Plastics are threatening our environment and health in ways that are not widely known, and the issues surrounding plastics recycling are not well understood.

Now that its work with local restaurants to reduce single-use plastics is in full swing, the Woods & Wetlands Plastics Team is beginning a second major initiative: educating the public about the dangers of plastic pollution and how individuals can make a difference.

An education working group has outlined plans to make presentations to groups and to reach the wider public through social media. The work is beginning with the compilation of facts, figures, graphics and slides to create a slide bank. This will make it easier to develop customized presentations for specific audiences, including both children and adults. The presentations will be designed to educate people about the nature of the problem. They will also provide practical ways for individuals to reduce the demand for single-use plastics and the plastic waste stream.

With the help of Spanish-speaking volunteers, the group hopes to make presentations available in Spanish. 

The next step will be contacting schools, libraries, residential communities, clubs, local governments and communities of faith to create opportunities for raising awareness and changing habits.

Volunteers are needed to help with research, presentation development, Spanish translation and presentation, as well as identifying contacts and contacting organizations that could host the team’s presentations. Volunteers are also planning regular social media posts designed to educate and inspire action. 

To learn more or to volunteer for any of the Plastics Team’s initiatives, please contact Sharon Starr at scwwprojects@gmail.com.

Image by Sharon Starr.