What America's latest litter research reveals
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Keep America Beautiful has been conducting litter research for decades, beginning with the landmark studies that established the benchmark for understanding litter behavior in the United States. In this latest national study, researchers returned to hundreds of locations across the country to measure changes in litter levels and better understand the factors influencing environmental and human behavior.
The findings offer reasons for optimism. Litter along U.S. roadways and waterways declined by 34% since the previous national study, representing billions fewer pieces of litter in the environment. Yet the research also highlights ongoing challenges, including significant increases in tire debris and cardboard waste, reflecting changes in consumer habits and transportation patterns.
Beyond the numbers, David explains why litter is fundamentally a people issue. The conversation explores how education, infrastructure, and community engagement influence behavior, why cleaner places contribute to stronger local economies and safer neighborhoods, and what it will take for America to continue making progress toward a litter-free future.
Listen for Insights On
What the latest national litter research reveals about America today
Why litter is fundamentally a human behavior challenge
The 34% decline in litter across U.S. roadways and waterways
What changing litter patterns reveal about modern consumer behavior
Why cardboard waste is increasing in the age of e-commerce
The environmental and public health concerns surrounding tire waste
The connection between cleaner communities, tourism, safety, and economic vitality
Why education, infrastructure, and maintenance are all necessary to reduce litter
How community cleanup efforts are creating new forms of civic engagement
What individuals, businesses, and governments can do to help create litter-free communities
Before You Listen
Q: Why does litter matter beyond environmental concerns?
A: David explains that cleaner communities create benefits that extend well beyond environmental protection. Research shows that clean and attractive places support local businesses, strengthen tourism, improve property values, enhance quality of life, and contribute to safer neighborhoods. Addressing litter creates positive outcomes across multiple community priorities.
Q: What was the most encouraging finding from the study?
A: The research found a 34% reduction in litter along U.S. roadways and waterways compared to the previous national study. While billions of pieces of litter still remain, the findings demonstrate that progress is possible when communities, organizations, businesses, and residents work together.
Q: Why is litter considered a behavioral issue?
A: Rather than focusing on identifying "litter bugs," David argues that everyone has the potential to make either good or bad decisions. Successful litter prevention focuses on reducing the likelihood of littering through education, accessible infrastructure, and community engagement.
Q: What solutions actually work?
A: Keep America Beautiful's research points to a combination of education, convenient waste and recycling infrastructure, ongoing maintenance, and consistent measurement. Communities that invest in these approaches can significantly reduce litter and improve overall quality of life.
About David Scott
David Scott, Ph.D., is Senior Vice President of Data and Research for Keep America Beautiful. He oversees research in support of the Keep America Beautiful mission, and data and evaluation strategies to help understand the impact of the organization and its network of more than 600 community-based affiliates.
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