Manatee Lagoon Launches Plastic Free July Initiative to Promote Environmental Awareness
Manatee Lagoon is bringing back Plastic Free July, a month-long educational initiative aimed at raising awareness about the environmental impacts of plastic. Committed to inspiring individuals and communities to take action towards a plastic-free future, Manatee Lagoon will offer educational content and free events, including a lecture on plastics and a fun #PlasticFree4Manatees social media campaign that encourage individuals to join the movement towards plastic-free living.
On Sunday, July 13 at 2 p.m., Manatee Lagoon will host its July Lecture at the Lagoon. Dive into a world of eco-friendly practices as our expert environmental speakers spotlight the global plastic crisis and its effects on marine life. Enjoy delicious offerings from onsite food trucks and leave inspired to make a difference. Attendees are encouraged to register for the lecture at VisitManateeLagoon.com.
As part of the initiative, Manatee Lagoon’s Manatee Tales Story Time on Saturday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m. will feature “The Mess That We Made.” This story highlights the impact of trash and plastic on the ocean and marine life. Attendees can enjoy the tale brought to life, followed by a themed craft activity. Registration is required.
“We are excited to take our dedication to the environment to new heights with Plastic Free July and invite individuals, families and businesses to be part of the collective effort to combat plastic pollution,” said Manatee Lagoon Education and Outreach Specialist Heather Seaman. “By raising awareness, encouraging behavior change and promoting the four ‘R’s (refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle), we believe we can make a significant impact in protecting our precious marine ecosystems.”
Throughout the month of July, Manatee Lagoon is encouraging the community to participate in a beach cleanup at Loggerhead Marinelife Center to take action against littering. Volunteers can sign up at https://marinelife.org/conservation/beach-cleanups/ and select a Saturday to attend.
For more information and to stay up to date with Manatee Lagoon’s Plastic Free July initiatives, please visit www.VisitManateeLagoon.com and follow the hashtag #PlasticFreeForManatees.
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for manatee fans near and far on its website: VisitManateeLagoon.com. The center is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for major holidays.
Plastic-Free Tips for Everyday Life
Small swaps make a big difference—for the planet and our manatees!
- Store food in glass or stainless containers
- Bring reusable bags and produce sacks to the grocery store
- Choose products in cardboard, glass, or metal over plastic packaging
- If that is not an option, choose items with minimal or recyclable packaging
- Buy in bulk and avoid individually packaged snacks
- Carry a reusable water bottle and utensils
- Say “no” to plastic straws, lids, and cutlery – bring your own stainless straw
- Pack lunches in reusable containers
Protect marine life—go plastic-free this July!
Follow along: #PlasticFree4Manatees
VisitManateeLagoon.com