Submitted by Kristin Battistoni.
Higganum Congregational Church will host a community forum on Tuesday, Sept 24, 2019 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. to present information on plastic pollution, its impact on the planet, and what residents can do about it.
Co-sponsored by the Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, the First Congregational Church of Haddam, and Higganum Congregational Church, attendees will view a 22-minute version of “A Plastic Ocean,” an award-winning documentary on the impact of plastics on our ocean. Panelists will discuss the plastic pollution in CT’s rivers, recycling efforts, upcoming state legislation to regulate single-use plastic, and the successful efforts of Haddam residents to reduce plastic in their town. The event is free, but registration is required.
Rev. Michelle Madsen-Bibeau, interim pastor at Higganum Congregational Church, said that the church was excited to be a part of the event. “Our church members are parents and grandparents, boaters and other sports enthusiasts, farmers and small business owners- all with an interest in keeping our community and state safe and beautiful. We are delighted to be able to host this event where we can learn more about how.”
Panelists will include Lou Burch, CT Campaign Director of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Anne Hulick, CT Director for Clean Water Action, and Board members of the Town of Haddam’s Sustainability Committee. Following individual presentations, panelists will answer questions about how residents can combat plastic pollution.
“Every faith tradition speaks of caring for the planet,” said Terri Eickel, of the Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, “and our moral imperative for living in ways that reflect our responsibilities as stewards. Plastic pollution has become a terrible problem, impacting wildlife and exposing people to increased toxin levels.
The forum was organized to provide information regarding plastic pollution in Connecticut streams and rivers and on our shores. It will highlight the recent efforts by residents of the town of Haddam to eliminate plastic pollution through a plastic bag collection sponsored by Trex. Kristin Battistoni, one of the organizers of the effort, stated, “The Town of Haddam has partnered with Trex to eliminate plastic from town. In our first 6 month challenge we recycled 2424.6 lbs of plastic that would have normally been thrown in the landfill. We are very proud of the efforts our residents are having on the environment.” More information about the Town of Haddam’s successful program will be available at the forum.
The forum will begin at 6:30 p.m. and last until 8:00 p.m. with a light dinner served at 6:00 p.m. To register, please visit https://drowninginplastic.eventbrite.com
Higganum Congregational Church is located at 23 Parsonage Road in Higganum. To view more information on the forum, please visit www.irejn.org.
