A new year is a perfect time to reset and reorganize. I don’t know about you, but I love a list. Lists keep us on task, help us stay focused on what is most important, and keep us accountable for our actions. I have to-do lists on my phone, on multiple sticky notes around my desk, and in my calendar. Nothing is more satisfying than crossing off items from lists! Looking at all the to-do lists on my desk got me thinking…”What kind of list can we create to help others make a difference with litter in our state?” After coming across an old David Letterman episode on TV, I was inspired to make a Top 10 List… So here goes!
Top 10 Ways You Can Make a Difference with Litter in Alabama:
10) Keep a Trash Receptacle in Your Vehicle.
Whether this is a grocery bag or something you have purchased that is a little fancier, having a place for wrappers to go is key! See our request on page 14 to share your car trash receptacles with us!
9) Secure Trash in the Back of Trucks.
We see it all the time… Truck beds become wind tunnels on the interstate! From small bags of fast food to large boxes, if it isn’t secured, it will probably blow out. How about hosting a tarp giveaway in your community sponsored by PALS?
8) Report Illegal Dumping.
If you see an area that looks like it is becoming a problem, contact your county’s solid waste officer or local law
enforcement. PALS can help you contact the proper authority if you are not sure…
7) Lead by Example.
If you see a stray wrapper on your way into the store, pick it up and throw it away! You never know who is watching and what impact that might have!
6) Adopt-A-Mile or Stream Near You!
Visit www.alpals.org to learn more about the Adopt-A-Mile and Stream Programs and how to apply. There are nearly 1,000 miles adopted throughout the state. Let us help you find a mile near you to adopt!
5) Promote the Clean Campus Program.
Have your local schools sign up for the PALS Clean Campus Program to have access to curriculum ideas, a speaker to visit their school, contests for students, fun handouts and cleanup supplies!
4) Participate in the Alabama Coastal Cleanup.
The Alabama Coastal Cleanup is held on the 3rd Saturday of September each year. Make a plan to join us in 2026 to vacation and help our shorelines become litter-free!
3) Participate in the “Don’t Drop it on Alabama” Spring Cleanup.
Find a cleanup near you or start one of your own! The “Don’t Drop it on Alabama” Spring Cleanup sign up information can be found on page 14 in this newsletter or simply scan the QR code & be directed to the sign-up page. The 2025 Cleanup yielded over 800 tons of litter collected around the state! Wow! We are offering more supplies in 2026 such as grabbers and gloves.
2) Have PALS Representatives Come Meet with Your Community Leaders to Create a Litter Plan.
We are happy to meet with your local officials to create a litter plan for your community. We can thoroughly explain our programs and connect them with other successful counties that are having great results in keeping our roadways litter-free.
1) Don’t Litter!
This one is self-explanatory!
I realize that if you received this newsletter, you are already likely onboard with many of the points on this list. With that in mind, maybe the most important thing you can do is share this list with others around you! PALS is here to help you with the litter issues in your community. We have seen great strides made in the state, but there is always more work to do. Our Members, Volunteers, Board of Directors, Corporate Sponsors,
and Partners are truly the best out there. We could not do this important work without your friendship and support.
It is my sincerest hope that each of you have a blessed 2026 and find ways to make meaningful connections in your communities. Coming together with a common goal is one of the best ways to build community pride. As you turn the pages of this PALS Prints edition, please notice the smiles and pride among these great volunteers! It is always fun to see the camaraderie that comes from spending time together making a difference! And, if you have anything else to add to our list or other ideas to share, please send me an email anytime at [email protected]. Thank you again for an amazing 2025, and we look forward to a stellar 2026!
– Jamie Mitchell