Purple, Gold & Green Celebration
New Orleans has long been synonymous with good times, excess, and, most of all, Mardi Gras. In fact, over a million people travel to the Crescent City every year during Mardi Gras season; however, this iconic festival comes with an environmental cost.
Each Carnival season generates an estimated 1,000 tons of waste, which ends up in landfills and catch basins. What's the good news? The sustainability movement within Mardi Gras is growing stronger every year, offering practical ways for revelers to enjoy the festivities while minimizing their impact.
The Problem with Mardi Gras Waste
From discarded beads to single-use cups, the waste generated during Mardi Gras is staggering. In just 11 days of parades, 2.5 million pounds of trash are swept from the streets. Items, particularly plastic beads, can clog storm drains, contribute to flooding, and take centuries to decompose. This waste doesn't just litter the streets. It often ends up in local waterways, harming wildlife and our ecosystem.
Plastics from parade throws can break down into microplastics, which harm aquatic species in wetlands and waterways. Birds and fish often ingest these particles, mistaking them for food. Toxic chemicals from decomposing plastics can also leach into the soil and water, affecting local communities and fisheries.
The impacts of our waste go beyond the environment. Louisiana's wetlands are vital for the state's economy. The degradation of these ecosystems due to pollution can have significant impacts and affect our livelihoods. The strain on the municipal waste system is also immense, and cleanup costs the city of New Orleans over a million dollars each year. This has sparked a need for innovative, eco-friendly solutions that balance the festive spirit of Mardi Gras with a commitment to sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Floats and Biodegradable Beads
The rise of eco-friendly practices during Mardi Gras is paving the way for a greener celebration. Initiatives such as ArcGNO's bead recycling program help minimize waste by collecting unwanted beads, cleaning them, and reselling them for reuse. By participating in such programs, parade krewes and attendees alike can reduce the environmental footprint of the festivities.
The Krewe of Tucks, known for its playful and creative traditions, has taken steps toward sustainability by ensuring that its iconic toilet paper throws are dissolvable and eco-friendly. This effort aligns with city guidelines to reduce the environmental impact of parade throws while keeping the fun spirit of the krewe alive.
Recycling Initiatives on the Parade Route
A highlight of the sustainability movement is the Recycle Dat! initiative, organized by NOLA Ready and the Mayor's Office of Resilience and Sustainability. Recycling hubs are set up along the Uptown parade route during weekend day parades, with convenient locations near iconic stops such as Harmony Circle and Napoleon Avenue. These hubs accept aluminum cans, plastic, glass, and beads, making it easy for parade-goers to do their part.
Residents can also take advantage of year-round recycling options across the city. Glass Half Full, located at 3935 Louisa St., accepts glass for recycling into sandbags and other useful products. ArcGNO operates drop-boxes for bead recycling, with locations at community hubs including Zuppardo's Family Supermarket in Metairie and the Uptown Recycling Center. For aluminum cans, EMR Metal Recycling at 2525 Lafitte Ave. in Mid-City is a convenient option.
How Revelers Can Help
Revelers have a unique opportunity to support a greener Mardi Gras by taking simple yet impactful steps. One effective way is to bring reusable items, such as refillable cups for drinks or reusable containers for snacks, to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Parade-goers can also make an effort to pick up discarded throws in their area, helping to prevent these items from ending up in storm drains or landfills. Remember the mantra "Pack It In and Pack It Out." This mantra encourages everyone to leave the parade route as clean as they found it, ensuring a better experience for all attendees.
Volunteering at recycling hubs is another way to contribute. With short four-hour shifts, volunteers distribute recycling bags and assist parade-goers in properly disposing of items such as beads, aluminum cans, and glass. Plus, there are fun perks for volunteers, including fanny packs, t-shirts, and brewery coupons, making it an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Local Organizations Leading the Charge
Several organizations are working tirelessly to reduce Mardi Gras waste and promote sustainable practices. Grounds Krewe partners with parade krewes to provide education and support for eco-friendly celebrations. YLC Recycles collaborates with the city to manage recycling services along parade routes, ensuring materials such as beads, cans, and glass are properly processed. Meanwhile, Restart Recycling focuses on reducing single-use plastics and fostering community awareness about waste reduction. These groups, along with local businesses including Glass Half Full, play a crucial role in driving the city's sustainability movement forward.
A Greener Future for Mardi Gras
As the sustainability movement continues to grow, Mardi Gras presents a unique opportunity for New Orleans to lead by example, blending its rich traditions with a forward-thinking commitment to environmental responsibility. By embracing these eco-friendly practices, we can ensure this iconic celebration remains a vibrant testament to our culture, creativity, and community spirit—without leaving behind a trail of waste.
Whether you're a local steeped in Mardi Gras traditions or a first-time visitor eager to join the festivities, remember that every small action counts. Choosing sustainable throws, participating in recycling programs, and being mindful of our collective impact can transform the way we celebrate. Together, we can honor the essence of Mardi Gras while preserving the city we love for generations to come.
Let's raise our glasses—and our commitment—to a cleaner, greener Mardi Gras, ensuring that this festival remains a symbol of joy and resilience for years to come.
