When it comes to Mardi Gras parading, there are always criticism associated with the throws culture. More specifically, environmentalist continue to opine on the hazards of using tons of plastic beads and the ongoing lack of effort to address the environmental problem for New Orleans. Of great concern is the fact that throwaway throws, at the time, were not biodegradable. Despite the lack of biodegradability, paraders are permitted to liter the streets with them and ultimately clog the sewers and enter the water way systems. To address this concern, groups have formed in New Orleans that are looking to recycle and to find a way to reuse plastic beads.
In the article, “Krewe Moving Away From All the Throwaway Throws” by UptownMessenger, many reasonable solutions to the issue were addressed. Ideas such as using glass beads or natural stones so that there is more value to the beads rather than just throwing them. Muses Krewe has always supported the idea of using throws, that you can use in everyday life, rather than just beads. Muses founder Staci Rosenberg states, “from soap to earbuds, socks to water bottles, luggage tags to pens and notebooks, bandanas to scarves, Muses has been a leader in throwing functional items every year, along with those that are cherished, and worn or displayed.” These are alternative options for throws which reduces the amount of plastic beads on the ground in New Orleans.
I personally like the idea of alternative throws because it helps decrease the amount of waste in the city and it gives parade participates other things to cherish or wear. For the overall solution of reducing the tons of waste left after Mardi Gras celebrations, I believe that Krewes and community organizations should continue combing their resources to create recycling programs that focus on cleaning the city. Krewes should also be more aware of the environmental issues and be more cautious of New Orleans drainage systems.
Jordan’s Mardi Gras Blogs 