LitterScout

Project Summary

Youth-led environmental initiative that tackles plastic pollution through community cleanups, digital tools, and educational outreach to mitigate climate change.

Detailed Story

LitterScout is a youth-led environmental initiative that addresses plastic pollution at its source through organized community cleanups and digital technology. The project began with research on the impact of plastic waste on local waterways, followed by identifying key cleanup locations through collaboration with environmental organizations. The initiative implements multiple strategies: monthly cleanup events in parks and urban areas, development of the LitterScout mobile app for tracking and reporting litter, educational outreach through books and digital content, and community mobilization through partnerships with schools and local organizations. The LitterScout app allows individuals and groups to report litter hotspots, track cleanup progress, and organize local cleanups efficiently. The project also includes extensive educational components, having published three books on environmental stewardship, created 50 YouTube videos, 50 podcasts, and 52 blog posts to educate the public on the connection between plastic waste and climate change.

Impact Statement

Since its inception, LitterScout has removed over 42,000 lbs. of waste from Texas waterways, prevented 8,000 lbs. of recyclables from reaching landfills, and mobilized thousands of volunteers across 200+ cities. The project has grown from a small local initiative into a statewide and global movement, receiving recognition from the Texas Governor’s Office, Texas House of Representatives, EPA, and the UN. The initiative directly supports UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6 – Clean Water & Sanitation and SDG 13 – Climate Action) by improving water quality and reducing the environmental footprint of waste pollution.