Media Release

3 Days until Earth Day.

Driven by the County Commission's Guiding Vision, everyday is Earth Day in Alachua County.  In April, each day leading up to Earth Day (April 22), the County will be highlighting programs, services, and strategies designed to lead Alachua County into a more sustainable future.

To view all "Earth Day Countdown" press releases on the County's Facebook page, click here and click on the Earth Day tab at the top of the page.

April 19, 2010

4 p.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - "Embrace Zero Waste" means eliminating the inefficient use of natural resources.  This is the goal of the Alachua County Public Works Department's, Waste Alternatives Division.  The Division�s "Zero Waste Team" and "The Waste Watcher" (to go to The Waste Watcher's website, click here) will be celebrating Earth Day with interactive exhibits at these special events:

• The University of Florida on April 22, 2010 at the Plaza of the Americas from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  Activities include face painting, a clothing exchange,  plant giveaways, household hazardous waste roundup, and interactive games and opportunities to learn more about how the University of Florida and Alachua County are committed to sustainability
  
• Shands Hospital lobby on April 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  Earth Day information event with vendors representing sustainability efforts in our community
  
• The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Harn Museum of Art on April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  Activities include recycling games, crafts, painting demonstrations, live music, a dance performance, educational presentations, and organic food.  This event is open to the public

 The Waste Alternatives Division is also involved in the following projects: 

• The Phonebook-School Recycling Competition
  This Alachua County Public Schools competition ends on April 22.  Schools are competing for cash prizes to recycle the most phonebooks
  
• "Spring for Supplies" drive for Tools for Schools - April 22 to May 1
  Tools for Schools distributes new and gently used school supplies to teachers in Alachua County.  Students from the University of Florida residence halls are encouraging students and faculty to donate left over supplies from the school year to the program.  For more Tools for Schools information click here
  
• Recycling Social at Fox Hollow Apartments - April 20
  The Zero Waste Team is hosting this event, which will provide recycling tips, prizes, and information to Fox Hollow residents.  For information on recycling for your apartment community, contact Patrick at 352-374-5213.
  
• Recycling and Composting  Programs
  Student programs at area schools April 19^th and 21^st; at the Farm and Forest School Days at Morningside Nature Center on April 22^nd and 23^rd; and at the Glen Springs School campout on April 24^th  

For additional information about Embrace Zero Waste and Waste Alternatives programs, contact Jenny Seitz, Waste Alternatives Public Education Coordinator, at 352-374-5213 or jseitz@alachuacounty.us.