Anytime a holiday rolls around, a lot of waste can accumulate — something that may be top of people's minds with winter's festive season in full swing. Over the summer, Facebook user Debbie Beng shared photos of her local park after 4th of July celebrations, showing trash discarded all over the ground instead of being disposed of in trash containers, as well as deep tire marks in the grass. She reported there were fireworks left behind in the parking lots, as well.

"No home training," Beng declared in the post, expressing her frustration.

It's so nice how people trash the park ( regularly). And park their big trucks in the grass to tear it all up. Do...

Posted by Debbie Bengs on Sunday, July 6, 2025

Having a respect for nature and green spaces in suburban and urban areas is a basic step toward climate awareness and a greater understanding of the natural world. 

Leaving trash behind in nature preserves, beaches, campsites, and parks is a blatant disrespect for these important spaces that are so important to the environment, and increased interactions with nature and wildlife should lead to a desire to protect these spaces rather than abuse them. The tire marks through the grass are possibly an even greater sign of disrespect.

When humans disregard rules and basic decency to leave no trace of themselves in nature, it can ruin the experience for others. 

Leaving trash behind is not only unsightly, but it can also cause harm to wildlife. Animals may become entangled or trapped, which can prevent their ability to maneuver or eat and drink, and may lead to injury or even death.

Improperly discarded trash and damage to natural areas can also disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, robbing plants and animals of the resources and spaces they need to survive, and ultimately harming biodiversity in the area, if the violations are severe enough. 

The original poster's frustration with the obvious disregard and disrespect for the natural spaces in the park was understandable, and commenters shared in her dismay.

"Smh and wonder why we can't have anything nice!" exclaimed one frustrated commenter.

"And this is why the bathroom can NEVER be unlocked," said the OP. "And why the tennis courts stay locked," giving a clear example of how the inappropriate behavior of some can ruin freedom for others.

Another commenter simply said, "Wow."

Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely 👍 Only in some areas ☝️ No way 👎 I'm not sure 🤷 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

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