America Recycles Day

The Problem With Plastics

Did you know that less than 10% of all plastic used in the U.S. is recycled annually, with over 30,000 tons ending up in landfills? Join the City of Columbia’s Recycling Ambassadors for a program celebrating the 30th anniversary of America Recycles Day. Explore interactive displays and a presentation beginning at 6:30 p.m. Adults and families with kids in fourth grade or older.

Did you know that less than 10% of all plastic used in the U.S. is recycled annually, with over 30,000 tons ending up in landfills? The statistics are staggering. By 2050, plastic in the ocean will weigh more than ALL the fish. Microplastics have been found in every human organ. 22% of all plastic is neither recycled nor landfilled and becomes litter. All plastics take an average of 1,000 years to break down. Plastic is a BIG problem.

Join the City of Columbia’s Recycling Ambassadors for an interactive program on plastic pollution and solutions for the 30th anniversary of America Recycles Day. Displays and presentation will cover:

• The Rise of Single-Use Plastics: Understand the reasons behind our excessive plastic consumption.
• Recyclability: Discover which plastics can actually be recycled and which cannot.
• Local Guidelines: Learn how to recycle plastics effectively in Columbia.
• Reducing Waste: Get practical tips to minimize plastic use in your daily life.

Bonus: Sign up for the Plastic Free Challenge and commit to reducing your plastic footprint!

Explore interactive displays starting at 6 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.

Adults and families with kids in fourth grade or older.

Upcoming events