Here we are August 2020, and the hashtag #trashtag has over 181K posts on Instagram. Just five short years ago, two ambassadors of the company UCO were on a trip. Their receipt flew out the window, and they were unable to retrieve it. So, they decided to pick up 100 pieces of litter to make up for theirs. This event ignited the early stages of the trash cleanup challenge. 

Fast forward to a challenge on Facebook for bored teens to start cleaning up garbage and litter. One thing led to another, and soon UCO was backing the idea to challenge everyone to pick up trash. The hashtag #trashtag seemed like the perfect fit to get this idea trending on social, and that it did. 

The trash cleanup challenge is raising awareness of plastics and pollution, especially in our oceans. #trashtag is another successful challenge that is helping to make the world a better place. 

Did you know, it's estimated that by 2050 our oceans will contain more plastics than fish, by weight? This is according to a 2016 report released by the World Economic Forum and Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (huffpost.com) 

Plastics that take years to decay are injuring and killing marine life in a variety of ways. Many animals die either by choking, suffocation, or starvation as their stomachs fill with plastic they can't digest. Likewise, toxins in marine life then make their way into our food chain. Thus, the problem is one that should concern everyone around the world. 

The same is true for garbage left behind in forests, or other areas, where wildlife is out searching for food. Moreso, landfills full of waste are releasing gases and pollutants into our atmosphere. As a result, our planet needs all of us to step up in big ways. Hence, the trash cleanup challenge is a great way to make a difference and support a great cause. 

So, you're feeling up for a trash cleanup challenge?! The best news is, you don't need much to begin. Whether you want to start in your neighborhood or head up to the mountains, trash is waiting for you. Post your images using the hashtag #outdoorroomba 

If you need a bag that makes disposing of and carrying waste easy, consider the Colony Cleanup Bag. It offers cleanliness and convenience all in one hands-free bag. Remember to snap a few pictures before you begin to clean up and then after. Then post them to your social media platform using the hashtag #trashtag. The great thing about picking up litter is you make a difference the moment you choose not to leave it on the ground. So, enjoy the fun of being part of a good cause, and the 'feel-good' feelings that accompany it. 

Right now, there is a debate going on between reusable versus biodegradable products. Which one is the best for the Earth? Which do consumers prefer? Will reusable cups be the wave of the future? The debate continues as companies follow the lead of their customers. Time will tell which route is best. In the meantime, where will you be putting your next cup

It may seem as though littering may be one of the lower priority problems in a community. Yet it impacts everybody in it. While there is not anything pretty about litter, there are not any benefits to it either. It affects our air quality and gravely impacts animals and their natural habitat. Remember, littering impacts our environment every time it happens. At Colony Cleanup, we encourage everyone to do their part, even if it isn't their garbage.