Litter and climate change

They may seem like two separate issues, but litter contributes to climate change in several indirect yet significant ways. When waste materials, particularly plastics, are left in the environment, they break down over time through exposure to sunlight, wind, and water. This degradation process releases greenhouse gases like methane and ethylene, which are both potent contributors to global warming.

Landfills and greenhouse gases

A lot of the litter collected from our streets ends up in landfills. While out of sight, these landfills are not out of mind when it comes to their environmental impact. 

Organic waste, such as food scraps and yard trimmings, decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen) in landfills, producing methane – a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.

Ocean pollution and carbon sequestration

Litter, particularly plastic waste, often finds its way into our waterways, eventually reaching the oceans. And this can cause even more problems.

The accumulation of plastic debris in marine environments disrupts the natural processes of carbon sequestration. Healthy ocean ecosystems, like coral reefs, play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When these systems are compromised by pollution, their ability to sequester carbon is diminished, furthering the effects of climate change.

Microplastics and soil health

When litter decomposes, it breaks into smaller particles known as microplastics. These particles contaminate soil, ruining its health and fertility. Healthy soils are vital for sequestering carbon and maintaining the balance of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. So when microplastics disrupt this balance, they impair the soil's ability to capture and store carbon effectively.