The Village of Gurnee’s Environmental Sustainability Committee announced on Apr. 1 a series of activities and resources to mark Earth Month, encouraging residents to participate in local sustainability efforts.
Earth Month is an opportunity for the community to focus on environmental awareness and actions that help protect the planet. The committee has organized several events, including recycling drives, educational programs, and resources aimed at making it easier for residents to get involved.
Among the scheduled events is a free Shred Event on April 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at Gurnee Village Hall, open only to village residents. All shredded materials will be recycled. On April 18, a Styrofoam Recycling Event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Public Works Facility; only clean, dry polystyrene labeled #6 will be accepted. For those unable to attend these dates, additional drop-off options are available both locally and through Highland Park’s recycling center.
On May 9, Gurnee in partnership with the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) will hold a Spring Compost Giveaway from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., also at the Public Works Facility; this event is free for noncommercial use by Gurnee residents while supplies last.
Residents can also join ongoing programs such as Adopt-A-Trail or Adopt-A-Roadway—initiatives that invite individuals or groups to collect litter along designated trails or roadways throughout the year—or participate in Lake County’s Adopt-A-Highway program.
For businesses and organizations aiming for greater sustainability, the Green Gurnee Awards recognize efforts toward reducing environmental impact within their operations.
The committee offers practical tips as well: setting reminders for event dates using mobile devices; collecting unwanted shoes for donation bins at Village Hall; and designating spaces at home for items like Styrofoam until they can be recycled properly—all small steps that contribute toward waste reduction.
