Families Invited to Learn About Plastic Pollution During Plastic-Free July at Manatee Lagoon

Families looking for fun and educational activities this summer can take part in Plastic-Free July at Manatee Lagoon – an FPL Eco-Discovery Center in West Palm Beach.

According to a press release from the organization, the month-long initiative features free events and educational programs designed to help visitors learn about the effects of plastic pollution and simple ways to protect Florida’s waterways and wildlife.

What’s Happening

Throughout July, families can participate in a variety of activities centered on conservation and sustainability.

Highlights include:

July Lecture at the Lagoon: A presentation by the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County about what plastics can be recycled, how recycling works and ways families can reduce waste at home, school and work.
Mia’s Summer Shell-A-Bration: A family event featuring outdoor games, mini tours, face painting, food trucks, educational exhibits and appearances by Mia the Manatee.
Manatee Tales Story Time: Weekly Saturday story times featuring books about ocean conservation, plastic pollution and marine animals, followed by themed crafts. Registration is required.
PlasticFree4Manatees Campaign: A month-long social media initiative encouraging community members to reduce single-use plastics.

“By raising awareness of plastic pollution and encouraging the four R’s—refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle—we can help protect our marine ecosystems,” Heather Seaman, Manatee Lagoon’s education and outreach specialist, said in the release.

Why It Matters for Local Families

Plastic-Free July gives parents an opportunity to introduce children to environmental stewardship through hands-on experiences.

According to the organization, the programs are designed to show families that small, everyday choices — such as reducing single-use plastics and properly recycling — can positively impact local waterways and marine life.

Manatee Lagoon is also encouraging residents to volunteer at a Saturday beach cleanup hosted by Loggerhead Marinelife Center during July. Officials said the cleanups provide another way for families to help reduce litter along Florida’s coastline.

Families interested in attending events can register through Manatee Lagoon’s website. Most programs are free, though some require advance registration. The center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(Image from FPL)

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