Beatties Ford Road is struggling with a litter problem. To address this, Sol Nation, an environmental nonprofit founded by Tiffany Fant, is organizing a community cleanup on January 20. The goal is simple: to beautify the area and raise awareness about the importance of a clean environment.
Fant noted, “Community members and business owners say we have a trash problem in the area.” Her organization aims to tackle this issue head-on. Volunteers will gather for a brief session at Archive CLT at 9:30 a.m., then head out to clean spots like LaSalle, Five Points Plaza, and Lincoln Heights.
One major reason for the litter is a high transient population. Fant points out that there are only four public trash bins stretching from West Boulevard to I-85, which is insufficient. “Many of our trash cans are overflowing. It’s not because people aren’t using them; it’s just that they’re not enough for our needs,” she explained. Along with this, a large number of take-out restaurants and convenience stores lead to more disposable items being tossed on the ground.
The Beatties Ford Road Corridor has a rich history, being home to many generations of Black Charlotteans. Unfortunately, development choices since the 1960s, including the construction of I-277, have harmed the community. These decisions have led to food deserts, increases in poverty, and higher crime rates.
Cleansing the streets can make a difference. According to research, neighborhoods free of trash feel safer. Studies have shown that cleaning up vacant lots can reduce gun violence and other crimes significantly. This illustrates how important a clean environment can be in fostering community well-being.
Environmental justice is also a significant aspect that Fant emphasizes. She highlights that Black and brown communities often bear the brunt of pollution, despite contributing the least to it. Studies indicate that while non-Hispanic whites enjoy a “pollution advantage,” Black and Hispanic communities face significantly higher exposure to pollutants.
Fant founded Sol Nation to fight against these inequalities that have affected the community for decades. She believes in connecting the dots between various issues—housing, education, and environment. The upcoming event will include community surveys to gather opinions on climate justice and local environmental concerns.
“All of this work is about care, love, and understanding,” Fant concluded. The cleanup is not just about picking up trash; it’s about fostering a sense of community and encouraging conversations around the broader implications of environmental justice.
Check out this related article: Lee Zeldin: Trump’s E.P.A. Nominee Lacks Environmental Experience – What It Means for Our Planet
Source linkEnvironmental justice
