The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #71912

Jeffrey D. Ewen, MPH RPH, Independent Researcher, 36 Club CT, Stroudsburg, PA 18360, 570-421-0844, ewen@ptd.net and Adenike Bitto, MD, DrPH, MPH, CHES, ESU, P.O. Box 155, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a litter control program in an urban setting over a three year time period. Methods. A litter assessment tool was designed to measure a baseline amount of litter in the first year. The litter control program was evaluated for the next two years. Results. The amount and type of litter for an urban area in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was tracked through the changing of the mayoral administration and the restructuring of the local health department. Conclusions. For minimum cost, the assessment tool proved to be a quantitative way to evaluate the litter control program and check the accountability of government agencies.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this presentation participants will be able to:
• Define the word "litter"
• Identify three social factors that effect littering
• Design a low cost litter assessment tool for use in measuring the amount of litter in an urban setting

Keywords: Environment, Data Collection

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.