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- 316 United Newsletter May 4, 2024
316 United Newsletter May 4, 2024
Wichita Documenters | Local Events | Recycling in ICT
Randi Thimesch
May 03, 2024
A note from Randi
Welcome new subscribers who signed up at the Earth Day United
Congrats to all the volunteers at the Ark River Clean up event last Saturday. Organizers reported 947 bags of trash collected with the estimated weight of 9 tons! Every piece of trash gathered in Wichita Kansas helps keep our ocean a little cleaner.
Wichita has several active groups who work diligently to keep our river cleared of trash. I am very appreciative of their work.
However -
It is important to remember the plastic problem is not inherently a consumer problem. Manufacturers have lead us to believe that the consumer’s lackluster response to recycling plastics is the real problem, rather than acknowledging the manufacturer’s responsibility for sustainability. The amount of plastic that is manufactured, used once, and discarded is staggering. Take a look at a few facts:
It is estimated that 75 to 199 million tons of plastic are currently in our oceans.
One million plastic bottles are purchased every minute worldwide.
Making one plastic water bottle requires six times as much water as the bottle itself contains.
Of the seven billion tons of plastic waste generated globally to date, only 10% has been recycled.
Curtailing the production, consumption, and disposal of plastics will require a multifaceted approach involving government, corporations, consumers, and science. Developing alternative materials and sustainable packaging solutions could make a big difference to reduce the reliance on plastics.
In the meantime, consumers and businesses need to do their best to limit their use of plastic and recycle as much as possible.
One of the most exciting developments in our city over the past year has been the creation of Wichita Documenters. This project is made possible through a gift from the Wichita Foundation and in partnership of the Wichita Journalism Collaborative members The Community Voice, The Journal, KMUW, The Wichita Beacon, Planeta Venus.
I am excited to join the Wichita Documenter and there is still plenty of time for you to join too. How people consume their news is changing and it is important to support journalism rather than sensationalism. You, too, can support civic engagement. Click on this link to learn more.
Until next time, Randi
Upcoming Local Events
Seeking Volunteers to help with community gardening
Weekly Events
RECYCLE - REUSE - CONSERVE
WATER CONSERVATION REBATE INFORMATION
It's back! Our city council members voted yesterday to bring back water rebates. • Rebates will be credited to applicant’s Water Utility account.
Up to $50 for dual flush toilet conversion kits
Up to $100 for hose faucet irrigation controllers
$75 for a rain barrel
Up to $100 for rain sensor-shutoffs
Up to $100 for smart irrigation controllers
$35 for a toilet repair kit
Hurry. Only $75,000 is available and it will surely go fast! For any questions about the conservation rebate program Call 316.268.4470 or Email: [email protected]
PRo Kansas Recycling
You always feel better when you leave the recycling center
DID YOU KNOW…
PRo Kansas Recycling sells used moving boxes for $1 each. No need to buy expensive boxes from U-Haul.
For more information about what PRo Kansas Recycling accepts, please refer to this document. PRo Kansas is open 3 times a week. Check the website for the hours it is open.
ICT Treehuggers needs your unwanted t-shirts to share with their gardening friends. Button down long sleeved shirts are also welcomed to protect arms from the sun and brambles. Drop off your donation at Lola Candle Company, 1029 W Douglas, Suite 101, Dummy Apparel Company, 2721 E Central, Suite 205, Sunflour Cafe and Collective, 6120 W Central Ave. Deadline: June 1, 2024. For more information call 316.573.8161 or email [email protected]
For more information about ICT Treehuggers and how you can volunteer, check out their Linktr.ee - https://linktr.ee/ictreehuggers