People often litter because they are lazy or can't be bothered to find a garbage can for their trash, but when everyone litters it can have an effect on our environment. In addition to the bad effect ocean trash may have on sea life, it often washes up on shore into ugly messes on our beaches and shorelines. Litter on land can be just as ugly, as the wind catches paper and plastic and traps it against trees in parks and along fences and hedges. Picking up litter not only gets rid of the ugly mess, it also keeps our pets and wildlife from eating it or being hurt by it. After picking up litter for a while, you'll see how addictive it can be. It feels good to clean up the planet!

Don't add to the mess. Never litter. Not even a toothpick. After a while you will wonder how you ever dropped litter. You will notice when people litter cigarette butts or paper. It will amaze you to see them toss trash. If you are planning an outing at the park or beach, always bring a trash bag and clean up every speck of trash you make. Never leave anything behind except footprints!

At the end of the day dispose of trash and donate the bag of recyclables to a school group that is collecting bottles for a fundraiser. Feel great about getting exercise, hanging out with friends, and helping the environment!