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Noticing that the damage to our roads and litter is a problem is the first step in creating a cleaner, more sustainable Bibb County. The next step is taking action. Coming together as ONE community and working with our local organizations to create meaningful change should be prioritized in 2022.
“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead
Written By Perron Bryant
March 24, 2022
During my time in Japan, I learned early on that living on a block meant you are automatically a member of that community regardless of race, religion, or nationality. I often would receive emails about Saturday or Sunday morning cleanup days.
For a few hours, members of the community would meet outside of their homes and split up into groups. The mission was simple: remove litter and waste within our designated area. The mission was a very tedious job, to say the least, especially on our most coveted off days. But with garbage bags in hand and the family-like spirit of working together. The hard work and collaboration resulted in a clean, litter-free area. After a long day at work, there’s just something about coming home to a clean and friendly environment.
“It’s an eyesore to see all that trash,” as one Brent community member said; garbage disrupts the very critical ecosystem of our environment. Litter attracts various insects, which can infect rodents with multiple diseases. It can be hazardous for our children and pets, which can pick up, step on, or eat garbage, resulting in these “mystery illnesses” that show up in our population. Cigarette butts and flammable materials – can also start forest fires. Food waste can contaminate waterways and damage wildlife, and make our water unsafe to drink.
Every day we can see litter found on our roads, in our backyards, in familiar places such as parks and schools, and natural areas such as woods or streams. It may seem very difficult to deal with the garbage problem in your area alone, but even a small effort can improve your neighborhood.
To combat this seemingly impossible task, ask some friends and invest an hour or more in repairing your block. Be prepared to handle infectious trash, and you will see others following your lead. Your efforts will be a source of pride for your community.
Keep Alabama Beautiful will be happy to provide you with cleaning tools and trash bags. Involving your community in neighborhood cleaning can be a great way to raise awareness in your area.
Keep Alabama Beautiful (KALB) is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that operates in Alabama and believes that everyone deserves to live in a clean and healthy environment. http://keepalabamabeautiful.org/
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BY PERRON BRYANT
Perron Bryant is a Bibb County Media community affairs reporter focused on culture, media and politics.
