Litter Free Chicago-Calumet River Initiative

Litter Free Chicago-Calumet River Initiative  

Local litter, local solutions

Take action with Friends

Understanding and decreasing plastic pollution takes systemic solutions


Friends of the Chicago River has been at the forefront of cleaning up the river since founding Chicago River Rescue Day in 1992, a watershed-wide cleanup that engages thousands of volunteers each year. While the river has made remarkable progress over the past 40 years, litter remains a persistent problem—now in the form of harmful plastics from food and product packaging.

Through our Litter Free Chicago-Calumet River Initiative, we work with community and government leaders to reduce litter through strong public policy, research, comprehensive reduction programs, and local cleanup efforts. Together, we’re keeping our rivers clean and healthy for all.

Local litter, local solutions

Plastic accounts for around 85% of litter in and around our river system, much of it from food-related products and packaging, according to research partner Tim Hoellien, Ph. D, Loyola University of Chicago. Learn more about what’s in our rivers and how plastic pollution harms people, wildlife, and communities. 

Take action with Friends

Understanding and decreasing plastic pollution takes systemic solutions