Local Environmental Problem : Litter Accumulation

I live in Carstreet, Mangalore. I have been in this locality since my childhood. I have fond memories of my locality. My locality is maintained very well. My locality is located in the centre of Mangalore and it has everything from schools, markets, hospitals to recreational centres like shopping malls and also places of worship. Inspite of so many facilities there is a very important environmental concern in my locality.

MY LOCALITY

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNSEven though my locality is developed there is a serious environmental concern which is accumulation of litter.

Litter ACCUMULATION

PROBLEM ANALYSISThe most common problem in our locality is the accumulation of litter. Even though the dust bins are provided, the people are either too busy or do not care to use the dust bins. Sometimes the stench due to the accumulation of litter becomes unbearable. Litter is the breeding ground of pests such as mosquitoes, flies and rodents such as rats. The litter is in the form of plastics, kitchen waste, garbage etc.

Non bio-degradable waste such as plastics decompose and pose a serious threat to the environment. Animals such as cows feed on plastics and face threat to their lives. Organic litter in large amounts can also cause water pollution. Used cigarettes can also cause fires if they are not put out and discarded in the environment. Shards of glass littered can also hurt the pedestrians.

PLAN OF ACTION Use the dust bins provided in the locality. Make use of garbage truck facility provided by

the MCC corporation. Erect suitable posters or sign board in the

appropriate areas to avoid the accumulation. Organise talks or awareness programs among

the people highlighting this problem. Avoid throwing plastics, used cans instead

reuse and recycle them.

Buy in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging waste.

Take part in Prime Minister’s Swachh Bharat program and clean the locality at least once in a week.

When taking out animals for a walk, take a litter bag with you.

Make sure that the trash can lids are securely attached and that the trash is not overflown.