April 25, 2017

Approach3_RobertM

Plantable Facts:

Plastic straws are a becoming a more prevalent issue as the world is consuming more and more. Massive amounts of straws end up in landfills, on the side of the road, and in the ocean, among many other locations. They are used for probably around 20 minutes on average only to “break down” over hundreds of years. And when they do break down, most of the tiny plastic debris will get swept into waterways, and ultimately the ocean, further putting the environment in danger.

Plantable Facts are cards made out of plantable seed paper, containing wild flower seeds. The paper itself is relatively easy and cost efficient to make, and is made of 100% post-consumer, biodegradable material. “The Last Plastic Straw” is an organization doing a lot of work to help persuade restaurants and food stores to either use recyclable straws or just stop giving away straws in general. Leaving stacks of these cards around campus in the dining halls would draw attention to the harmful effect of plastic straws, and have an environmentally friendly incentive by being able to plant wild flowers simply by planting the card after learning more about the cause by scanning the QR code. My inspiration behind this came from my friend who is very active in environmental causes, and has been speaking to me about this organization frequently lately.

Budget:

Recycled paper: $3

Blender: $25

Frame: $5

Printing: $3

Plant seeds: $5