FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media, Citizens of Bamberg County
From: Keep Bamberg County Beautiful
Date: December 16, 2025
Bamberg, South Carolina (December 2025) — Keep Bamberg County Beautiful (KBCB) is proud to announce the continued rollout of its Cigarette Litter Prevention & Recycling Program, a countywide initiative designed to reduce cigarette butt litter, encourage responsible disposal and recycling, and help keep public spaces cleaner and safer for everyone.
This program is made possible by a $20,000 grant from Keep America Beautiful, which supports KBCB’s efforts to expand access to cigarette waste disposal options and recycling resources across Bamberg County.
“Cigarette butts are one of the most common—and most preventable—forms of litter,” said Alisha Moore, Executive Director of Keep Bamberg County Beautiful. “This program is about more than ashtrays. It’s about protecting our neighborhoods, supporting our small businesses, and building a culture of responsibility where every person can take pride in keeping Bamberg County clean.”
As part of the initiative, outdoor ashtrays are currently available. They are mountable on most small-business or residential building structures, making it easy for property owners to provide a clear, designated place for cigarette waste. KBCB also announced that standalone ashtrays will be added in the very near future, expanding placement options in high-traffic areas and community spaces.
“This program is the kind of proactive, practical solution that makes a real difference,” said Bamberg County Administrator Joey Preston. “Reducing litter improves the appearance of our communities, strengthens local pride, and supports the ongoing work we’re doing to protect public infrastructure—especially stormwater systems that must stay clear to help prevent flooding as much as possible.”
In addition to outdoor receptacles, KBCB is providing mobile ashtrays and cigarette butt recycling bags to encourage smokers to dispose of cigarette waste responsibly. These tools are intended to make the right choice easier—whether someone is at a local business, attending an event, or spending time outdoors.
KBCB board members say the program reflects a shared commitment to community health, beautification, and accountability. “This is a visible way for our community to say, ‘We care,” said Detra Sally-Bruce, KBCB Board Member. “When we provide simple solutions, we remove excuses—and we make it easier for everyone to do their part.”
“This program supports clean streets, cleaner entrances to businesses, and cleaner public spaces,” said Nina Haynes, KBCB Board Member. “It’s about creating a standard of respect for our community and the people who live here.”
“Every cigarette butt that’s properly disposed of is one less piece of litter in our grass, our sidewalks, and our storm drains,” said Rosella Cooper, KBCB Board Member. “That adds up quickly—and the results will be something we can all see.”
Small businesses, organizations, and residents interested in requesting an outdoor ashtray are encouraged to contact Alisha Moore at (803) 809-4551 or kbcb@bambergcounty.sc.gov.
Keep Bamberg County Beautiful is a community-based program focused on litter prevention, beautification, recycling education, and volunteer-powered cleanups throughout Bamberg County. Through partnerships, public education, and hands-on initiatives, KBCB works to create a cleaner, greener, and more welcoming community for all.
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