Why is it bad for water quality?

One of the most visible pollutants entering storm drains or littering our waterways is trash. Trash and debris from streets, parking lots, neighborhoods, businesses, and construction sites all accumulate in storm drains and ultimately end up on our beaches. Fast food wrappers, cigarette butts, bottles and cans are a few of the commonly found trash items polluting our waterways. Not only is trash an eyesore, but can harm aquatic habitats and life.

What can we do to reduce or prevent storm water pollution?

There are many simple things we can do to prevent storm water pollution and help protect the water quality of our local waterbodies, although the number of pollutants might seem overwhelming. By incorporating simple, daily changes in our routine or activities, preventing storm water pollution will not seem like such a dramatic change to our lifestyle.Throw litter in designated trash bins only. Avoid throwing even the smallest piece of litter on the ground, despite how insignificant it looks all litter accumulates into a big problem for waterbodies.

Recycle, recycle, recycle. It not only saves landfill space, but protects our natural resources. You can recycle plastics, metals, glass and newspaper in the convenience of your own home through Waste Management’s Curbside Recycling Program (116 KB).

Though you can’t recycle regular paper and magazines in curbside recycling bins, you can take it to one of many central locations and drop it off. Waste Management’s Mixed Paper Recycling Program (105 KB) is a great way to recycle all that pesky junk mail, magazines and computer paper filling up your trash bin.

If you see litter, pick it up. If everyone starting cleaning up their neighborhoods, people would be less likely to litter and we’d have cleaner streets.

Make sure your trash can lids are on tight. Loose lids can be knocked or blown off easily, allowing litter to scatter on the street.

Household Hazardous Waste cannot be thrown out with your regular garbage, it must be taken to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center (132 KB). These hazardous wastes are harmful to the environment and can cause a lot of pollution if not properly disposed. For further information, click on the link, or call Waste Management at 760-439-2824.

What do the laws say about trash?

It is illegal to litter and recycling is required by law.