Asheville Reporter

Teams of community members and leaders in Asheville recently took to the streets for the annual Spring Litter Sweep. The City of Asheville employees participated in the cleanup efforts, with a lunchtime cleanup in downtown resulting in the collection of about 30lbs of trash.

While the official totals for the entire event are still pending, the sanitation staff has shared positive news regarding the progress made. This year's cleanup efforts, in collaboration with NCDOT and Asheville GreenWorks, have shown a change in the type of litter collected in downtown Asheville compared to previous years. The focus this year was mainly on small pieces of plastic and cigarette butts, indicating a positive shift in the cleanliness of the area.

Asheville GreenWorks encourages community members to make use of cigarette butt receptacles attached to trash cans downtown or dispose of them appropriately. Additionally, the organization offers support for organizing cleanup events throughout the year, providing necessary supplies and coordinating trash pick up as needed.

Residents are invited to participate in future Spring Litter Sweeps, which are traditionally held in the last two weeks of April and September as part of the N.C. Department of Transportation's statewide litter removal initiative. By getting involved, individuals can experience both physical and mental health benefits while contributing to a cleaner environment and connecting with the community.

To further support the cleanliness efforts in Asheville, community members can report roadside litter concerns to the City through various platforms, including the Asheville App, email, and customer service hotline.

In conclusion, Asheville's Spring Litter Sweep has shown promising results this year, with a noticeable decrease in certain types of litter collected. The ongoing efforts of community members, organizations, and city officials are crucial in maintaining a clean and environmentally friendly Asheville.