Millions Of People Expected To Celebrate America Recycles Day

TALLAHASSEE - Today, on the Sixth Annual America Recycles Day, millions of people nationwide will learn about recycling and will commit to environmental citizenship by increasing their recycling activities. Governor Jeb Bush echoed President George W. Bush’s declaration of November 15 as America Recycles Day by encouraging communities throughout Florida to “Make Every Day America Recycles Day.”

Hosted by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), an event held today at the Capitol Complex was one of more than 800 America Recycles Day celebrations scheduled nationwide. Exhibits and activities focused on the principles of recycling, reusing and reducing waste. Allan Bedwell, DEP Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs, showed his support for Florida Recycles Day by joining events in the state’s capital to host a Junk Art contest and announce the Florida school winners of the recent "Name the Recycle Guys" contest. Winners of the “Name the Recycle Guys” contest were Essrig Elementary School (Tampa), South Lake Elementary (Titusville), Lincoln High School (Tallahassee), Fort Braden School (Tallahassee), St. Joseph’s Episcopal School (Boynton Beach), Holley Navarre Intermediate School (Navarre) and Binks Forest Elementary (Wellington).

“Waste reduction is not only vital to the sustainability of Florida’s natural resources, it also makes economic sense,” said Bedwell. “What may appear to be a small act is really important. By taking personal responsibility for managing waste, we can reduce pollution and reap the far-reaching environmental and financial benefits generated from a thriving recycling and reuse industry.”

Now in its sixth year, America Recycles Day reminds all Americans of our nation's bountiful resources and of our personal responsibility as stewards to care for those resources. Last year, nearly one million Americans took the America Recycles Day pledge to prevent and reduce waste. This year, as an incentive to those who pledged to increase their recycling activities and purchase environmentally preferred and recycled products, event organizers offered several national prizes. Five Trek aluminum 24-speed bicycles and one $250 Staples, Inc. gift certificate will be awarded through a random drawing of pledge cards, including those submitted electronically.