According to Let’s Do It!, a global organization helping to clean up illegal dump sites, there is approximately 100 million tons of illegal garbage lying around the world. It’s a problem that affects all parts of the United States, particularly big cities and rural areas.
\n\nIllegal dumping affects the environment, public health, and increases your taxes. Although the problem may be caused by relatively few people, it affects everyone. Luckily, cities across the country have stepped up enforcement and have raised awareness about the problem in recent years.
\n\nToday, technology makes it easier than ever to report illegal dumping sites to local authorities, and stiffer penalties have people thinking twice before tossing an old mattress or scrap tires on the side of the road. The information below describes a quick overview of the problem, the many consequences involved and solutions to the issue.
\n\nDepending on your local and state regulations, illegal dumping is a misdemeanor or felony punishable by jail time in some cases. Fines start at $50 for minor offenses and can reach up to thousands of dollars in some situations.
\n\nSome states are really cracking down on the problem and doling out tougher penalties to offenders. New Jersey, for instance, implemented a new plan in 2014 that will punish illegal dumpers with up to $50,000 fines, forfeiture of vehicles involved in the dumping, and possible jail time.
\n\nNew Jersey’s “Don’t Waste Our Open Space” campaign consists of a statewide crackdown of illegal dumping, involving the use of hidden cameras strategically positioned at common dump sites and public involvement to ID offenders when necessary. Learn more about this initiative here.
\n\nIs there a difference between littering and illegal dumping?
\n\nIn most states, yes. Litter is generally defined as a small quantity of waste disposed of illegally (e.g., throwing a candy wrapper out a car window). Illegal dumping is generally recognized as disposing of a larger volume or weight of waste/debris (e.g., dumping furniture, tires, mattresses, or construction debris).
\n\nLittering is considered a minor offense in most cases, but illegal dumping can lead to felony charges, hefty fines, and jail time.
\n\nIn Georgia, for instance, litter is defined as being less than 10 lbs or under 15 cubic feet in volume. It defines waste as being more than 10 lbs or greater than 15 cubic feet in volume. Littering carries fines of at least $100, while illegally dumping large quantities of waste can carry fines of up to $25,000 and/or two years of prison for a second offense.
\n\nImmediate health risks posed by illegal dump sites include physical and chemical injury to people, especially children, coming into contact with dangerous debris, such as rusty nails, chemicals, or sharp metals.
\n\nOther adverse health risks come into play when dangerous chemicals, like automobile fluids, household cleaners, industrial wastes, appliances containing chemicals (e.g. refrigerators), and tires, are illegally disposed of. The chemicals leach into the soil and area waterways. This is the same soil we use to grow crops and the same water we drink.
\n\nA third negative consequence common to illegal dumping sites is the ideal conditions these places make for rodents, vermin, and mosquitoes. Disease-carrying rodents love to call these places home, and this poses a major health hazard to anyone living nearby.
\n\nLikewise, mosquitoes thrive inside the moist, warm conditions offered by disposed of tires. In fact, an EPA report states mosquitoes “multiply 100 times faster than normal in the warm, stagnant water standing in scrap tire casings.”
\n\n“Out of sight, out of mind” is often the mindset of people who dump wastes illegally, but that’s far from reality. Cleaning up, monitoring, and enforcing instances of illegal dumping cost taxpayers a significant amount of money each year. The EPA mentions that some urban areas in the U.S. spend “several million dollars per year on cleanup, hauling, and disposal” of illegally dumped wastes.
\n\nIt’s a problem in every state. For example, in Pennsylvania, it costs taxpayers about $10.1 million per year to clean up roadside litter and $835 per ton to clean up an illegal dump site, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
\n\nIllegal dumping also drives down property values due to safety concerns and aesthetic reasons. Additionally, it negatively affects residential and commercial development, so local economies suffer as well.
\n\nWhether you realize it or not, “midnight dumping” as it’s sometimes called affects you financially, even when you’re not the offender.
\n\nAside from being an eyesore, illegal dumping wreaks havoc on the environment. As previously mentioned, chemicals from wastes and certain appliances can leach into soil and local waterways causing damage to plants, wildlife, and water quality.
\n\nOther issues include increased risk of flooding and forest fires. Wastes dumped in waterways can block the natural flow of water and lead to flooding issues over time. Illegal dumps are also notoriously susceptible to fire caused spontaneously or by arson. Fire destroys area forests and homes, causing both an environmental and financial disaster.
\n\nAccording to Project Green Sweep of the Ohio EPA, old appliances can release chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) into the air, which is damaging to the earth’s ozone layer.
