Littering is one of the most pervasive environmental issues that continues to plague our planet since the end of the XIX century. While it may seem like a small issue to some, the truth is that the magnitude of the littering problem is greater than we might think. It affects wildlife, damages ecosystems and contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in our oceans.
Actually, the global littering crisis is so severe that it’s estimated that more than 8 million tons of plastic enter the ocean each year. This has disastrous effects on marine life and our planet’s health. But the issue doesn’t stop at the oceans—littering is an eyesore that impacts communities, public spaces and even our own health.
The Magnitude of the littering Problem
Did you know that over 5 trillion pieces of plastic are currently floating in our oceans?
- Each minute, around 13 million cigarette butts are thrown away. Source: WHO
- Plastic in the Ocean: By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish (by weight) in the world’s oceans. Source: Ellen MacArthur
- Plastic Bottles: 1 million plastic bottles are sold every minute. Less than 50% are recycled. Source: WWF
When litter ends up in our streets, waterways, or natural habitats, it doesn’t disappear quickly. Many items can take centuries, or even longer to break down and decompose completely. Here are some startling facts about the decomposition of common trash:
- Milk Carton: 5 years
- Aluminum Can: 100 years
- Plastic Bottle: Over 500 years
- Plastic Bag: 500 years
- Cigarette Butt: 10 years (A cigarette butt can pollute up to 500 liters of water!)
- Glass Bottle: 4,000 years
- Battery: Over 100 years
- Chewing Gum: 5 years
These numbers show how long it takes for trash to naturally decompose. With this in mind, it’s clear that the problem of littering is not going away anytime soon. In fact, it’s only growing, with billions of pieces of plastic ending up in our oceans every year. Every piece of litter we drop has a lasting effect and even small, seemingly harmless items can have a huge environmental impact (microplastics)
Why This Is a Global Crisis
You don’t have to be a global activist to make a difference. Each of us can take small actions to reduce littering in our communities, and when we all come together, the impact is undeniable. Join us in taking action and help us tackle the litter crisis that is affecting our planet today.
The CSFN app makes it simple and rewarding to get involved. Whether you’re picking up litter solo or joining a group cleanup, every effort counts. And the best part? You’re helping to reduce the environmental footprint of waste, keep our streets clean, and protect wildlife from the dangers of litter.
The Power of Community Cleanups
When you participate in a community cleanup, you’re not just helping to pick up trash—you’re contributing to the solution. With the CSFN app, you can easily track your progress, inspire others, and take part in challenges that create positive, lasting change.
Through collective action, we can drastically reduce the amount of litter in our communities, decrease the harmful effects of pollution, and set an example for others to follow. Join us today and become part of the solution! Do you believe in a litter-free world?
How You Can Get Involved
If you’re ready to make a real impact, it’s easy to get started. Download the CSFN app today and begin participating in cleanup activities around you. With every piece of litter you pick up, you’re helping to reduce the magnitude of the littering problem.
Together, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations. Join Clean Something For Nothing, and let’s take action—one piece of litter at a time!
