The Environment



Litter

What is litter?
Litter is the name to given to rubbish that has not been properly disposed of. Litter can be anything from sweet wrappers to larger objects such as crisp packets, banana skins, plastic bottles etc.

Why is litter bad?
Litter can be dangerous to all living things. It can suffocate animals and plants. Humans (and animals) can cut themselves on sharp or broken litter. Animals can mistake litter for food and eat it. Animals can also accidentally ensnare themselves in litter, trapping them and thus eventually maiming or killing them. Litter can also release deadly poisons into the ground (or water) when it decomposes and breaks down. Also the more litter there is in a street, it can create feelings of helplessness, degradation and depression with the residents who live in the area.

Why do people litter?
All the litter seen in the streets, in the countryside, on beaches etc all come from humans. Sometimes people think that someone else will pick up the rubbish they have thrown - 'it is someone else's job'! Also If an area is already heavily littered some people might throw more rubbish thinking their little bit of litter won't make any difference. Some people may also throw their litter if the litter bins nearby are full and there is nowhere else convenient to leave their rubbish.

What is being done about it?
Blackburn with Darwen Borough council takes littering very seriously. If you are caught littering you can be fined £75 or even prosecuted. We have numerous officers who patrol the borough both on foot and in vehicles and all have the power and authority to issues fines. If you see anybody littering or fly tipping please call B-Direct on 01254 585921



Click here to go back to the list of articles


Become an Eco Hero!

Make a difference to the environemnt in your area and win an award! Click on Recycling Rover below for more details.



Recycling Rover

.