Earth Month celebration to promote sustainability

The Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling District is set to host its inaugural Earth Month celebration, a day dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental awareness. The event will take place Saturday, April 26 at the Recycling District’s office in Bolivar from 9:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Participants can expect a lineup of guest speakers focusing on a variety of topics including sustainable gardening, beekeeping and food sustainability. The goal of the event is to educate attendees on lifestyle changes that can lead to a greener planet while providing a space for community interaction.

Check-in for the event will begin at 8:30 a.m., and attendees are encouraged to RSVP to ensure their spot, as space is limited. According to Steve Tharp Jr., the assistant executive director of the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling District, the district is hoping to attract around 40 participants for this occasion. RSVP by visiting the district’s website or calling 330-874-2258, option 1.

Speakers include Melinda Carmichael from Beech Creek Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve, Jennifer Vokoun from Walsh University focusing on Sustainable Food Design, Bob Mann from Stark County Beekeepers and Serena Solis from The Wilderness Center.

In addition to the presentations, attendees can have light refreshments. “We will have some food and drinks throughout the day, and folks can come and go as they please,” Tharp said.

The Earth Month celebration also serves as a kickoff event for the district’s Master Recycler program. Tharp highlighted the role of Master Recyclers in enhancing community environmental efforts. The Master Recycler program consists of a seven- to eight-week training course that educates participants on recycling and sustainability practices, allowing them to become proactive volunteers in the community.

“We have really been trying to figure out how we can be more of an impact on the community,” Tharp said. “I have really been wrestling with how we can incorporate this Earth Month with our Master Recyclers, and this event is like the kickoff.”

April is recognized as Earth Month, a time to celebrate the planet and consider actions that benefit the environment. The district is taking an active approach by combining community engagement with educational opportunities. Following the Earth Month celebration, additional initiatives will take place including the Master Recycler Days of Action in May, June and August, as well as hazardous waste collection events.

The district invites community members to join in this event aimed at protection and sustainability. With the support of various organizations, the Earth Month celebration promises to be a day filled with learning, growth and impact.

The people at the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling District are dedicated to environmental responsibility and offer resources and programs designed to help residents make informed decisions about waste. Visit www.timetorecycle.org, a hub for information on recycling services and upcoming events.

Join the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling District April 26 at its office located at 9918 Wilkshire Blvd. NE in Bolivar for a day devoted to protecting the planet.