The issue of abandoned shopping carts clogging up city waterways in San Jose has gained significant attention recently. According to Joshua Lopez, a representative of the South Bay Clean Creeks Coalition, a volunteer-based group that works to clear local waterways in San Jose, the problem is more extensive than just shopping carts.
Lopez stated, "You start seeing a little more interesting things. You start seeing stuff, like building material too, but you also see things like car parts" (Yahoo News, 2023). The coalition's efforts to restore certain areas off of rivers and creeks have resulted in the removal of around 2,000 shopping carts from waterways this year, with over 500 cleanups conducted.
The impact of abandoned shopping carts on the environment is significant. Lopez explained that these carts can become "like cages to the salmon as they're coming in" and if there's not enough water in the waterway, the fish can end up getting trapped (Yahoo News, 2023). San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan also weighed in on the issue, stating that "not only is the cost unfair to taxpayers, but the blight is unfair to residents.
It's destructive of the environment" (Yahoo News, 2023).
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a crucial role in shaping the country's environmental waste management policy. Established in 1970, the EPA is responsible for protecting human health and the environment by enforcing laws and regulations related to pollution and waste management (EPA, 2022). One of the key areas of focus for the EPA is the management of municipal solid waste, which includes household trash, recyclables, and organic materials.
The agency works with state and local governments to develop and implement effective waste management strategies, including recycling programs, composting initiatives, and waste-to-energy technologies. Effective environmental waste management policy requires a multifaceted approach that involves not only government agencies but also private sector companies and individual citizens.
Many companies are now adopting sustainable waste management practices, such as reducing packaging waste, increasing recycling rates, and implementing waste-to-energy programs (Environmental Leader, 2020). For example, some companies are using biodegradable packaging materials, while others are implementing recycling programs for electronic waste.
Individuals can make a significant impact by reducing their own waste generation, reusing products whenever possible, and recycling materials such as paper, plastic, and glass.
According to the EPA, in 2019, Americans generated about 292 million tons of municipal solid waste, with about ← →
Related perspectives: See hereJoshua Lopez is with the South Bay Clean Creeks Coalition, a volunteer-based group that works to clear local waterways in San Jose.• • • •
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