\n\nIf you have a smartphone, it’s easy to help. An app like TrashOut (which we first introduced here) makes it easy to report illegal dump sites. You simply fire up the app, take a picture of the illegally dumped waste, let your phone’s GPS grab the location, and submit it. TrashOut reports it to the local authorities and will even keep you in the loop as to what actions are taken to clean up the area.
\n\nSome cities have dedicated departments to handle unauthorized dumping of wastes. Check by going to your local government website, or by calling the environmental division of your local government. If your city uses the 3-1-1 hotline program, it can often be used to report dump sites. See a list of cities that utilize the 3-1-1 non-emergency municipal service line.
\n\nSome cities offer rewards for information leading to the conviction of illegal dumpers. According to CalRecycle, the city of Sacramento and Shasta County offer $250 rewards, and San Bernardino County offers rewards of up to $1,000 for tips leading to a conviction.
\n\nThe correct ways to dispose of bulky wastes and large volumes of waste/debris can be found below.
\n\nDo your part and help clean up your neighborhood. There are over 300 million people in the U.S. and each person generates an average of more than 4 lbs. of garbage per day. That’s a whole lot of waste to deal with!
\n\nIt’s becoming increasingly important to make sure waste is put in the proper place. It starts with awareness. If you found this article helpful, please share it with others to help spread the word about the damaging effects of illegal dumping and what we can do to stop it.
\n\n\n\nKeep reading:
\n\nIllegal dumping is a global problem that is prominent in most rural areas and big cities in the United States. The problem causes environmental issues, increases taxes, and poses a public health risk. The solution lies in informing the public about the problem and putting waste in its proper place.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"6e771073-df3f-570b-b1c9-b393c5c0b6d8","title":"How to Rent a Dumpster","url":"/blog/how-to-rent-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/3e130f08ca0469937b979b893479ca54/roll-off-dumpster.png","alt":""},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"79f88323-9203-564c-a126-747925fc2bca","name":"Roll Off Dumpster","slug":"Roll-Off-Dumpster"}],"content":"If this is your first time renting a dumpster, Hometown can help with a short overview on how to rent a dumpster. Learning a few of the basics can greatly simplify your dumpster rental experience.
\r\n\r\n\r\nThe cost of renting a dumpster varies widely based on your location. The national average cost of renting a 10 yard dumpster is $300, while the national average cost of renting a 40 cubic yard container is nearly $500 for one-weekek rental. What you pay depends primarily on landfill fees in your area, the size of the container you need, and the dumpster company you select. To get the best price on a dumpster, get quotes from multiple rental companies.
\r\n\r\nMost companies quote one flat rate fee for delivery, pickup, and disposal (though some add delivery charges separately). The rental rate is usually for a standard period of time (for example... up to 7 days) and includes a certain amount of weight (for example... up to 3 tons). If you exceed this weight allowance, you will be subject to overage fees typically ranging from $50 to $100 per ton that you go over.
\r\n\r\nWhen comparing dumpster rental prices between two companies:
\r\n\r\nExtra charges may apply if you need the roll off dumpster for longer than a provider's standard rental period. This is typically a per day fee (ie $5 or $10 per day), but some dumpster services will negotiate with you up front if you need it for slightly longer than their standard period.
\r\n\r\nPay particular attention to the amount of weight included in your price if you are disposing of heavy construction debris like bricks, cement, roofing shingles, or demolition debris. If you're renting a trash dumpster for cleaning out your home of miscellaneous household debris, you will typically not have to worry about 'over weight' fees because the debris is lighter.
\r\n\r\nLearn how to rent a dumpster and be free of your debris. Get information about costs to rent a dumpster, choosing container sizes, and expert tips. Save on your dumpster rental wtih Hometown!
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:31:11+00:00"},{"id":"e4330393-eacd-54f6-ba04-8ffcbda8728b","title":"Comparing the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/comparing-the-cost-of-junk-removal-to-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/63661a10d8a316fe97c44935ca6333db/dumpster-rental-and-junk-removal-cost-comparison.png","alt":"dumpster rental and junk removal cost comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"When it comes to any sort of bulk waste or debris removal, your two best options are hiring a junk removal company or renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nBut how do you know which is the most cost-effective option for you?
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\nCosts can vary greatly when renting a dumpster or hiring a junk hauler and are based on multiple factors.
\r\n
We'll go over:
\r\n\r\nA dumpster costs $250-$450 on average to rent, but as we've mentioned, prices can vary.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are typically the most cost-effective option for medium to large projects or when you need to manage debris during an ongoing project.
