The Annual Summer Bash reflects Jack Markell’s commitment to reducing our carbon footprint -- and green is actually the theme color of the event!  Here are some ways we are striving to be as environmentally friendly as possible: 

• Electronic registration using solar-powered electricity negates the need for tree-killing paper -- which also takes up to 38% of U.S. landfills and is the largest single component of municipal solid waste;

• The tent, the sound system and the bathrooms are rented from local companies rather than a more distant venue requiring more fuel for farther transportation, and the chairs and tables are also local;

• The centerpiece flowers are potted rather than cut so they can be planted and reused;

• Food selections are chosen which can be cooked by electrical means, thus enabling solar system electricity to be used rather than fossil fuels;

• As much food as possible is locally grown or locally purchased;

• Useable leftover food is donated;

• The beer is locally produced -- no long-distance fuel usage -- and is served in kegs rather than bottles or cans;

• Soda cans are recycled;

• Ice water in pitchers is available but plastic bottles of water are not provided, since water bottles take up to 1,000 years to biodegrade;

• Guests are asked to re-use their cups, and pens are provided to identify their cups;

• Paper plates and napkins are made from recycled materials.

 

Actually, come to think of it, it is rather easy being green!