Storm drains are designed to carry rainwater away from streets and neighborhoods to help prevent flooding. Unlike the sanitary sewer system, stormwater entering these drains is not treated before it flows into local retention basins, parks, washes, and groundwater systems.
Trash and cigarette butts discarded on streets, sidewalks, and parking lots are easily carried by rain and wind into storm drains, where they become a direct source of pollution. Keeping litter and smoking waste out of storm drains helps protect water quality, public spaces, and the health of our community.
Trash
When trash is left on the ground, it can be carried by wind or rain into the storm drain system. Once there, it can clog drains, contribute to localized flooding and pollute waterways. In the long run, bottles break down into microplastics, which can remain in the environment for long periods of time and impact water quality and wildlife.
What can be done?
- Don’t litter! Carry a bag for trash in your car
- Reuse and Recycle items whenever possible
- Make sure your trash cans have securely attached lids.
- Don’t’ overfill waste bins.
- Keep litter out of uncovered truck beds so they aren’t blown into the roads.
Cigarettes
Cigarettes are one of the biggest environmental offenders. A big misconception is they are biodegradable. They contain plastics, and just like bottles they remain in the environment for years. Cigarettes also release harmful chemicals such as arsenic and lead when washed into the stormwater system.
What can be done:
- Before lighting up, identify where you will dispose of your cigarette waste.
- Use ash/trays and trash receptacles.
- When traveling try alternatives like pocket or portable ash trays to hold your waste until you can dispose of it properly.
- Encourage others to follow these practices.