By Nicole DeMentri
Fresh off of becoming one of 48 towns in the state to become Sustainable Jersey certified in 2015, Robbinsville Township will host its first “Green Fair” at Pond Road Middle School gym on April 23.
Robbinsville has long been known as a farming community, which made it only natural to obtain the Sustainable Jersey seal. The township took years passing resolutions and documenting its every step toward sustainability. Robbinsville wound up with 170 points, enough for Sustainable Jersey’s bronze level.
“Although we are now a leader in business and industry, the Sustainable Jersey certification, combined with our upcoming Green Fair, proves we are still very environmentally conscious,” Mayor Dave Fried said.
The fair continues that effort, and will include presentations, 40 exhibitors showing off ways to improve your home, health and the environment, local and international environmental agencies, things for the kids, music, free food and beverages and even local politicians. The Green Fair will begin at noon and last until around 4 p.m.
“Purge-Protect-Prevent” is the official theme of the fair. Township officials said this theme encourages residents to “purge” pollution, “protect” what is clean, and “prevent” future pollution through education to help ensure a clean environment for years to come.
Children’s actives will include birdhouse building with Home Depot, “Storytime” sponsored by the Robbinsville Branch of the Mercer County Library and a “Green Passport” provided by the Robbinsville Township Green Team that kids can get stamped at 5-10 pre-selected vendors to receive a prize at the end. Live animals will also be at the school for some of the exhibits.
Also April 23, the old annual “Earth Day Fun Run” will now be a transformed to “2016 Step It…Up For Research 5K” headed by Thea’s Star of Hope, whom now will be a partner of the township. The nonprofit raises money and awareness for kids with brain tumors. The 5k run will take place at 2:30 p.m. after an opening ceremony outside of the middle school gym.
“People should come out because they have the chance to see presentations, demonstrations related to environment to health to your home and will have access to resources they may not have had before,” township recreation activities coordinator Kevin Holt said. “This really is a family affair, and people will walk away educated.”
