Litter is a Huge Problem - What Can Be Done to Stop It? - The Orfe EcoArt Program Suggests Some Ideas

Litter may seem like a small problem, but it is directly connected to a variety of environmental issues such as the climate crisis and increased waste production and mismanagement. On a local level, litter has negatively impacted our water, air, land and the health of our local communities. Despite our society’s current inability to tackle the issue of litter, the Orfe EcoArt Program team is committed to being a part of an accessible solution through the promotion of education and civic engagement.
 
The Orfe EcoArt Program is an organization that has spent many years using the power of education and art to provide children and youth with the tools and knowledge to create and inspire positive environmental change. Its curriculum is focused on pressing environmental issues such as pollution, waste and overconsumption among others. While the Orfe team is a group of dedicated educators and artists, they are also members of a vibrant urban community. Lately, they have become increasingly concerned about the prevalence of litter within their neighbourhoods. They have been working together to identify how this program can better serve their local and global communities concerning the issue of litter.
 
Through engaging with the various workshops offered by the Orfe EcoArt Program, youth will be exposed to a wide range of knowledge, skills and tools that can be applied to a host of environmental issues, including litter. Its environmental curriculum is built around detailed environmental guidelines, which are in accordance with strategies used by the Canadian government and international environmental initiatives. One of their biggest successes can be found in their ability to familiarize students with creative and exciting ways to repurpose, reuse and reduce materials common in their everyday lives. They also take the time to introduce children to an array of waste management concepts, which will allow them to better understand and navigate their local cities’ waste management policies.
 
In order to reach a larger audience, the Orfe EcoArt Program has always been committed to serving as a partner and collaborator with schools and teachers to provide a new approach to science, technology, engineering and math education, which involves the use of art and creativity to engage and empower children. They aim to provide children with environmental knowledge and essential skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, while also encouraging the expression of confidence and innovative ideas. They pride themselves in their ability to create a solid foundation for children to develop such skills through providing a curriculum that centers creativity, joy, collaboration, exploration, and community building. Their unique approach to education is rooted within their mission to not only educate children but to provide them with the space to be inspired to spark change through sharing their knowledge and starting initiatives within their local and global community.
 
While environmental issues such as litter may seem too widespread for a single person to generate lasting change, the Orfe team recognizes the power that youth hold. Instead of viewing littering as an individual problem that can only be solved by a leader or a hero, they would like to suggest an approach that repositions litter as a problem that affects our entire community, with a solution that must be approached from multiple levels, through the actions of leaders, united communities, and individuals. We all have a role to play in creating a safer, cleaner, and healthier community and children are an essential part of our community. The Orfe team would also like to extend their passion for environmental education to their online readers and provide some information to inspire community action for every individual, regardless of their ability to participate in the Orfe EcoArt Program.
 
Here are a few ideas that all levels of the community can act on collectively or individually to improve the health of our neighbourhoods:
 
Do not throw litter on the ground.
One of the easiest things you can do to prevent the accumulation of litter is to place it in the proper garbage bin or hold onto it until you can safely and responsibly dispose of it.
 
When you have spare time, take a walk around your local neighbourhood or park and collect litter.
Collecting litter is a simple and accessible activity that can inspire community building, care and collaboration from all age groups.
 
Ensure that your trash is securely placed in the garbage bin.
Many of us have seen city-run garbage bins overflowing. When you notice that a garbage bin may not be able to securely hold your trash due to structural or capacity issues, do not use it.
 
Reduce your ecological footprint and avoid buying single-use products.
One of the best ways to decrease litter is to reduce the amount of trash that you personally generate. Individuals and communities should consider exploring the impact of the products that they consume and how they can substitute reusable items for single-use items.
 
For more information visit the Orfe EcoArt Program website at: www.orfeart.com
We would love to hear from our community! Send us a message at: info@orfeart.com