Poundmaker Cree Nation cuts waste with reusable dishware initiative

The initiative significantly reduced waste.

“Normally we would have, I would guess 20 bags of garbage; this past event we had two.”

To ensure everyone could take part, Horse provided reusable plastic dishware to those who arrived without their own supplies. After the event, the items were collected, washed and stored for future use.

Horse said the initiative exceeded her expectations and showed a strong willingness among community members to adopt more sustainable practices. Youth she spoke with ahead of the gathering were particularly receptive.

“I told them, ‘Mother Earth is like your mother. Would you throw garbage all over your mother?’ They said ‘no’, and I said ‘Well, that’s how it is when you throw garbage on the ground.’”

Those students helped spread the word and encourage participation. Horse estimated more than half of attendees brought their own reusable supplies.

“I was just really proud of the community. They listened and we tried it; I am hoping we can do more.”

Encouraged by the success, Horse hopes environmentally friendly practices like this become a regular part of future gatherings, reducing waste while reinforcing respect for the land.

She also hopes other First Nations in the region will consider similar initiatives at large community events.

—

Alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com

by Alyssa Rudolph

Poundmaker Cree Nation cuts waste with reusable dishware initiative

What's Trending