities could suffer. The strain on emergency services, potential legal consequences for municipalities and social tensions among residents are among the various challenges that would arise. Efficient waste management systems are crucial for maintaining Tennessee’s healthy and sustainable living environment.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4344663/
Although recycling can help prevent waste from sitting in a local landfill, people often end up recycling items that are not recyclable due to their inability to break down, their level of toxicity or other potential issues. While you may be well-intentioned as a recycler, it is important to understand what waste can and cannot be recycled so that we can all do our part to keep Tennessee beautiful. In addition, when you recycle the right kinds of trash and properly dispose of the rest, you are helping keep litter off our roadways and protecting the environment. Click the link below to identify what trash can be recycled: https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/how-to-identify-what-trash-can-be-recycled/
Disposing of hazardous materials in Tennessee requires special care and adherence to specific guidelines to protect human health and the environment. Review local regulations and guidelines for hazardous waste disposal in your specific city or county in Tennessee. The Keep Tennessee Beautiful app is a great resource for finding your closest drop-off location and what they accept.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/simplify-your-spring-cleaning-with-the-keep-tennessee-beautiful-app/
https://www.tn.gov/environment/sw-mm-household-hazardous-waste-program/sw-mm-household-hazardous-waste-collection-event-schedule0.html
The Keep Tennessee Beautiful app is a great resource for finding your closest drop-off location for many types of trash. Click the link below for more information on how to download and learn where you can dispose of many items.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/simplify-your-spring-cleaning-with-the-keep-tennessee-beautiful-app/
Larger items that can’t be donated (like mattresses or broken appliances), paint, used oil and pesticides are all hazardous and must never be put out for regular trash service. They require special handling and need to be disposed of at a hazardous waste disposal center or a free disposal drop-off day. Used tires, once their potential for tire swings is gone, can be delivered to specific waste tire collection sites. Every county is required to have a spot for you to take your used tires.
The Keep Tennessee Beautiful app is a great resource for finding your closest drop-off location for many types of trash. Click the link below for more information on how to download and learn where you can dispose of many items.
https://nobodytrashestennessee.com/simplify-your-spring-cleaning-with-the-keep-tennessee-beautiful-app/