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Why it Matters


“34 percent of dead leatherback sea turtles have ingested plastic. Plastic bags, which resemble jellyfish, are the most commonly found synthetic item in sea turtles’ stomachs.[3]

Recycle bins

Recycling bins are a necessary step to keeping our Gulf in optimal condition. Through the process of recycling, natural recourses are conserved benefitting the natural ecosystem. Additionally, recycling prevents harmful materials from entering the gulf and harming wildlife.​

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Single-use plastic

Over 90% of waste in the Gulf of Mexico is plastic. In fact, By 2025, for every three tons of finfish swimming in the oceans, there could be one ton of plastic in marine waters.[1] Projections indicate that by 2050, the ratio of fish to plastics could be 1:1. [2] Avoiding the use of single-use plastic is the most effective method to reduce the amount of plastic produced and entered into the bay.

 

Selling sustainable options

As harmful single-use plastic items are eliminated, greener more sustainable option is needed. By selling these options, businesses are spreading sustainability beyond themselves allowing for a whole community to change.

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Locally sourced goods

Locally sourcing goods is beneficial to the environment for a variety of reasons. The CO2 emissions from local food are greatly decreased leading to a healthier environment. Additionally, the food is found to be healthier and safer as well as benefiting the local economy [4].

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Donate foods

by donating food left-overs, the food is prevented from being wasted into landfills, wherein its decomposition methane will be released, adding the harmful effects of climate change. Donating foods also benefit the local community as food pantries allow for those living in poverty access to food.

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Compost

Compost is a very important environmental process as it allows food waste to transform from a harmful waste item to an environmentally beneficial item. By composting food waste, the soil becomes capable of absorbing CO2, removing the harmful greenhouse gas from the environment, creating a healthier planet. If food waste is thrown into a landfill, by contrast, it releases methane, a toxic greenhouse gas[5]

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Watch this video we found inspirational from Kiss the Ground to learn more about compost:

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