State launches litter campaign

The state recently launched Pick Up Pennsylvania, a campaign to reduce litter by encouraging community cleanups that will run through May 31.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful coordinates the campaign, and residents can visit the organization’s website to start a local event or register to participate in an organized event.

GLAD Products Co. is the event’s national sponsor. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will provide safety vests, trash bags, and gloves.

Throughout April, DEP and the Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association will sponsor free or reduced trash disposal for registered campaign participants at certain landfills.

“As we see increased trash around the state, we ask Pennsylvanians to start or join a litter cleanup event in their local community through Pick Up Pennsylvania,” Secretary Patrick McDonnell said. “Mask up, put on sturdy shoes and gloves, and head outside with a small group of family, buddies, or co-workers with supplies provided by the campaign. Even a small event makes an immediate impact.”

Other events throughout the campaign include a free online discussion to increase residents’ knowledge of litter’s negative impacts and an online question-and-answer session.

The video will be available in English and Spanish. The state encourages schools, local governments, community leaders, and others to share the video.