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STEWARDSHIP >> ECOFRIENDLY TIPS
LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS
ECOFRIENDLY TIPS FOR EXPLORING AND ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS
The Green Outdoors STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY CA MERON COBB
When it comes to adventure, Florida’s got a whole lot more to offer than just Disney World. Need inspiration? Just step outdoors. Whether your forte be floating atop crystal waters in one of more than 200 springs, strolling parallel to sunsets along the Gulf of Mexico’s sandy shore or trekking deeper into the 17 million acres of lush forests, there’s something for everyone to love about the Sunshine State. But with pollution piling on and posing an increased threat to local plant and wildlife, it can be difficult to imagine the future always staying sunny. To help ensure the diverse and delicate ecosystems of Florida remain something everyone can love, here are some eco-friendly tips to get you going green when enjoying the great outdoors. 48 |
OUR TOWN MAGAZINE
MARCH/APRIL 2019
DITCH DISPOSABLES According to epa.gov, “one-third to two-thirds of the debris we catalog on beaches comes from single-use, disposable plastic packaging from food and beverage-related goods and services (things like plastic cups, bottles, straws, utensils, and stirrers).” What do these items have in common? Obviously, they’re harmful to the environment – but more importantly, all can be easily replaced with more eco (and wallet) friendly options. Plastic cups/bottles: If you’ve ever attended college, job orientation, or, you know, pretty much any tabling event, chances are you’ve got at least one (dozen) reusable water bottles lying around. And while conveniently fillable at any public water fountain, the refreshing taste of rust and someone else’s spit might not feel quite as hydrating as that of a single-use bottle. However, with the help of a filter it can! Filtered water