Chelan Earth Day Fair aims for zero waste

CHELAN  - The annual Chelan Earth Day Fair, now in its 35th year, will take place on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Chelan's Riverwalk Park. This year, fair organizers are collaborating with Waste Loop of Leavenworth to reduce the amount of waste generated during the event.

In an effort to minimize the fair's environmental impact, a three-bin system will be implemented, consisting of recyclables, compostables, and landfill waste. Staff and students from the Chelan School of Innovation will engage with the public to educate them on proper waste disposal.

Local companies Winton Composting and Tekni-Plex from Wenatchee are also joining the initiative. Winton Composting will handle food waste, while Tekni-Plex will recycle Styrofoam and number 6 plastics, such as coffee cup lids.

“It’s been our long time goal to find ways to responsibly handle the food containers and other trash generated by the fair”, says Co-Coordinator Leslie Myers, “and Waste Loop’s involvement gives us the opportunity.”

In addition to the zero waste initiative, the fair will feature its annual lineup of music, food, vendors, and environmental information. This year's theme, "Be Fire Ready," will provide valuable information on creating defensible spaces. Representatives from various environmental and service organizations will be present, along with over 75 vendors, plant starts, and a used book sale.

The musical lineup includes performances by Dan Quigley, Brittany Jean, The Kevin Jones Band, and The Bada Bings.

As one of the longest-running Earth Day fairs in the state, the Chelan Earth Day Fair continues to serve as an unofficial start to spring while promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.