Asha Johnson

October 31^st ,2013

English Language             

Did you know that by simply throwing a waste item out the window of your car that you are not only hurting the environment but also yourself, and future generations? Litter is a growing epidemic in our Bahamaland and it is not trivial. It affects our waters because it can harm wildlife and tarnish the beauty of our blue seas which can lead to it having a major impact on Tourism our number one industry. It also is a breeding ground for vermin which can lead to plague and disease among citizens and poisoning for animals who consume the waste.  This detrimental practice must be halted but first we must know what to do in order to thwart it.

For us to see a change we must be that change. We all know that the main component in making a difference is ourselves; we must be the catalyst in creating a new pattern for the world to grasp.  The example we set will be followed by the generations that are blooming so firstly we must care about our surroundings and dispose of litter in trash bins instead of our domain. Parents must stop subconsciously littering and educate themselves so that they may educate their children. They should also enforce rules in the home to provide incentive for adolescents to dispose of waste properly. In addition schools can also educate students on litter and its effects on the environment and human beings.

However we are not alone in this and an even bigger component in change is The Government who set laws to enforce them. I believe the Government should take a serious interest in Littering as it can be detrimental to this “clean , green and pristine” environment. They should come up with initiatives to encourage citizens to take pride in their surrounding such as Bahamas National Pride Association Best Kept Yard contests in addition to anti-litter campaigns and environmental projects. There should also be more severe repercussions for littering such as increased jail time in grave situations or imposed fines. In a like manner they can make provision for improved waste facilities as well as give surveillance to litter prone areas such as fast food restaurants. Furthermore Garbage can be given to farmers to be composted and used as fertilizers.

In conclusion, let’s team up to clean up!  The change begins with each and every one of us and with a change of attitude and dedication we can keep the Bahamas Clean, Green and Pristine, remember every litter bit hurts.