UPDATE: Tennessee’s 5th Annual No Trash November has concluded with an impressive total of 77,000 pounds of litter cleared from roads and waterways, exceeding the campaign’s goal of 75,000 pounds. This urgent initiative engaged 2,470 volunteers across 205 cleanup events, who collectively collected 3,596 bags of trash.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced these remarkable results, emphasizing the crucial role that community efforts play in maintaining a clean environment. Governor Bill Lee proclaimed November as No Trash November Month, highlighting the state’s commitment to litter prevention.
Leading the charge was Keep Knoxville Beautiful, which successfully removed an astonishing 13,971 pounds of litter from their local area. This initiative not only focuses on immediate cleanup but also integrates educational programs aimed at promoting litter prevention year-round.
The program leverages partnerships with Keep Tennessee Beautiful affiliates, Litter Grant recipients, and youth organizations, including Girl Scouts and Scouts BSA. Notably, young volunteers can earn the coveted Rocco the Raccoon patch after completing three cleanup projects, fostering a sense of accomplishment and ongoing engagement.
For participants aged 13 and older, the Trash Masters Rewards program is now active. Volunteers can earn points by attending cleanup events or taking litter prevention quizzes, with points redeemable for discounts at local businesses or exclusive merchandise. This innovative approach not only incentivizes participation but also cultivates a culture of environmental stewardship among younger generations.
With the campaign’s success, TDOT is urging citizens to remain proactive in litter prevention. For ongoing opportunities to participate and contribute, visit NobodyTrashesTennessee.com, the state’s dedicated litter prevention website.
As Tennessee celebrates this success, the community is reminded that the fight against litter continues beyond November. Every action counts in preserving the natural beauty of the state, and volunteers are encouraged to stay involved year-round.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming cleanup events and initiatives aimed at making Tennessee a cleaner and greener state!
