Campaign launched to fight litter on England's roads

The Highways Agency today launched its campaign to fight the problem of litter on roads across England, part of its commitment to protecting the environment.

The 'Bag it, Bin it' campaign has support from the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE). Drivers are being encouraged to pick up a Highways Agency litter bag to put rubbish in and dispose of it in a bin when they reach their destination - rather than throwing it from a car window.

With many people out on the roads during the holiday season, litter can build up and may often block drains. Not only is litter unsightly and a threat to the environment, but clearing rubbish from roadside verges and central reservations puts the workers at risk of injury from moving traffic and diverts resources away from road maintenance and repairs.

The Highways Agency campaign is supported by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), and their new president, Bill Bryson, who has placed litter at the top of his agenda.

Highways Agency "Bag it and Bin it" litter bags can be found in service stations across the country.

Agency Chief Executive, Archie Robertson, said: "This unsightly and environmentally damaging problem is a big concern for us. Money spent on clearing litter thrown from vehicles could be better spent in reducing congestion and improving safety."

"Working on or next to fast moving traffic is a dangerous job. People are putting themselves at risk clearing the litter thrown from vehicles. We want all road users to think about the consequences of littering. Please keep your rubbish with you, pick up one of our bags, and dispose of it safely and sensibly when you reach your destination."