Green Sports Day: University of Florida IFAS Extension Sarasota County

UF IFAS Programs on CompostingThe University of Florida’s College of Health and Human Performance, in partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, is developing coursework for a Sports Management master-level program called Sports and the Environment. This program is one of the first of its kind to integrate major concepts in environmental sustainability – such as renewable energy, water conservation, recycling and social responsibility – into the sports industry. Through case studies, in-class discussions, and practical exercises, students gain an understanding of the components of a successful sustainability program and learn how they can collaborate to solve important environmental issues impacting the sports industry today.Sarasota County’s Nathan Benderson Park incorporates a food-waste collection program for rowing events. This project involves a team of composting volunteers assisting with the collection and separation of recycling and trash from the compost bins. The food waste collected is processed in mulch-lined composting bins, specially constructed in the park’s maintenance area. The unique aspect of the composting project is that the food waste is collected and processed onsite, reducing unnecessary environmental impacts. Focusing on the athletes, food carts, and general public areas, the Sarasota County Extension composting team diverted more than 2,500 pounds of food waste during four recent rowing events.NCAA Women’s National ChampionshipsRead more:https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/2018/05/31/composting-at-the-ncaa-womens-national-championships/World Rowing Masters RegattaUF IFAS just completed the World Rowing Master’s Regatta at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota. 400 + pounds of food waste was collected. Closed loop composting – food waste is collected and processed onsite at the rowing venue.