Good Litter Behaviour

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31880, 7 January 1969, Page 20

Good Litter Behaviour

(N.Z. PYess Association) WELLINGTON, Jan. 6. The president of the National Anti-Lit-ter Campaign Council (Mr E. C. Marris) feels that many people are being tidier this summer.

“From my observations

throughout North Island holiday areas, and from the observations of others, I have encouraging evidence that many people are acquiring tidier outdoor habits,” he said today.

“For example, picnickers, 1 notice, are making full use of those spots where litter receptacles are provided.

“On the 20 mile stretch of the Desert Road I saw only

one empty beer bottle, where at one time there used to be dozens. This particular stretch of highway has for years been a favourite rubbish dump for passing motorists, and it was pleasing to note the absence of the usual quota of paper bags, empty cartons and fruit peelings. “It does look as if motorists during the holidays have been acting on the council’s suggestion that they save their rubbish until they get to their destinations, rather than toss it out of car windows. “One black spot in the litter picture, however, is the prevalence of broken bottles. Reports indicate that this is a continuing problem and one that requires the most stringent penalties. In one day the Hutt Hospital treated eight cases of cuts from broken bottles, and this experience could no doubt be repeated in other hospitals.” But the Wellington city engineer (Mr J. S. Roberts) said: “It doesn’t appear that the anti-litter campaign is having any noticeable effect on the problem in this city.”