I spent the day in DC today the the Green Festival volunteering. I was on the “green team” with the responsibility of manning the
recycle/trash/compost bins. I spent approximately 3 hours with one other volunteer directing people where to put the items that they were disposing of. I thought it was very cool to have a “behind-the scenes” look at the trash produced at the festival. The staff who greeted us when we first arrived told us that there were only 6 trash bags from Saturday, I was shocked, this was a big event with a lot of people, it is quite an undertaking to reduce the waste of this large a group.
When we got to our station I soon realized why the amount of trash was so little. The only things thrown away were plastic candy and snack wrappers. All of the food vendors were required to provide compostable plates, cups, silverware and napkins. The other materials were all recycleable including paper, plastic #1-6 and any metals, even coat hangers! Our first bin to fill up was the compost bin, the other two (trash and recycling) did not fill up during our shift.
Not only did my volunteer position help to sort the waste for the event, but myself and my partner also ha d hand in helping people to understand what their options are for their own waste. We discovered that corn-made clear cups breakdown in 45-60 days in a compost pile and we were also part of a little documentary about the events waste put on by 2b4theworld.com an environmental activist group promoting sustainability.
I am happy to have played a part in such an important event to bring greater awareness to sustainable living.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Looks like a fabulous event! I’m looking forward to the 350 event on the 24th. I’ll be posting about it on friday.
very cool for you on volunteering. That is so fabulous!!
Wow! Thanks for sharing. Sounds like you were busy but had a good time!