Every time I go to the beach, I love to walk along the shoreline to see what may have washed up from the ocean – usually several beautiful shells, oftentimes sargassum seaweed, maybe even part of a crab exoskeleton. Unfortunately, I usually ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Community Volunteers, Conservation
June 8 is World Ocean Day! The UN officially recognized World Ocean Day in 2008 to cultivate public interest in the protection of our oceans. I hope you celebrate by spending some time near the ocean and by learning more about the importance ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Camp, Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Events, UF/IFAS Extension
Almost every single piece of plastic ever made still exists. As an alternative to the traditional plastics, we are hearing a new term more and more often - bioplastics. Are bioplastics better? Dr. Maia McGuire answered this question in the last ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, WaterWater Wednesdays in September will feature Microplastics. Microplastics include plastic particles with an upper size limit of 5 mm (0.2 inch). They come from a variety of sources. If you missed the talk on Sept. 9, here is your ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
Some plastic products are labeled as “biodegradable,” “environmentally-friendly,” or “compostable.” All of these terms imply that the product will have a minimal or no negative impact on the environment. Unfortunately, the public ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural Resources, , Water
It is particularly difficult to try and reduce the amount of waste that we generate during holidays, reunions, or other “events.” Most things that we buy, from food to decorations to gift items come in packaging that must be disposed of. ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural ResourcesMany people will be entertaining or being entertained by friends and/or family over the next couple of months. It is particularly challenging to try and reduce the amount of waste that we generate during holidays. Most things that we buy, from ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural ResourcesFor the third year, the Florida Microplastic Awareness Project promoted the month of September as Microplastic Awareness Month. Around the state, there were various educational activities designed to help teach people about the problems with ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural ResourcesAlthough it will still feel like summer for several more months, the summer vacation for students is over half way through. Students will be starting back classes next month, but our 4-Hers will hopefully be taking fond memories back with them. ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Camp,World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5 and World Oceans Day is June 8. In 2018, the theme for both days is the same: reducing plastic pollution. UF/IFAS Extension's Florida Microplastic Awareness Project has a pledge that people are encouraged ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources