Philly’s litter problem

Listen 48:59
Kensington Avenue and F streets is rated a “4” on Philadelphia’s Litter Index.

Kensington Avenue and F streets is rated a “4” on Philadelphia’s Litter Index. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

Guests: Ryan Briggs, Nic Esposito, Mike Newall, Leonard Stewart

Philadelphia has a litter problem. Neighborhoods all over town are covered in garbage, debris, and unwanted junk. And it seems worse here than in other major cities. But why? And what can be done about it? Today, we’ll talk about the trash that coats our streets. WHYY’s RYAN BRIGGS will explain some of the politics around the litter issue and why parts of the city remains so dirty. Then, NIC ESPOSITIO, Zero Waste and Litter Director for the City of Philadelphia and MIKE NEWALL, columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer will offer their perspective on the initiatives, or lack thereof, when it comes to beautifying the city. We’ll also hear from LEONARD STEWART, board member of the Eastwick Friends and Neighbors Coalition about the illegal dumping issue in his neighborhood, and his efforts to stop it.

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