Illegal Dumping of junk and waste
Illegal dumping of junk and waste has become a huge problem across the United States. Not only is it polluting our environment, but it is also negatively impacting our wildlife and their habitat.
It is not uncommon to find household trash, construction debris, old appliances, old furniture, and other miscellaneous items dumped in the woods, along roadsides, and at non-solid waste dumping facilities. This trend is on the rise, with the problem worsening year after year.
Let’s start off by addressing what illegal dumping of junk and waste is.
By definition, illegal dumping of junk and waste is depositing solid waste at a location other than a legally accepted facility.
Common examples of illegal dumping:
· Disposing of trash in dumpsters or containers that you do not own
· Disposing of trash along public roads or in vacant lots, fields, wooded areas, streams or any other unacceptable location
· Disposing of chemicals, pesticides, used automotive fluids, and other pollutants into storm drains, waterways, or on the ground
· Disposing of yard waste (leaves, grass clippings, brush, etc.) by tossing it over the fence or dumping it in a nearby wooded area
· Burning solid waste
· Burying solid waste
The examples listed above are considered unlawful and those who are caught committing these offenses may face prosecution or may pay a fine. If you witness anyone illegally dumping junk and waste, you should report it to your local law enforcement center. If you come across improperly disposed waste, please contact your local government office.
So how can we stop illegal dumping of junk and waste?
For starters, education! Reaching the population through education within our communities can significantly help in reducing and/or solving some of our illegal dumping problems. Education creates awareness and encourages positive involvement.
Another way to reduce and/or stop illegal dumping is to practice the three R’s: “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.” Everyone should always try to reduce the amount of waste they generate and recycling is a great way to start. To learn more about how you can reduce, reuse, and recycle, visit https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/reduce-reuse-recycle.php.
Finally, you can contact your local donation centers and check if the items you want to get rid of are accepted for donation.
Let’s work together and put an end to illegal dumping of junk and waste!