Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Manhattan Litter Project Reveals Social Norm Breakdown

12/26/2025

38 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The article argues that littering persists in cities and signals a breakdown in social norms.
It describes a Manhattan litter collection project from Washington Heights to Wall Street, noting litter types vary by area.
The finding, attributed to Joshua Goodman from the Sanitation Department, notes that seeing litter makes residents feel uncared for and shows littering as a social issue affecting perceptions of community care.

1 of 1

Story summary

The article argues that littering persists in cities and signals a breakdown in social norms.
It describes a Manhattan litter collection project from Washington Heights to Wall Street, noting litter types vary by area.
The finding, attributed to Joshua Goodman from the Sanitation Department, notes that seeing litter makes residents feel uncared for and shows littering as a social issue affecting perceptions of community care.