First Presbyterian earns 'Earth Care' honors

The First Presbyterian Church of Sandpoint has recently been recertified as an Earth Care congregation for “earth friendly” practices in worship, education, facilities and outreach, according to an announcement by Pastor Andy Kennaly.

One example of their environmental stewardship is that the church, during the last two years, has phased out the use of “throw away” plastic glasses. Such materials are not biodegradable; they clog landfills, waterways, and oceans indefinitely.

The church’s Earth Care team met recently, and discussed ways to further recognize Earth Day, which is today.

Members of the congregation plan to pick up trash on a one-mile stretch of Highway 95, south of Sandpoint on Saturday, April 23.

The worship service on Sunday, April 24, at 10:30 a.m. will focus on earth care topics and will conclude with a brief ceremony in the Peace Garden to dedicate one or more native plants. The public is welcome to attend.

The Earth Care Team Leader Marilyn Robertson shared several recycling tips with other members of the congregation:

n Shop carefully to focus on responsible products and packaging that reduces waste and makes future recycling easier.

n Use reusable bags.

n Buy in large containers when appropriate, and measure the product into handy sizes at home, thus cutting down on plastic use.

n Avoid Styrofoam products; for example, ask to take home your extra slice of pizza in foil.

n Cardboard egg cartons, made from recycled newsprint, are better than Styrofoam and are biodegradable.

n Buying paper products made from recycled paper completes the loop of recycling efforts.