In September, we joined our Mankato partners for a celebration of waste reduction efforts. The Minnesota Zero Waste Coalition, Mankato Area Zero Waste, and Beyond Plastic Greater Mankato Area hosted a Zero Waste Day in the Park at Sibley Park Pavilion in Mankato. More than 300 residents came together to learn about efforts in their community and across the state moving Minnesota towards a future free from waste.
The Mankato community is leading the way with zero waste programs and businesses. People showed up to learn about the free organics recycling program, recycle or repair their electronics, and meet fellow zero wasters. One of the event’s most active areas was the clothing and textile swap and repair stations, where attendees walked away with armfuls of items—some newly discovered and others freshly mended.
In addition to seeing zero waste in action, participants heard about recent policy successes including the Packaging Waste & Cost Reduction Act and the newly implemented Right to Repair Law. We also heard about legislation that we will continue to advocate for in 2025, including strengthening electronics recycling and removing the state’s preemption on local plastic bag bans
Organizations that tabled or presented at the event included:
To stay up to date on future MN Zero Waste Coalitions, visit the new website!
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