اشترِك في نشرتنا الإخبارية
Maintaining a clean public space is very important, and in Lebanon we have realized how essential this is, through the garbage crisis that recently took the country by storm.
Keeping a place clean requires joint efforts from the public authorities (the government, the municipalities, etc…) on one hand, and the people on the other hand. Since our early days, local authorities have been legally responsible for clean public spaces, but in order to succeed in doing so, citizens need to be part of the process.
People are less likely to litter in areas that are kept clean, therefore it is crucial for authorities to adopt a cleaning system that is easily applied by everybody. This can be done by putting more garbage bins with clear instructions in strategic areas and collecting waste.
Applying a “reward / sanction” policy also helps in this matter. For example, offering tokens in exchange for plastic or metals, or even implementing severe sacnctions against those who do not abide by the rules in order to develop their sense of responsibility.
Strategies must be clear and feasible so all citizens will be able to preserve the
cleanliness of public spaces.
One more thing authorities should do is support and research certain matters to address the littering problem. They should be better informed about the quantities, the composition and the cost of garbage. Besides, they should figure out potential solutions to the problem.
Education on how to keep public spaces clean should start at a very young age. Campaigns in schools may help spread awareness amongst young people. Organizing day trips to clean shores or forests could help students, who are the builders of our future, realize the importance of keeping the environment clean and totally free of pollution.
Raising public awareness among residents, businesses, and tourists in cities in order to reduce waste and improve cleanliness in the streets is definitely a key factor in preventing and resolving the issue. Collective actions are indispensable to keep our environment clean and healthy.
Christa Kanaan
Collège de la Sainte Famille- Fanar
