OVERLAND PARK, KS – Plastic pollution is a growing challenge for our planet, affecting ecosystems and wildlife. Even our scenic National Parks, meant to be havens of natural beauty, are seeing an increase in plastic waste. If we don’t change our habits, plastic production could soon take up a large part of the Earth's carbon budget. The best way to tackle this critical issue isn't simply by cleaning it up— but by reducing our use of plastic.
In a pioneering effort to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability, ExplorUS, a hospitality management company that operates in National Parks across the country, is teaming up with the national non-profit Clean Water Fund and their ReThink Disposable program to phase out single-use plastic food and beverage packaging at the iconic Mammoth Cave National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, and Silver Gull and Breezy Point Beach Clubs within Gateway National Recreation Area. This 2-year project, made possible by a generous grant from the National Park Foundation, aims to replace disposable items with durable, reusable alternatives to significantly reduce waste.
The strategy has three main goals: First, enrich the knowledge base around source reduction and the economic trade-off implementing reuse and refill in a National Park setting. Second, to replace disposable plastics with eco-friendly alternatives such as reusable plates, cups, utensils, and refillable water stations. And third, to eliminate 3 to 5 million pieces of single-use foodware per year going forward.
"By implementing this project, we are not only setting a new standard for sustainability in our National Parks but also leading the way in demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of reuse and refill systems," said Branden Rosenthal, Sustainability Manager at ExplorUS. "Our collaboration with the Rethink Disposable Program marks a significant step toward a greener future for our parks and sets an example for other National Parks to follow."
"ReThink Disposable is thrilled to partner with ExplorUS on this transformative project," said Grace Lee, National ReThink Disposable Director at Clean Water Fund. "Our mission is to stop trash before it starts and to make reuse the norm in the U.S., especially in our most treasured places – our National Parks. This initiative not only tackles the global plastic crisis, including microplastics and nanoplastics, but it will also deliver significant annual savings for concessionaires.”
###
About ExplorUS
ExplorUS is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices and environmental conservation across National Parks and public lands. Through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships, ExplorUS aims to enhance visitor experiences while preserving natural resources for future generations. ExplorUS is also committed to providing significant financial and in-kind support to ensure the success of this initiative. For more information, visit goExplorUS.com.
About Clean Water Fund’s ReThink Disposable Program
ReThink Disposable focuses on reducing single-use plastics and advocating for sustainable alternatives in the food service industry. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, Rethink Disposable promotes practical, reuse-focused solutions that benefit both the environment and society. For more information, visit ReThinkDisposable.org
