Single-use packaging (like food take-out containers) are wasteful products that are used once, for a very short period of time, before being discarded in a landfill where they may take hundreds of years to “break down.” The environmental, social, and financial impacts of these wasteful single use products add up to make a big impact on our planet, communities, and local businesses. Luckily, “low-waste living” and the “Bring Your Own” movement has inspired many people to make a difference by choosing to reuse when dining or shopping on-the-go.

Join the UCRRA Recycling Outreach Team and Climate Smart Kingston for an engaging presentation and discussion about the benefits of reuse as a way to prevent pollution. At this special event, participants will learn about the waste-climate connection and the lifecycle of some common single use take-out containers. Come learn why choosing to reuse is not only better for our planet but may also be better for our health.

As a participant, you will receive a FREE Tiffin (stainless steel, reusable food containers)! Join us and together, let’s unlock the full power and potential of reuse! Registration for this event is required. Class size may be limited. Please reserve your seat by completing the sign-up form and survey questions linked below.

Accessibility: This event will take place indoors at the library. The facility has many ADA compliant features including accessible parking and ramp access. Please note: the use of face masks is not required at the Library.

Special thanks to the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute!

Funding is provided by the Environmental Protection Fund as administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Any opinions, findings, and/or interpretations of data contained herein are the responsibility of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the opinions, interpretations or policy of Rochester Institute of Technology and its NYS Pollution Prevention Institute or the State.

Special thanks to our Project Partner: Climate Smart Kingston!

Mission: Climate Smart Kingston is an official body appointed by the Mayor of the City of Kingston, whose charge is to implement the recommendations, initiatives, and policies set forth in the City of Kingston Climate Action Plan, adopted September 2012. The Climate Action Plan specifically addresses the importance of responsible waste management and managing resources sustainably. “[the Ulster County Tiffin project addresses issues [from the Climate Action Plan] and enables us to achieve our mission by reducing the production of solid waste and educating the community on sustainable practices” – Julie Noble, City of Kingston Sustainability Coordinator & Chair Climate Smart Kingston Commission 

Special thanks to our Project Partner: Kingston Library!

Mission: to be a vital center in our diverse community that inspires lifelong learning and empowers our citizens by providing free and equal access to information, ideas, books, and technology. “The [Ulster County Tiffin project] enables us to further achieve our mission by helping to educate members in our community about sustainability goals that are in line with our organization’s efforts, as well as providing them with resources to achieve those goals.” – Brian James, Access & Patron Services Librarian

We’re Celebrating Plastic Free July!

About Plastic Free July:  Plastic Free July® is a key initiative of the Plastic Free Foundation that allows communities everywhere to work towards a vision of seeing a world free of plastic waste. Plastic Free July is a month-long challenge to challenge yourself to not use any single use plastic. Millions of people across the globe take part every year, with many committing to reducing plastic pollution far beyond the month of July.