The person that really masters how to create effective, carbon neutral, and waste free marketing and advertising will get rich - we guarantee it. Because believe us, people - the flyers aren't working. Whether it is to advertise a local pizza place, a nightclub, or a special event, these pieces of paper don't work.

It's strange, though, isn't it? People keep making them. They hire people to stand on street corners and hand them out. Others are convinced that by leaving them on windshields, they are hitting their target market. Isn't it interesting, however, how even people with genuine manners have no issue with throwing these papers directly on the ground? About 5 steps from the location of the flyer-hander-outers, you'll begin to see a long trail of litter.

Cities such as Long Beach and Miami Beach are trying to improve the problem that plagues their cities. But there are many things that you can do to improve this situation on your own.

First of all, if you have a business or event that you are promoting, think twice, thrice, or as many times as is necessary when considering fliers as a method as marketing. Then figure out a waste-free way to get the job done. Also consider the fact that most fliers get junked before anyone even looks at them. Target your market more closely and make an impact on people that will truly be interested.

Secondly, and most importantly, when someone offers you a flyer - DON'T TAKE IT. Kindly say no thank you and walk on by. If it is absolutely killing you to see what they are advertising, take one. Then stop walking, read it, and return it to the person. Sometimes you'll get a funny look, but just tell them you live a paperless life - simplified and very eco-tastic.

Rebecca says: Flyers are a big pet peeve of mine. Since starting greenerMIAMI, I've often called out individual companies that pay for this form of advertising that creates litter in the streets. Since then, I have made a conscious effort to not accept fliers, to help get them into trash cans, and to convince marketers that this is not the answer. Please join me!

Photo credit Wikipedia user Ld