FAIRFIELD’S YOUTH LEAD THE WAY
IN FIGHT FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE PLANET
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“Sustainable Youth CT” Launches Sustainability Mission;
Working with Area Restaurants to Cut Use of Plastics
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Around the world, young people are emerging as passionate advocates for a more sustainable environment and planet -- and now their energy is being felt in Fairfield too.
The Sustainable Fairfield Task Force recently added a youth component, Sustainable Youth CT (SYCT), with student representatives from all Fairfield public middle and high schools, Fairfield Wheeler Science Magnet High School, Sacred Heart University and Pierrepont School (Westport). The group’s mission is to start projects within Fairfield and nearby towns to help protect our shared environment and make planet Earth more sustainable.
As a first step, SYCT is meeting with the managers of Fairfield area restaurants to launch “Plastic Straw Free CT,” which encourages reduction in restaurants’ use of plastic, including straws and utensils.
SYCT members are eager to promote action in the planet’s defense. Forrest Hendler, a Pierrepont School student, said: “I joined Sustainable Youth CT because I care about the environment and want to put a stop to climate change -- and wanted to help anyway I could.” Fairfield Woods Middle School student Asad Syed agreed: “I wanted to be a part of the movement to help save our planet. We’re showing others that, despite our age, youth are capable of making an impact in the fight against climate change.”
Getting Restaurant Owners Mobilized
To that end, in December, SYCT members introduced the Plastic Straw Free CT project to Billy and Maureen Auer, owner/operators of Centro Ristorante & Bar and the Firehouse Deli in downtown Fairfield. As a result of the meeting, the Auers will switch from plastic to biodegradable, corn-based straws, and plan to explore use of corn-based cups in place of plastic cups and lids as well as biodegradable utensils.
The Auers praised SYCT’s work: “We love the enthusiasm and dedication of the SYCT students, and we’re thrilled to support their mission. We hope many more local businesses will take the opportunity to work with the students and make their own commitment to a more sustainable Fairfield.”
The SYCT hopes to continue visiting with other restaurant and business owners in Fairfield and neighboring towns to discuss ways to cut use of plastic straws and plastics overall. The group also plans to join forces with other youth groups, both in Fairfield and beyond, to work together diligently in the fight against climate change.
Business owners who would like to know more about the Plastic Straw Free CT initiative or students who would like to learn more about SYCT are encouraged to contact Rabab Hussain Syed/617-955-9464 or Mary Hogue/203-216-2536.
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About the SFTF: The SFTF provides support for Town practices and projects that can help Fairfield manage its growth to safeguard the health of its environment, ensure the reliability and economical use of its natural resources, and preserve the quality of life of its residents – today and for the future. For more information, please visitvwww.fairfieldct.org/sftf