URGENT UPDATE: Tennessee has achieved a remarkable milestone in its 5th Annual No Trash November campaign, clearing over 77,000 pounds of litter from roads and waterways statewide. Authorities confirm that this effort was spearheaded by 2,470 volunteers across 205 cleanup events, exceeding the initial goal of 75,000 pounds.
Governor Bill Lee proclaimed November as No Trash November Month, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in maintaining the beauty of Tennessee. As part of this initiative, Keep Knoxville Beautiful emerged as the top performer, removing an impressive 13,971 pounds of litter during the campaign.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) not only focused on cleaning up but also highlighted educational programs aimed at promoting year-round litter prevention. The ongoing campaign engages a variety of organizations, including Keep Tennessee Beautiful affiliates, Litter Grant recipients, and youth groups like Girl Scouts and Scouts BSA.
Participants aged 13 and older can join the Trash Masters Rewards program, where they earn points for attending cleanup events and completing litter prevention quizzes. These points can be redeemed for discounts at local businesses or exclusive merchandise, fostering a culture of continuous participation.
TDOT’s efforts extend beyond cleanup, as educational components reward young volunteers. For instance, the Rocco the Raccoon patch is awarded after completing a third cleanup project, encouraging ongoing involvement among youth.
For further details and to get involved in future cleanup opportunities, visit the state’s litter prevention website at NobodyTrashesTennessee.com. The site serves as a hub for both educational resources and upcoming events, ensuring that the momentum from No Trash November continues throughout the year.
This year’s campaign highlights the power of community action in addressing environmental issues. As Tennessee celebrates this success, the focus now shifts to maintaining this momentum and continuing to engage citizens in the fight against litter.
