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Jacksonville Employees Celebrate Earth Day with Cleanup

Volunteers collecting trash during the JAXPORT Earth Day cleanup

News Summary

On April 18, employees from JAXPORT participated in an Earth Day cleanup along Heckscher Drive, collecting a record 1,520 pounds of trash. This initiative, part of the Adopt-A-Highway program, showcases the team’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community involvement. Since 2022, they have removed over 4,000 pounds of garbage, helping to protect local wildlife and waterways while promoting cleaner neighborhoods.

Jacksonville Goes Green: JAXPORT Employees Lead Earth Day Cleanup

In a spirited celebration of Mother Earth, employees from JAXPORT rolled up their sleeves and hit the streets on Friday, April 18, for a blockbuster Earth Day cleanup. The team targeted a two-mile stretch of Heckscher Drive, located between the bustling JAXPORT Cruise Terminal and the Blount Island Marine Terminal in North Jacksonville.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Since adopting this section of road in 2022 through the Florida Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway program, JAXPORT employees have turned this cleanup into an annual Earth Day tradition. Their commitment to keeping the area clean is commendable, and this year they smashed records, collecting a jaw-dropping total of 1,520 pounds of trash! That is quite an achievement for a dedicated team determined to make a difference.

What Was Discovered?

When it comes to the treasures they unearthed, it was anything but ordinary. The cleanup crew hauled away a motley assortment of trash, including a car bumper, a boat fender, a hot water tank, a car seat, eight tires, and three engines. It seems that the items found could tell quite a story! Imagine the narrative behind a hot water tank lying roadside – fascinating, isn’t it?

More than Just a Cleanup

This yearly effort isn’t merely about picking up litter; it plays a vital role in enhancing the local community’s environment. Since adopting the roadway, JAXPORT employees have successfully removed over 4,000 pounds of garbage. Such efforts contribute to beautifying the local area while ensuring that discarded waste doesn’t find its way into fragile local waterways. Isn’t it great to know someone is looking out for our precious waters?

JAXPORT’s Environmental Commitment

JAXPORT’s initiatives extend beyond just the road cleanup. The organization is deeply committed to environmental protection and stewardship. Their focus includes reducing engine emissions from port equipment and actively supporting initiatives aimed at preserving the natural surroundings. One innovative approach they are emphasizing is promoting the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a clean marine fuel.

Protecting Local Wildlife

In addition to keeping the streets clean, JAXPORT is playing its part in protecting the enchanting manatees found in Northeast Florida waterways. The focus on wildlife preservation showcases the organization’s broader dedication to ensuring that both nature and communities thrive harmoniously. Isn’t it reassuring to know that businesses are making decisions that positively impact local wildlife?

Learn More About JAXPORT

As Earth Day 2023 drew to a close, residents of Jacksonville can applaud JAXPORT employees for their hard work and dedication to keeping the community clean and green. These trailblazers illustrate that a little effort can lead to significant changes in our surroundings. For those interested in learning more about JAXPORT’s environmental initiatives and ongoing efforts, more information can be found online at JAXPORT.com.

As Jacksonville continues to grow, let’s hope the spirit of teamwork and community involvement spreads to more residents and businesses. After all, when we come together for the planet, everyone wins!