The Effects of Trash in North Philadelphia

Tensions between residents of North Philadelphia and Temple students living off-campus rise every year around campus move-out time. The driving factor behind those rising tensions is, surprisingly, trash.

Residents of North Philadelphia say that the trash – mainly glass bottles – is a public safety issue. One resident stated that she was worried about neighborhood children and that it’s disheartening that Temple students don’t seem to care. However, some Temple students do see the trash off-campus as an issue as well. Students say that the first step to solving the issue could be as simple as putting trash in the bins where it belongs, and then ensuring it is picked up on trash day.

If improved, the solution could bridge the community once again.

Video + text by Eve Keesecker