ReThink Waste Fair Returns To Greenwich With Recycling Drive, Sustainability Events

GREENWICH, CT — Waste Free Greenwich is inviting the community to the fifth annual ReThink Waste Fair on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich.

The family-friendly event is designed to encourage residents to explore ways to reduce waste through the "6Rs": Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle and Rot.

"The ReThink Waste Fair demonstrates that there’s a better way than throw away!” said Julie DesChamps, founder and chair of Waste Free Greenwich, in a news release. "This event is all about fun, simple ways to live sustainably - from recycling food scraps and choosing reusables to exploring new skills like 'scrappy cooking' and mending."

The fair will feature vendors and interactive exhibits focused on low-waste living, including an eco-marketplace with upcycled accessories, sustainable kitchenware and low-waste beauty products. Community partners are expected to provide information, children’s activities, clothing repair demonstrations and composting education.

First Selectman Fred Camillo is scheduled to issue an Earth Day proclamation, and the Greenwich Sustainability Committee will announce recipients of its annual Sustainability Awards.

Organizers said a series of demonstrations throughout the afternoon will highlight plastic-free household solutions, clothing repair basics, reducing kitchen waste, proper recycling practices and student research on plastic-eating enzymes.

The event will also include a collection drive for hard-to-recycle items such as plastic film, textiles and batteries, along with donation opportunities for local organizations.

Phones will be accepted for Cell Phones for Soldiers, eyeglasses for the Greenwich Lions Club, school supplies for the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich, and trial-size toiletries for New Covenant Center.

Organizers said residents should visit the event website for a full list of accepted items and donation guidelines.

The indoor event has a suggested $5 donation, which includes entry into raffle prize drawings. Residents are encouraged to register in advance.

More information and registration are available at www.wastefreegreenwich.org.