Vermonters Gear Up for 55th Annual Green Up Day with a Kentucky Derby Twist
On Saturday, Vermonters will come together to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Green Up Day, a statewide event dedicated to cleaning up trash and promoting environmental stewardship. This year, organizers are adding a festive Kentucky Derby theme to attract even more volunteers. Participants will have the chance to engage in a hat contest inspired by the Derby, enjoy live music, and take advantage of food and drink deals at local breweries and bars.
Green Up Vermont Executive Director Kate Alberghini noted a steady increase in participation since she joined the nonprofit in 2019. Following a dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event saw a remarkable 30% increase in volunteers from 2023 to 2024, spurred by a campaign aimed at breaking the Guinness World Record for pledges to pick up trash in 24 hours.
Initiated on April 18, 1970, just a week before the first Earth Day, Green Up Day has grown from a single day of action into an ongoing commitment to sustainability. Volunteers have successfully removed over 404 tons of trash in recent years. However, Alberghini emphasizes that the mission extends beyond one day, as the organization continually educates Vermonters on waste reduction strategies.
Governor Phil Scott, speaking at U-32 Middle and High School during a recent press conference, highlighted this year’s event as an essential community effort to combat waste. He acknowledged the youth’s concerns about climate change, urging lawmakers to listen to the younger generation.
Vermonters eager to volunteer this Saturday can visit the Green Up Vermont website for local event details, reinforcing the state’s strong environmental ethos.
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