Solution

Combating Highway Litter

Highway litter is a serious problem, but it’s one we can fix by working together. Clear Roads Clean Future focuses on three main solutions:

1. Stricter Fines and Enforcement

States that increased littering fines saw clear reductions in roadside waste (Conroy-Ben & Christensen). Enforcing these fines consistently and using signs and cameras to discourage littering ensures people understand there are real consequences for polluting our highways. Currently, on the main Gretna highways, there are no such signs to deter people from littering.

2. Public Education and Awareness

One of the biggest reasons people litter is a lack of awareness about the long-term impact of their actions; they fail to see how they are contributing to such a large problem. Educational campaigns are a great way to educate people on the effects of highway litter. A great example of this is “Don’t Mess with Texas,” which reduced litter by 72% in just one year (Forbes). We aim to raise awareness through:

• Social media

• School programs

• Community campaigns

• Highway signs and local partnerships

• This website was also created to educate people and raise awareness of the issue.

3. Community Cleanups

Local cleanup events bring people together and make a direct, visible difference. Mrs. Arnold, the Green Team sponsor, found that student-led cleanups build pride and accountability, showing that even small groups can have a big impact. Cleanups also:

• Beautify our Gretna community

• Protects wildlife

• Prevents litter from reaching waterways so that we all have safe drinking water

• Encourages better habits through action

Why These Solutions Work

• Fines discourage people from littering by attaching real consequences to their actions.

• Education spreads awareness and shifts behavior, especially among young people. 

• Community cleanups allow people to get involved and see how much trash ends up on highways. After a highway clean-up, people would see the effort it takes to clean the litter and thus be less encouraged to litter there afterward.