How You Can Participate in Plastic Free July with Manatee Lagoon

By Julia Bauer
Children at Manatee Lagoon

Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center®  is launching its Plastic Free July initiative. This is a monthlong plan aiming to raise awareness and educate the public about how plastic affects the environment. This initiative also includes special event July 14 and #PlasticFree4Manatees social media challenges on social media encouraging the community to start living plastic-free.

The center’s goal is to “empower locals and visitors to make conscious choices that benefit the environment,” according to the Manatee Lagoon press release. Manatee Lagoon will be “highlighting the damaging effects of plastic pollution and showcasing innovative alternatives.”

How Can You Participate in Plastic Free July?

The center will host its educational lecture event July 14 at 2 p.m., according to the press release. Environmental experts will explain the global plastic crisis and how marine life is being affected, and visitors will get the opportunity to “learn practical tips and strategies for reducing their plastic consumption and contribute to a greener, more sustainable planet.” This event will also feature environmentally friendly food trucks and arts and crafts activities for kids.

Manatee Lagoon is also encouraging individuals to volunteer at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center beach cleanups, according to the press release. These cleanups are held every Saturday morning and help combat littering.

Additionally, Manatee Lagoon has a green business certification. This emphasizes the center’s “commitment to sustainable practices and reducing their own plastic footprint,” according to the press release. “Manatee Lagoon hopes to inspire other organizations to follow suit and adopt eco-friendly practices.”

“We are excited to take our dedication to the environment to new heights with Plastic Free July and invite individuals, families and businesses to be part of the collective effort to combat plastic pollution,” said Heather Seaman, Education and Outreach Specialist at Manatee Lagoon, according to the press release. “By raising awareness, encouraging behavior change and promoting the four ‘R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle, repurpose), we believe we can make a significant impact in protecting our precious marine ecosystems.”

Visit www.VisitManateeLagoon.com and follow the hashtag #PlasticFreeForManatees to learn more about Plastic Free July.

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