Visitors at the Ohio State Fair can now embrace sustainability with the return of the Zero Waste Space for its second year. The program, a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), Ohio EPA, Ohio Corn and Wheat, and Kroger, is located in the Taste of Ohio Café. Its goal is to educate people about recycling, composting, and conserving resources.
ODA Director Brian Baldridge emphasized the importance of waste prevention and recycling, mentioning how Ohio farmers ensure nothing goes to waste. Through the Zero Waste Space initiative, leftovers can be turned into a useful, nutrient-rich product, helping the state go green and stay clean.
After a successful pilot program last year, Zero Waste Space is expanding its reach this year. It will operate during the first half of the fair, from July 26th to July 31st, offering fairgoers valuable insights into sustainable practices.
To support the initiative, Ohio's livestock commodities serving food in the building have adopted the use of compostable products. Utensils and food scraps collected from the café will be transformed into compost, a natural plant fertilizer known as 'black gold' for its rich organic matter. This compost promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
A new addition this year is a live display outside the building, showcasing corn grown in compost soil from items collected at last year's fair. This visual representation highlights the positive impact of recycling and composting on agricultural productivity and environmental health.
Everyone is encouraged to participate in the Zero Waste Space program and learn how simple actions can contribute to a greener future. By practicing waste prevention, recycling, and composting, we can all play a part in conserving resources and reducing our environmental impact.
The Ohio State Fair, running until August 6, 2023, presents an excellent opportunity for visitors to engage with Zero Waste Space and embrace sustainable practices for a cleaner and more environmentally friendly tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Zero Waste Space Ohio
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle