What is Plastic Free Festival ?

What is Plactic Free Festival and in what purpose ( SDG ties involved) is it done ?

Plastics, whilst it is processing and natural decomposition, become microplastics that mix in seas and on land, posing a threat to human and environmental health by entering the food chain. There is an increase in the single-use plastics due to the rising population especially in holiday and tourism resorts during the summer. Plastics Free Festival aims to raise awareness among local businesses and producers who frequently use these materials to reduce plastic consumption, promote eco-friendly product alternatives, and increase consciousness about the environmental damage caused by plastic in the area.

Where and when was it done ?

It was done on the 17th of June 2023, in Gokceada.

What was included in the program ?

In our festival which was organized with great excitement, we provided the participants with the opportunity to take a step towards a plastic-free life through specially prepared "Plastic-Free Living Starter Kits", allowing them to get acquainted with environmentally friendly products.This experience was an important step in opening the doors to a sustainable lifestyle. Alongside the workshops, discussions, panel sessions led by influential figures present at our festival, we had an unforgettable experience.

One of the figures who stands out with her own vision, Beril Koparak Ergun, reminded us that every individual can make a significant impact, even with small steps. Damla Ozenc, whom we have known for her initiative to improve the fashion industry's positive impact on our world, provided an inspiring discussion experience with her impactful speech, offering insights and inspiration. Our guests who joined the composting workshops with Hasibe Akin and Nil Kiyisi learned about the transformative potential of composting, gaining inspiration to take practical steps towards a more sustainable future.

As the day approached to an end, our panel titled "Managing Sustainability and Impact Field in Gokceada" took place in two different sessions moderated by Utku Guven. Inspiring expert figures from various sectors came together to share their experiences, discussing how more effective strategies could be developed for Gokceada and sustainability. The interactive discussion involved our viewers, exploring ways to enhance sustainability strategies in Gokceada and beyond.

In conclusion, by bringing together over 20 experts and individuals who aspire to create a better world at the Plastic Free Festival, we joined their participation in our impact network. Alongside the outcomes before and after the festival, we took our first steps towards reducing plastic usage in Gokceada, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

The Plastic-Free Festival, organized under the leadership of The Purest Solutions Academy and Etki Cemberleri Foundation, brought the values of sustainability and the festive atmosphere together.

No to plastic, yes to a future with plastic-free oceans!

It's worth seeing the truth with your own eyes! What eventually happens to all the plastic we use without much thought throughout the day ?

We are aware of the critical importance Gokceada holds for the planet's marine life, and that's why we are responding to its call with the Plastic-Free Festival.

Research indicates that the coasts of Canakkale and Gokceada are valuable habitats for sea turtles. Let the call of Gokceada be heard, for the sake of sea turtles swimming in plastic-free oceans and the future of our planet!

We believe in the significance of Gokceada and we are taking action for a plastic-free future for the oceans. We have already begun microplastic measurements at Gokceada's Yildiz Koyu.

One of the irresponsibly discarded industrial waste components in the oceans is plastics. Additionally, heavy metals and solid/liquid waste released from maritime activities also play significant roles in polluting water sources. The 2021 Marmara Sea Marine Mucilage Disaster was a clear cry from nature, trying to get our attention. When will we realize ?