Why does litter hurt animals?
Quick answer from Eartha
Animals can get tangled in litter or think it's food and try to eat it, which can make them sick. That's why we always put rubbish in the bin, not on the ground. Picking up even one piece of litter helps keep animals safe.
The longer story
Animals explore the world with their mouths and noses, so a plastic bag floating in the sea can look a lot like a tasty jellyfish to a turtle. If they eat it by mistake, it can make them very unwell.
Some litter, like fishing line or six-pack rings, can wrap around an animal's body, wing or neck. This can hurt them or make it hard for them to move, swim or fly properly.
Litter that blows into rivers often ends up in the ocean, so even rubbish dropped far from the beach can travel a long way and reach the water.
The good news is that litter is one of the easiest problems to help fix. Putting rubbish in the bin, joining a beach or park clean-up, and reminding friends to do the same all make a real difference for animals.
Try this at home: Mini litter walk
- With a grown-up, walk around your street or park with gloves and a bag.
- Pick up three pieces of safe litter you spot, like paper or plastic.
- Pop them in the bin and give yourself a high five.
Words to know
- Litter
- Rubbish that gets left on the ground instead of in a bin.
- Wildlife
- Animals and plants that live in the wild.
For grown-ups: what is my child learning here?
Age band: 5-8
Curriculum link: Australian Curriculum v9 Science, AC9SFI05
The concept: Human waste in the environment can directly harm animals, and small individual actions help reduce this.
More classroom ideas are on our teachers page, and safety notes for families are on for parents.
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