Texas is known for many things, but an accolade residents can certainly do without is the state's persistent struggle with litter on its highways. According to a recent report by TxDOT, the Lone Star State spends a whopping $50 million annually to clean up debris from its roads.
The problem persists despite the iconic 'Don't mess with Texas' campaign that's been touting anti-litter messages since 1985. The original intent was crystal clear: keep Texas roads free of trash. Yet, TxDOT finds itself consistently trying to ensure road safety and aesthetics. While the campaign has helped, with a reported 63% decrease in large litter from 2013 to 2023, it's clear that some Texans need to be more diligent in not accidentally contributing to this ongoing issue.
Litter, defined by TxDOT, comes in sizes from the large — mattresses or soda cans more than two inches in length or width — to the minuscule cigarette butts that many mistakenly think will just disappear. However, as TxDOT explains, "Most cigarette filters are made from cellulose acetate, a plastic that takes about 15 years to decompose after being thrown to the side of the road." And that doesn't even account for the fire risk associated with carelessly discarded lit cigarettes.
In their ongoing battle against roadside disorder, TxDOT crews clear around 362 million pieces of litter every year. Texans can drastically help in this effort by always having to secure their loads, especially when driving a pickup truck, to prevent items from becoming a flying hazard or adding to the litter lining on roadways. Failing to do this can not only cause danger but also carry a fine of up to $2,000, as stated by TxDOT's guidelines.
Community involvement is also a significant piece of the clean-up puzzle. Texans are encouraged to take direct action by adopting highway segments to maintain or by participating in the annual Don't mess with Texas Trash-off event every April. It's a collective effort to uphold the pride of Texas's highways and to maintain the environment. For those interested, more information about these initiatives can be found on the Don’t mess with Texas website.
With a growing population and continuing challenges, the fight against Texas's litter is an all-hands-on-deck situation. It's clear that if Texans can come together and take personal responsibility, the beloved roads of the state can once again be clear of the trash that plagues them.
