NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In an effort to keep Tennessee clean, the Tennessee department of Transportation, local grocery stores and other organizations are holding "Nobody Trashes Tennessee" events across the state.
Beginning Friday, free, reusable bags will be distributed to the public at 483 grocery stores. The bags will feature the logo of TDOT's "Nobody Trashes Tennessee" litter prevention campaign, as well as campaign partners Keep Tennessee Beautiful and the Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association.
Stores in all 95 counties will also host booths or displays of local governments and non-profits conducting "Great American Cleanup" events this spring.
"Hosting reusable bags events such as this is an excellent way for our grocers to connect to the public and their communities," Rob Ikard, President of the Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association, explained.
Stores included are listed below:
- Kroger
- Food City
- Food Lion
- Associated Wholesale Grocers
- Publix
- Mitchell Grocery
- Piggly Wiggly
Officials say a lot of research was done prior to the launch of the "Nobody Trashes Tennessee" campaign. It showed roadside trash is down 53 percent. However, litter is still a big problem for the state.
- There are still an estimated 100 million pieces of trash on Tennessee roadways.
- 30 percent of the state's litter is deliberate meaning trash is tossed right out of vehicle windows.
- Increase in litter among females age 16 to 34.
- TDOT spends more than $15 million annually cleaning up litter.
"The good news is the research showed that nine out of 10 Tennesseans are more likely to properly dispose of their trash after learning about the statewide litter problem," Commissioner Clay Bright added. "We believe this campaign can make a difference and potentially save highway maintenance funds for other needed road projects."
