From Highways to Coastlines: New Research Uncovers the True Scope of Litter in America

In this episode of Do Beautiful Things, Jenny Lawson talks with Veronica Roof, HDR’s national solid waste planning leader, about the groundbreaking 2026 Keep America Beautiful National Litter Study. Together, they explore how innovative research methods and robust data collection are uncovering the true scope of litter across the country, informing strategies to reduce waste, and inspiring action for cleaner, healthier communities nationwide.Show Notes00:00 Discovering a career in waste management03:43 Beginning the litter project journey08:46 Improving data analysis methods11:56 Preparing for fieldwork and sample sites15:40 Developing coastal litter research methodology19:12 Discussing waste reduction programs23:32 Discussing litter reduction goals24:59 Understanding the 2026 Litter Study