Our To Protect with John Morley (EP 51)

Ours to Protect is a unique and exciting audio project – a collaboration of local and regional broadcasters from across the country who have come together to tackle climate change, champion climate action, and inform and educate audiences all over Ireland about how they can make a difference.

Today on ‘Ours To Protect’ John Morley talks to Aine May Hughes, Sustainability Co-ordinator with Native Events about a guide to achieving plastic free festivals with

 

Did you know…

• Plastic-free festivals focus on minimizing plastic waste by encouraging the use of reusable or biodegradable alternatives for items like cups, plates, and cutlery. This helps reduce the environmental impact of the event and promotes sustainability.
• Many plastic-free festivals implement initiatives such as water refill stations, composting facilities, and eco-friendly packaging to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated during the event. These efforts aim to create a more environmentally conscious and responsible event experience.
• By promoting plastic-free practices, festivals not only reduce their ecological footprint but also raise awareness about the importance of sustainable practices among attendees. Plastic-free festivals serve as examples of how large events can be organized in an environmentally friendly manner, inspiring positive changes in behavior and promoting a greener lifestyle.

 

 

Why is it important that energy consumers embrace solar?

• Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to the environment, especially marine ecosystems. By transitioning to plastic-free festivals, we can help reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in oceans, rivers, and natural habitats, protecting wildlife and ecosystems from harm.
• Moving towards plastic-free festivals helps raise awareness about the detrimental effects of single-use plastics on the environment. It encourages attendees, organizers, and vendors to adopt more sustainable practices and rethink their reliance on disposable plastics, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
• Embracing plastic-free initiatives at festivals contributes to a larger global effort to combat climate change and promote sustainability. By reducing plastic waste, conserving resources, and minimizing carbon emissions associated with plastic production, these events play a vital role in creating a more eco-friendly and resilient future for our planet.

 

What can I do to help support solar energy initiatives?

 

• Opt for reusable alternatives: Bring your own reusable water bottle, utensils, and containers to the festival to reduce the need for single-use plastics. By using reusable items, you can help minimize waste and support the eco-friendly initiatives of the event.
• Participate in waste separation: Follow the waste disposal guidelines provided at the festival, such as sorting your waste into recycling, compost, and landfill bins. Proper waste separation ensures that materials are recycled or disposed of responsibly, reducing the environmental impact of the event.
• Spread awareness: Educate others about the importance of plastic-free practices and encourage them to make sustainable choices at the festival. By sharing information about the benefits of reducing plastic waste and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, you can inspire positive change and promote a greener event experience for all attendees.

Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!

• mywaste.ie
• nativeevents.ie
• https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-the-environment-climate-and-communications/