Don’t make Texas a mess

We’re not the only ones who have noticed growing numbers of face masks discarded in parking lots and used sanitizing wipes tossed on sidewalks and in gutters. Alarmed by the amount of PPE trash piling up in the state, the #Don’tMessWithTexas anti-littering campaign has called on a number of Texas celebrities, including Matthew McConaughey, Marsai Martin, George Strait and Eva Longoria, to lend their fame to public service announcements reminding their fellow Texans “that the only safe way to dispose of used personal protective equipment (PPE) is in a trash can.” Becky Ozuna, program administrator for the campaign, said in a news release, “Unfortunately, we’re seeing a significant uptick in the amount of PPE litter. Not only is it unsightly, it is also harmful to the environment and a danger to public health. When you’re done with your masks, gloves and wipes, do the right thing and dispose of them properly.” The PSAs can be seen on television and social media channels. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, litter tossed from cars accounts for half of the 362 million pieces of trash that accumulate on Texas roads each year. The penalty for littering is a $500 fine, or up to $2,000 for tossed items that weigh more than 5 pounds.