Project Front Yard’s Tips for a More Sustainable Independence Day
As preparations continue for a patriotic day of red, white and blue this Independence Day, Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG) and Project Front Yard (PFY) invites Lafayette Parish residents to consider making the holiday a little greener.
“The 4th of July is a celebration of our nation's independence and often a day of outdoor family fun, food and fireworks. It is also one of the many holidays that creates a great deal of litter and unnecessary waste,” says PFY Coordinator Skyra Rideaux. “But, by encouraging small behavioral changes, the hope is that our July 4th celebrations can also be "liberated" from litter.”
PFY’s Tips for a Greener Independence Day:
· Reuse and Repurpose Decorations
This is an opportunity to get creative with old decorations. A broken tabletop flag could be added to a door wreath. Mason jars can be painted and reused as themed utensil holders. The goal is to get more than a single use out of an item. This is good for the environment as well as your budget.
· Choose reusable tableware instead of single-use disposables
According to Keep America Beautiful, single-use plastic litter has increased by 165% since 1969. It is a convenient, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly way to use what you already own. If that is not an option, opting for more sustainably sourced paper products over single use plastics and polystyrene (Styrofoam) items can still make a significant difference.
· Leave a space better than you found it
Nine billion tons of litter ends up in our bayous and oceans every year. Much of it is street litter that enters storm drains and other waterways. Do your part, pick up any litter or debris you see while visiting our public parks and events and leave our public spaces better than you found them.
· Attend a Fireworks Display
Create less waste and litter by leaving the fireworks to the professionals. Residents are encouraged to attend public fireworks displays where available in local municipalities such as Downtown’s Uncle Sam’s Jam, Broussard Independence Festival in Broussard and Fireworks at the Pond in Youngsville.
About Project Front Yard
Project Front Yard is a community-driven initiative that empowers businesses, civic organizations and individuals to take action on making Lafayette the most vibrant, lively and beautiful community anywhere in the world. We work to restore our communities and neighborhoods through litter abatement, improved streetscapes, and revitalized gateways; preserve our character by creating more green spaces and advocate for economically and environmentally sustainable practices.