© 2024 WSIU Public Broadcasting
WSIU Public Broadcasting
Member-Supported Public Media from Southern Illinois University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

New Campaign Aims to Clean Up Litter in Southern Illinois

Images
Angie Fitzenreider
A bald eagle stands with trash near Harrisburg.

A new initiative aims to literally clean up the region.

The Clean SOIL Campaign has a double meaning since soil is the thin layer of material covering the earth's surface and serves as an abbreviation for southern Illinois.
It's the brainchild of former Congressman and SIU President Glenn Poshard and retired Southern Illinoisan Outdoors writer Les Winkeler.

Poshard says the idea is to change habits through litter prevention education for students from elementary school through college.

"This is about education. It's about boots on the ground to clean the area up. But, it's not about a one-time clean it up campaign. This is something that has to be sustained over many, many years and to future generations."

Poshard says the litter has gotten so bad it's difficult to attract new businesses to the region and recruit students to SIU.

He says the campaign will move forward later this month when all the stakeholders -- which will include college students, environmental organizations and local business leaders -- get together for an all-day retreat to formulate a plan for the initiative.

 

As a news producer and news anchor on All Things Considered, Brad provides the listeners with a recap of the day's top local and state news as well as breaking news at any given time. Contact WSIU Radio at 618-453-6101 or email wsiunews@wsiu.org
As a WSIU donor, you don’t simply watch or listen to public media programs, you are a partner. By making a gift, you help WSIU produce, purchase, and broadcast programs you care about and enjoy – every day of the year.