November is "Clean-up and Beautification Month" in the territory, according to a proclamation by Gov. Charles W. Turnbull.
The governor noted that environmental quality affects the health and safety of everyone, as well as the touristic appeal and, in turn, the economic well-being, of the Virgin Islands. "Every effort will be made to enforce anti-litter laws," he said, "and to punish those who insist on littering our public roads and streets, neighborhoods and parks."
Turnbull also:
– called on residents not to throw trash, food containers, cans or bottles out of car windows or leave them lying on the ground.
– said individuals and businesses "should ensure that their garbage is placed inside [of bins] and properly covered for transport."
– asked individuals and businesses to "participate in a territorial clean-up and island-wide beautification project, including recycing" on an ongoing basis.
– called on parents and guardians "to instill in their children the importance of keeping their residence and surrounding areas free of litter."
– said he is "directing the commissioner of Education to establish a program through the school system to instill in our children the necessity of keeping their schools and our islands clean and free of litter."
– said he is directing the commissioners of Public Works and Planning and Natural Resources and the director of V.I. Fire Services "to strictly enforce the anti-litter and solid waste laws."
