In the world of community activism and urban cleanliness, Terrill Haigler stands out as a powerful force for change. Known on Instagram as @_yafavtrashman, Terrill has dedicated the last four years to advocating for cleaner streets and organizing community efforts to combat waste and litter. With over 500 community clean-ups under his belt and more than 1,000 tons of trash removed from the streets, he’s making a visible impact on the environment and the people of Philadelphia.
Building a Career in Clean Streets Advocacy
Terrill’s commitment to community cleanliness isn’t just a passion—it’s his career. He has transformed his vision for a cleaner Philadelphia into a full-time mission, connecting with people on social media and organizing large-scale clean-up efforts that have resonated with the community. Terrill is primarily active on Instagram, where you can find him as @_yafavtrashman, sharing updates on his work, upcoming clean-ups, and tips on keeping urban spaces clean.
In addition to his clean-up initiatives, Terrill owns a demolition company that focuses on responsible waste disposal, ensuring that construction debris is handled properly and disposed of in environmentally safe ways. His work not only promotes cleanliness but also demonstrates how urban waste management can be done ethically and sustainably.
Eco-Friendly Trends in Waste Management
As Terrill has observed, recycling has become a key trend in the waste management industry, and he couldn’t be happier about it. “Recycling is a priority more than ever,” he says. “Everyone is realizing that it’s the only way to move our industry forward. So many materials can be repurposed and reused.” This shift towards sustainability is crucial for the future of waste management, and Terrill is at the forefront, advocating for responsible practices that minimize environmental impact.
Favorite Local Spots and Small Businesses
For Terrill, clean streets and supporting local businesses go hand in hand. He’s a big fan of small businesses that bring him joy, especially coffee shops, antique stores, and comic book shops. “Those three things bring me such joy,” he shares. “Anytime I’m in one of these places, I’m in a peaceful state.” Through his advocacy, he’s not only cleaning up the streets but also fostering a thriving local economy and encouraging others to support the small businesses that make Philadelphia unique.
A Proudest Career Moment: Taking Ownership of a Trash Truck
Terrill’s career has been filled with impactful moments, but one achievement stands out above the rest. In just a few weeks, he’ll be purchasing his very own trash truck, a monumental step that will allow him to scale his impact. “This is my proudest accomplishment,” Terrill beams. “I’ll be able to increase my impact of removing illegally dumped trash ten times over. It’ll allow me to employ at-risk youth and returning citizens as well.”
With this trash truck, Terrill aims to tackle the issue of illegal dumping in Philadelphia head-on, providing job opportunities for those who need it most and empowering his community to take ownership of their environment. As he says, “Once I get this trash truck, Philadelphia has no choice but to get clean.”
Get in Touch with Terrill
Want to follow Terrill’s journey, join a community clean-up, or just see the positive change he’s making in Philadelphia? Connect with him on Instagram @_yafavtrashman. Whether you’re a resident of Philadelphia or simply inspired by his story, Terrill’s mission is a reminder of the power of grassroots advocacy and the impact one person can have on an entire city.