of Washington residents
choose to not litter.
Every year, nearly 38 million pounds of litter accumulates on Washington roadways, on-off ramps and public areas. Even though litter is a big problem, there’s a simple solution. Use a litter bag in your car and throw your trash in a bin. Your small daily actions make a big difference.
Ready? Let’s get started with a litter bag!
Get a free litter bag for your car
A litter bag is a handy place to keep waste in your car until you can toss it into a garbage can or recycling bin! It keeps your ride tidier, keeps the state litter free and sets a good example for others.
Starting September 13, 2024, we’re giving away free, reusable car litter bags at all Washington Fred Meyer Grocery Stores and Rosauers Supermarkets. Pick yours up at the customer service counter, while supplies last. Limit one bag per customer.
Not near a participating store? No problem!
If you're not near a participating retail partner, you can purchase a litter bag or make your own:
- Repurpose an existing bag or container — like a shopping bag, small waste basket, or plastic tub.
- Check the cleaning or automotive department at a retail or auto supply store.
- Shop online to find the right litter bag for you — search for “car trash can” or “car trash bag.”
Not littering...simple as that
Is litter really that big of a deal?
Absolutely!
Litter isn’t just ugly — it’s dangerous and expensive. Roadside litter causes hundreds of car crashes every year. Many types of litter, like cigarette butts, leach harmful chemicals into the environment. Despite our best efforts, litter is a growing problem. Even with millions of dollars of cleanup efforts every year, we can only collect a fraction of the litter accumulating in our state. With a car litter bag and a little bit of effort, you can help keep our state healthier, tidier, and litter free.
Contact information
Amber Smith
Statewide litter prevention coordinator
amber.smith@ecy.wa.gov
360-688-4957