Summary Wiping Out the Waste Problem: Five Solutions Conclusion Work Cited Waste is an urgent problem that needs a solution. In this problem solution essay, some possible solutions will be proposed since there are many solutions to waste, most of which are quick or long-term. The amount of waste accumulating in the United States is growing at levels never seen before in the world. With continued negligence, quick solutions to waste problems will no longer have any effect and the entire world will be at risk of numerous global disasters. Waste has been a major problem not only in the United States, but throughout the world, especially in poor countries. Continued negligence could lead to even greater debt for the United States, unbreathable oxygen for humans, contamination of the ocean and drinking water, and an enormous amount of waste visible everywhere. Many citizens who litter don't think about it, but if the waste they litter somehow ended up in their homes, you'd see how dramatically waste would decrease around the world. It is clear that many who litter are irresponsible or simply unaware of how much each piece of rubbish they throw away impacts the environment around them, depending on whether they live near large bodies of water, whether there are a lot of wild animals around to them or if they simply already have many other environmental problems. Citizens and the government need to act as soon as possible to reduce waste while there is still time and should work on more ways to get citizens to dispose of their waste properly and recycle it to help the environment. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Sweeping Out Trash: Five Solutions One of the solutions to be proposed would be stricter waste laws in the United States, many of the penalties for littering in the United States depend on the state in which you litter. In some states, littering may only be a small fine to pay, in others it may result in prison time, and in others it may result in a suspended driver's license. According to ncsl.org, a document written by Jennifer Schultz and Brook Oleen, “fines range from $20 in Colorado to $30,000 in Maryland. In more serious cases, violators can be subject to prison, with sentences ranging from 10 days in Idaho to six years in Tennessee. The laws of Maryland, Massachusetts and Louisiana also provide for the suspension of a driver's license in some cases." Fines should be graded from severe to less severe consequences depending on the amount of severe waste in the state and should be monitored 24/7 to get the most results, tougher laws will also stop people from littering waste as they will be afraid of getting caught. Additionally, another solution to ending waste would be to involve communities more in cleanup and behavioral change in how we view waste. According to keepnbeautiful.org, “Research from Keep America Beautiful (KAB) shows that we must address both waste behavior and change the environment. About 85% of waste is the result of individual attitudes. Changing individual behavior is essential to prevent waste." Changing communities' mindsets about waste could be beneficial in many ways, not only on waste but also on many other issues. Citizens working together will not only build bonds and trust with each other, but they will save their community and do their part to ensure, 36(4), 101-125.