Doing our part for the environment can be a daunting or overwhelming concept. Many residents feel that they have to ‘get everything right’ or know all of the answers to sustainability problems in order to make a positive change in our environment. In reality, our environment is an ever-changing landscape; new products line the shelves daily and our infrastructure is repeatedly rebuilt over the years. Keeping our planet protected during this action means starting in our own corner of the planet first and making just one change at a time to see if it works for you. Keep reading for some simple ways to try to make a positive environmental change in your neighborhood!
Follow the law on illegal waste dumping.
In Prince William County, it is “unlawful for any person to drop, deposit, discard, or otherwise dispose of litter in or on any public or private property within the county, including but not restricted to any street, sidewalk, [or] park, [—] except in public receptacles, [—] or in an area designated by the state department of waste management as a permitted disposal site.” (Sec. 22-151.) All violations are punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
Dumping household waste or big items, such as old mattresses, furniture, etc., in public creates a dangerous environment for the wildlife who inhabit the area, and for all residents. If you see dumped objects or illegal dumping occurring in your community, report the sighting to the Prince William County Police non-emergency line at 703-792-6500.
Use sustainable practices at home.
Finding new purposes for waste (through donation, up-cycling, etc.) is a great way to help promote a clean, healthy environment. Lessening the demand on natural resources protects the quality of our farmers’ soil, our drinking water, and the air we breathe; This also extends the lifetime of our existing landfills, encouraging sanitary neighborhoods and a thriving natural habitat. There are countless ways to cut back on waste that may work for you, such as:
Opting for digital over paper copies
Shopping locally/in bulk
Choosing aluminum, paper, or cardboard packaging before plastic
Avoiding single-use products
Composting food waste
Donating/recycling old clothing or furniture
Review the county recycling guidelines to ensure you’re recycling the right materials (Did you know plastic bags are not recyclable? Find out more here.)
Maintain litter on your street.
Every neighbor has a role in keeping their street free of litter. Many hands make for light work—meet with yours to work together!
Plan a litter cleanup
Keep trash contained & protected from wind
Remove litter from around storm drains
Plan a neighborhood beautification project
Report any illegal dumping
