Can the spirit of Mardi Gras embrace an environmentally sustainable future? We sat down with Brett Davis, Founding Director of Grounds Krewe, to unravel the enigma of Mardi Gras’ environmental footprint.
This incredible event generates a staggering amount of waste, nearly 3 million pounds in the streets alone. With Brett’s expert insight, we scrutinize the complex financial environmental issues facing parades, share Grounds Krewe’s focus for improving biodegradables and reusables, and show you how they’re making a huge difference in the future of our city.
For those not familiar with Grounds Krewe, it is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a mission to promote waste prevention, recycling, and sustainable products at New Orleans special events. With 2.6 million pounds of trash produced in the streets during Mardi Gras, sustainability is a huge issue. With the work of Grounds Krewe and countless volunteers, New Orleans is taking steps in the right direction.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
1:23 – Who is Grounds Krewe?
4:00 – Trash produced by Mardi Gras
6:41 – Creating biodegradable throws
14:38 – 3 initiatives around Mardi Gras
16:41 – Taxpayer costs
22:31 – Partnerships and goods
29:17 – How to get involved