\r\n\r\nA kitchen or bathroom renovation, house addition, demolition project, or large deck removal job are projects where a dumpster may be the more economical solution.
\r\n\r\nHaving a dumpster on-site for bigger projects allows you to fill it up at your convenience while keeping a clean, safe site.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of dumpster rental costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tMarietta, GA | \r\n\t\t\t$275 | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tYonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\t$300 | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tWorcester, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$350 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard debris box | \r\n\t\t\tLos Angeles, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$400 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tSpringfield, IL | \r\n\t\t\t$550 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Learn more about pricing:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge a minimum amount for any junk removal, with the average around $75 to $100.
\r\n\r\nIf you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or mattress—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nFor small cleanups, junk removal is typically the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company may remove a small garage-worth of items for $200 when it may cost you $250 to rent a 10 yard bin to do the loading yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the cheaper (and less back-breaking) option.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of junk removal costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Junk Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| Refrigerator removal | \r\n\t\t\tManhattan Beach, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$165 | \r\n\t\t
| Removal of 2 TVs | \r\n\t\t\tOmaha, NE | \r\n\t\t\t$45 | \r\n\t\t
| Living room set removal (sectional couch, two china cabinets) | \r\n\t\t\tToms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\t$169 | \r\n\t\t
| Storage unit cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tSandy, UT | \r\n\t\t\t$375 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tFranklin, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Remember: Every project is different, so calling at least two dumpster rental and two junk removal companies to compare pricing is the best way to determine the most economical debris removal solution.
\r\nDumpster rental and junk removal costs vary based on a number of factors, including the type and amount of debris, where you're located, the accessibility of your property, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nYour exact project cost will depend on these factors, and the best way to get an accurate estimate for your rental or project is to reach out to multiple service providers in your area for a quote.
\r\n\r\nThis not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to choose the best company for the job, not just the cheapest.
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country or far off the beaten path?
\r\n\r\nIf so, you can expect your dumpster rental or junk removal service to cost more due to the cost of travel incurred by the company.
\r\n\r\nCost of living and local disposal fees also play a large role in cost.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you’ll pay significantly more in New York City to rent a dumpster than you would in Memphis, TN based on the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also likely pay more for an apartment cleanout that requires hauling items up and down flights of stairs compared to the same size cleanout in the same zip code that is conveniently located on the first floor.
\r\n\r\nSome service providers—dumpster and junk removal—charge differently for household wastes vs. construction and demolition (C&D) debris.
\r\n\r\nC&D debris is often heavier, so it may end up costing more to haul away than general household trash.
\r\n\r\nThe heavier the load, the more you’ll pay.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk, for example, costs more than a load taking up just half of the truck’s total capacity.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you exceed the weight limit of your dumpster rental you'll likely be hit with overage fees.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe two best ways to remove bulk waste are to either rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company, but which option is the most cost-effective? Learn about the average costs associated with each service to determine which is the best option for your project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:33:18+00:00"},{"id":"cbdb3b53-9a28-5eae-8001-460da17f460c","title":"What Does the World's Most Sustainable City Look Like?","url":"/blog/the-worlds-most-sustainable-city","image":{"path":"/static/a0673f3f31324e7e8af0cf34ee0b47d3/masdar-city-master-plan-640x466.jpg","alt":"Masdar City sustainable design"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"8a556635-2a85-5e01-a170-d18bb873bb0e","name":"Sustainability","slug":"Sustainability"}],"content":"An artist's rendering of Masdar City
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n\r\nThe Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Masdar City addresses every sustainability issue you could ever think of:
\r\n\r\nSince the focus of Trash Talk is waste/trash/garbage, that’s the part of the city’s master plan we were most intrigued by. Phase 1 of Masdar City’s waste management plan will divert 50 percent of all waste away from landfills, or the equivalent of about 11,000 metric tons. The plan is to sort waste into three main streams: dry recyclables (i.e., cans and cardboard), wet recyclables (i.e., food scraps) and residuals (i.e., empty food containers). Dry recyclables will be shipped to the recycling center while wet recyclables will be composted and used for landscaping purposes. Other residual waste, including toxic waste, will be handled outside the city.
\r\n\r\nIs Masdar City the city of the future? It very well could be. However, it’s tough to say for sure until the city is fully developed and operational. This won’t happen until 2025 assuming everything stays on schedule. On paper, the city looks incredible and is amazingly eco-friendly. That said, there’s no way of knowing how accurate this will translate in real life. My best guess is that Masdar City succeeds in developing the most sustainable city in the world. However, it comes with a steep price – estimates put the price tag at around $18 to $19 billion.
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\r\nImages via: Masdar City Official Website
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
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