About month ago, I asked for stepped up clean up effort as it became clear that trash was fouling our roadsidesTrips outside the state further confirmed that Delaware has a big problem.The News Journal has now chimed in on the topic and views the situation an embarrassment.
The newspaper and website had earlier focused on construction debris in Sussex County.
Obviously, there are many reasons for the current state of affairs. One involves a haphazard waste management system in the state with a Delaware Solid Waste Authority that has few powers and seemingly little interest on the curbside level.
In the current climate, it it is hard to detect scofflaws who save a few bucks a month by using the nearest dumpster or roadside.
Others just don’t care and toss out all types of trash. Yard waste is another issue with a system in place that encourages homeowners to dump leaves, branches and worse in the woods.
The News Journal has proposed a trash day. That’s one good idea. Big fines, cameras in dumping areas and stepped up enforcement for littering are also necessary.
It is time for the Legislature, county government and the Markell Administration to put this issue on the front burner. Littering has reached the point that has become a threat to the business climate and tourism.
