January 2002- PRESIDENT'S COLUMN
By Mike Brown

This past month, Kentucky served as host state for the International Adopt A Highway Association. We saw Adopt a Highway representatives from the many different states across the nation come to Kentucky and discuss their mutual problems and share various approaches they are taking to controlling litter.

The Kentucky Soft Drink Association…BIRP…and Kentuckians for Comprehensive Recycling participated in the conference and we were exhibitors showing attendees that all the Kentucky Soft Drink Bottlers had subscribed to and were working with Kentucky's Adopt a Highway Program.

We learned a great deal. Texas which started its Adopt A Highway Program in 1985 has seen a 72% decline in roadside litter. Alabama has created a character known as "Auntie Litter" who is going into the schools and working to educate youngsters not to litter. Some states have created an "Adopt a Spot" program for younger kids so they can work to clean parks and rest areas, but not be on the highways. It is interesting to see the various states and to learn that some states operate with a budget as low as $5,000, while others have well funded programs.

In Japan, there is no government funding of this program. Florida has seen a 17% decline in roadside litter because of its Adopt a Highway Program. In all the discussions from among the many states, none were calling for bottle bills…advanced disposal taxes and so forth. But, they were working to make their program the best possible program in the country.

And, all felt that the number one item on the agenda is to create a public awareness and education for the children and citizens of their states. This is something we have been promoting in Kentucky, and sounds like we are on the right track.

Kentucky dignitaries including the Lieutenant Governor, Steve Henry and Secretary of Tourism Ann Latta talked about the importance of having a clean state. We certainly agree.

And, from the looks of this year's Annual Report from the Department of Natural Resources, we are achieving that goal. According to the annual report, some 82.4% of all Kentucky households are now served by curbside collection of trash. Another large segment handle their solid waste by taking it to collection stations.

And, Kentuckians have increased their recycling rate by almost 400%. Litter and illegal dumps are being cleaned up at a record pace. From all indications, Senate Bill 2 which was passed in 1991 by the Kentucky legislature seems to be doing the job. Counties have worked hard to implement cleanups, and it is showing.

It seems that a little effort in education and awareness will go a long way toward cleaning up the balance of the state. Certainly no major legislative initiative is needed at this point. Volunteers all over Kentucky have mobilized and are working to clean up our state. And, recycling is improving every year.