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There are a lot of things in the world that we take notice to, and some stand out more than others.
Like a number of celebrations including Earth Day which continues to grab the attention of people all over the world.
Celebrating such a day is one thing, but figuring out what to do is another.
That’s one of the many challenges that Earth Day fanatics often find themselves trying to figure out.
In celebration of Earth Day’s 50th anniversary on April 22, VISIT FLORIDA is shining a light on how destinations across the state are making strides towards sustainability.
As we look to the future, its vital that eco-friendly practices are top of mind to preserve the health and wellbeing of the Sunshine State’s natural resources for generations to come.
Sustainability Initiatives
In November 2019, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the nation’s largest private conservation grant-maker, announced that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
This project will implement up to 1,000 acres of oyster reef restoration in Apalachicola Bay. It includes the development of oyster harvest management strategies for Apalachicola Bay and Suwanee Sound to ensure the sustainability of restored reefs.
The local community in Brevard County recently voted to approve a half-cent sales tax to be used over the next 10 years as part of the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project.
The program focuses on a number of restoration projects, including the removal of derelict vessels from the waterway.
Tastes of Sustainability
Tallahassee has a thriving cultural sustainability scene. It is home to RedEye Coffee, providing organic brew that is both safe to birds and fairly traded by small farmers.
The Bunker Hill Vineyard and Winery in the Bradenton Area doesn’t just use local grapes but recycles and composts nearly everything. Even their irrigation system is solar-powered.
In Amelia Island, The Sprouting Project at the Omni Amelia Island Resort, features a state-of-the-art aquaponic greenhouse, an expansive organic garden, a large collection of beehives, and a barrel room.
Its sixteen colonies of bees are both educational and make tasty additions to the resort’s dishes.
Back to Nature
With 2,000 miles of coastline, 175 state parks, 320 freshwater springs, and more than 1,300 trails, Florida offers endless breathing room to enjoy and appreciate the state’s natural playground.
One of the greenest ways to get around is to paddle. From canoeing to kayaking, to stand-up paddleboarding, there are endless opportunities to reconnect with nature along the waterways.
Florida Hikes! offers a comprehensive overview of paddling trails across the state.
Voluntourism
Future travelers to the Sunshine State have the opportunity to leave a positive mark by participating in eco-initiatives in various local communities.
In the Florida Keys and Key West, it’s all about volunteering in the name of coral restoration.
The second Friday of each month is Coral Restoration Day. Visitors can participate in working dives to coral nurseries, to learn about how the animals are raised and transported to restoration sites.
At the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, located in St. Petersburg, volunteers can work alongside the local parks and preserve managers on a variety of tasks including removing invasive plants, planting native plants, and trash clean-ups.
There is also an opportunity to become a citizen scientist by participating in an environmental monitoring program.
With the idea of VISIT FLORIDA, you are going to have more than enough opportunities for new experiences. Planning the perfect Earth Day celebration doesn’t have to be difficult.
For more information on the Sunshine State or to plan a 2020 vacation to Florida, visit www.VISITFLORIDA.com.