Everyone knows littering is bad and illegal but like many other things, people do it anyway. Carelessness is the major issue for most and the mass of people who do drop their garbage onto the ground do it without thinking twice or ever looking back. Littering of every substance is bad, but plastic specifically is the major problem considering it’s durability to the elements and mass quantity that has taken over the world. We must look for further ways to battle the problem by pushing federal regulations and providing the population with more accessible ways to dispose of their waste.
Unfortunately, a number of people are simply not bothered by dropping their belongings on the ground. Maybe it’s because they d
on’t understand the consequences our earth and wildlife are left to face or maybe the sight of trashy streets and beaches do not faze them. That being the worse case, better access to trash cans and recycling containers can subconsciously make even the careless put their garbage in a proper place. Garbage is everywhere, but since our main focus here is the ocean, trash cans should be more accessible on beaches. I have been to countless beaches where there is no garbage can in sight. Many spend all day down by the water eating and drinking from plastic products and when the days is done, they leave their trash behind. Garbage/recycling cans and cigarette disposals should be placed about every 30 yards or so with the goal being one, people will use them, and two, the careless won’t feel that the trip to the can is too far out of their way. Some may argue that too many garbage cans on the beach are an eye sore but considering their positive effect on the world, the two considerations are not even comparable.
on’t understand the consequences our earth and wildlife are left to face or maybe the sight of trashy streets and beaches do not faze them. That being the worse case, better access to trash cans and recycling containers can subconsciously make even the careless put their garbage in a proper place. Garbage is everywhere, but since our main focus here is the ocean, trash cans should be more accessible on beaches. I have been to countless beaches where there is no garbage can in sight. Many spend all day down by the water eating and drinking from plastic products and when the days is done, they leave their trash behind. Garbage/recycling cans and cigarette disposals should be placed about every 30 yards or so with the goal being one, people will use them, and two, the careless won’t feel that the trip to the can is too far out of their way. Some may argue that too many garbage cans on the beach are an eye sore but considering their positive effect on the world, the two considerations are not even comparable.
The popularity of plastic products has only increased since its invention. Today, countless items are being created and used by consumers who support them. Once plastic enters a trash can, it seems gone forever. Truth is, that plastic garbage will outlive the person who threw it away. Logically, a majority of plastic production should be federally regulated and based off of a test following these simple criteria: 1. If removed from the face of the earth, there would be no negative effects. In fact the earth would benefit; 2. There is no logical reason for its existence; 3. It can easily be replaced with eco-friendly, simpler means. Littering fines should also increase. I have no doubt people will think twice about throwing trash on the ground if they are pinned with a hefty fine.
Reality is, most all people including myself, are not completely willing to alter their lives and boycott even the most ridiculous products. But, it must be understood that even the smallest change makes a difference. Plastic is not the most eco friendly invention but it will always remain, and our goal should be to keep it in a safe place. Recycle, reduce, re-use, and use a garbage can. The ocean is plagued by large amounts of plastic and there’s not much that can be done about it at this point. The only thing we can ultimately do is prevent any new plastic from entering our oceans!
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