Trash Pollution
Trash pollution is a growing problem in the Potomac watershed.
Trash in the Potomac River and its tributaries comes from a variety of sources including littering and illegal dumping. Rain also washes litter directly into the water or into storm drains. Eventually, the trash flows into the Chesapeake Bay and ultimately, the Atlantic Ocean. It is important that we prevent pollution from entering our rivers because most trash that ends up in the ocean originates from rivers.
What can you do?
Stormwater
Here’s what you can do to minimize the impact of stormwater runoff:
- Pick up litter
- Report illegal dumping by calling 311
- Report clogged catch basins or storm drains to the DC Water Emergency Line 202-612-3400
- Clean up after your dog
- Use non-toxic pesticides
- Conserve water
Plastic
Here’s what you can do reduce your single-use plastic consumption:
- Use reusable water bottles
- Carry reusable shopping bags
- Use a travel coffee mug
- And many more! Check out this website for more ideas!
Trash
- Volunteer for cleanup events at National Harbor, Alexandria Waterfront, and other locations throughout our Potomac and Shenandoah watersheds.
Plastic Pollution
Additional resources on Plastics and PFAS
- National Geographic: Plastic Pollution Resource Library
- Abell Foundation: Report on Microplastics
- Cary Institute: Plastic Pollution in Freshwaters, from Rivers to Oceans
- Duke University: 20 Years of Government Responses to the Global Plastic Pollution Problem
- Scientific American Three-Part Series on Microplastics:
- Virginia Marine Debris Action Plan for 2021-2025
