How Does Littering Affect the Environment?
But how does litter hurt our green spaces?
Polluting Earth, Air, & Water
Over time litter degrades into micro-particles, and as it does so it moves deeper and deeper into the environment. Chemicals also leach out of products like cigarette butts and can end up in our freshwater sources. Burned litter also releases toxins, polluting the air.
Killing Wildlife
A well-known and understood fact of litter is how it can endanger wildlife. Animals can get caught in it and also try to eat it. Unfortunately, the story of litter and wild animals rarely ends well.
Spreads Disease
Litter is garbage, and as such, it can carry bacteria, viruses, and parasites into sensitive environments. Animals and humans can become ill from improperly disposed of litter.
Aside from everyone taking responsibility for their garbage, solutions to removing litter include attending clean-ups, asking government agencies to enforce stricter littering laws, and increasing the number of available garbage bins.
Comments
Post a Comment