"Litterbugs" can be found among people of every age, sex, race and ethnic origin, at every level of society and in all geographic locations.

• Litter threatens the quality of our environment and is a problem that affects everyone in the community.

•  Litter costs money. Last year, the Missouri Department of Transportation and taxpayers spent more than $1 million for roadside cleanup in the Kansas City District alone. This money could have been allocated for some needed roadway improvements across Missouri. 

• Litter destroys the beauty of the community. Tourism is important to Missouri and its economy. Litter can give a poor impression to visitors.  

• Litter is a safety hazard and can act as a breeding ground for fire and disease. 

• Litter can impact insurance rates as accidents can result from litter debris. 

• Litter can discourage the opportunity for economic development and impacts real estate values. Businesses will not locate in a community that appears blighted based on the amount of trash and where the community lacks in pride to effectively control litter problems.

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