Sustainability - Being an Eco-Friendly Protester

Peaceful protests are a great way to demonstrate your commitment toward any number of environmental and social concerns. We all want to make sure though thatwe are not exercising behaviors that may cause harm to the environment during such events, which in a way would somewhat negate our efforts. If you do participate in a peaceful protest, please take into consideration the following eco-friendly tips:

1. Take public transportation or carpool to the location of the protest.

2. Reuse scavenged cardboard to create your sign.

3. Use a reusable sign handle (examples include a broom handle or wooden stake)

4. Use biodegradable or recyclable plant-based tape (e.g., Blue Lake ECOLIFE).

5. Refuse free handouts and flyers. (I know this one is difficult, but a lot of paper is consumed during such events.)

6. Avoid bottled water; bring a reusable water bottle.

7. Bring protein snacks (e.g. nuts, trail mix) wrapped in a napkin or paper bag.

8. Bring a reusable container from home for food purchased from food trucks; avoid the extra wrappings they use. If practical, bring your own condiments (e.g., ketchup) to avoid using single-use condiment packets.

9. Know the weather so as to avoid needing a free plastic poncho if it rains.

10. Bring a paper bag for trash and pick up any trash you see along your route. Leave the environment cleaner than when you arrived.

I hope this helps. Good luck out there and stay safe!