Jacksonville, FL — The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is inviting you to join the month-long Plastic Free EcoChallenge being promoted by zoos and aquariums across the US.
The zoo says the challenge is all about helping participants incorporate at least one or two plastic-free habits into their lives during the 31 day campaign.
"Sadly, many plastics are not recycled and comprise 73% of beach litter, while killing one million marine birds and 100,000 marine animals yearly. As plastic consumption continues to grow around the world, we are proud to make a reduction here at the Zoo-- starting with Plastic Free July," says Lucas Meers, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Conservation Program Officer.
In addition to this 31-day challenge, the zoo is also pledging to reduce single-use plastics across the park on a long term basis.
Beginning July 1st, the Zoo says it’s removing all plastic bags from its gift shops. Reusable gift bags will now be available instead.
The zoo says it previously removed single-use plastic straws from its restaurants years ago, but will now be eliminating the use of plastic salad containers and lids on medium-sized cups.
During this campaign, the zoo says guests can bring their own reusable cups to receive $1 refills on drinks.
If you're interested in joining the challenge, you can sign up HERE.