Operation Clean Sweep, an all volunteer anti-litter campaign was formed in early 2006 as a result of citizen concern for the amount of trash and litter throughout New Bedford.  Rather than ask newly elected Mayor Scott Lang to solve the problem, concerned citizens offered solutions to the problem.  Realizing the value of citizen participation he swiftly introduced the people who now, in part, form the committee of Operation Clean Sweep.

With passion and enthusiasm the committee has succeeded in organizing a series of cleanups throughout the city with the help of hundreds of civic minded volunteers and community service groups. City employees volunteer their time and with the help and support of city resources Operation Clean Sweep has been able to clean up over 39 tons of trash and litter from the neighborhoods of New Bedford since its inception in 2006.

Education is a key component of Operation Clean Sweep.  By creating awareness through classroom presentations, members of the committee have reached out to over 1500 students in New Bedford. We ask them to think about their trash and how to dispose of it properly.  We encourage everyone to recycle and NOT Litter.  

Advocating for enforcement of litter laws is another important part of Operation Clean Sweep.  Because of this awareness raising
anti – litter campaign, city officials have heard the people of New Bedford and are working to improve the enforcement structure with regard to litter and improper disposal of trash.

Operation Clean Sweep is still in its infancy and has much work to do.  We encourage everyone to get involved.  We hope to instill a mindset that will help create a cleaner, safer environment for generations.

Working together we will make a difference.

Visit Operation CleanSweep at:
http://www.operationcleansweep.net