Anti-Litter Loyalist

“Litter’s Still a Sore Subject With Stirling,” a superb May 11 news story by Daniel M. Weintraub, supports my views on highway litter.

I applaud not only Assemblyman Larry Stirling for his interest in making highway landscaping more drought-proof and for keeping our highways clean but also The Times for reporting his efforts.

Caltrans has the dirty job of keeping our highways clean. But isn’t this the responsibility of everyone?

On Oct. 1, AB 2020, the Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act, goes into effect. It’s crucial, however, that there are convenient recycling centers to accept our bottles and cans. Therefore, we need both to push the California Grocers Assn. to make this bottle bill a success by accepting our bottles and cans, and to force the plastics industry to recycle plastic bottles returned under the bill.

AB 2020 will reduce litter if it’s properly implemented. At the same time, we need to have a persistent anti-litter campaign, plus we must fine drivers and pedestrians who litter our streets and sidewalks. In other countries, citizens show pride in keeping their roadsides clean. I’m sure we can do it here.

HUGH C. HYDE

Chula Vista