World Environment Day 2025
World Environment Day 2025
World Environment Day 2025: A Flourishing Tradition at Veterans Memorial Park
New Castle, DE- Have you heard about the incredible event held on June 5th at Veterans Memorial Park? The fourth annual World Environment Day celebration organized by the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) was an outstanding success. The event highlights the significant influence community members can have through local initiatives, contributing to the fight against plastic pollution.
The United Nations recognizes World Environment Day on the 5th of June every year to promote environmental programming. The theme for this year, "Beat Plastic Pollution," emphasizes how important it is to address plastic waste’s impact on the planet. The park was bustling with activity from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., reflecting our community’s increased interest in environmental causes.
Local Faces Leading Global Change: Meet the EHS Team
The DRBA's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department ensures the safe and long-term sustainability of our bridges, ferries, and airports, protecting the environment and our employees. This includes adhering to environmental laws, managing waste, ensuring air quality, and supporting campaigns such as World Environment Day.
Individuals interested in a meaningful career may find exceptional opportunities in Sustainability, Environmental Science, and Safety and Health Management fields. (Visit the DRBA's careers page to learn more about these exciting career opportunities!)
To better understand the inner workings of World Environment Day, we met with Danielle Miller, an EHS Associate who offered essential support; Albert Fralinger, the EHS Manager; and Silvana Dominioni, the EHS Director of the DRBA and the driving force behind the festivities.
Beating Plastic: Simple Changes, Big Impact
The "Beat Plastic Pollution" theme was central to the event. Albert Fralinger explained, "Attendees received a reusable bag, a direct nod to the 'no plastic' message." Many vendors offered non-plastic alternatives. "The hope was for people to realize how easy it is to make small changes to reduce plastic, understanding that little bits from many people add up," he concluded.
Silvana Dominioni stressed, "People don't realize where plastic is; it's everywhere... This event shows people what they can do to explore alternatives or extend the life of their plastic products," suggesting simple swaps like glass containers, reusable mugs, and even shampoo bars that eliminate plastic bottles.
Community Response: Engage, Learn, Grow
The community's enthusiasm was overwhelming. The tremendous teamwork this year was applauded by Dominioni, who added, "Everybody just came together much more smoothly." According to Fralinger, there were about 1800 visitors, comparable to last year. He described the event's layout as a "mechanical success," stating, " The big thing was the diverse mix of exhibitors, and moving them out to the field where visitors had more space to approach them and talk."
Many exhibitors noted that the event truly engaged the children and the general public. It was inspiring to see younger kids attending with their families, fostering an early interest in environmental issues.
Danielle Miller efficiently managed vendors and planning, including the successful move of booths outdoors which, boosted interaction. Post-event surveys distributed to vendors by Miller were overwhelmingly positive, praising DRBA employees, exhibit variety, and the event’s organization.
From Humble Beginnings to a Public Spectacle
The DRBA's World Environment Day has seen ambitious growth. Dominioni recalled its modest start in 2016: "The first one was just me sitting outside collecting TVs and computers." Initially, it had five vendors and was for DRBA employees only.
"Next year will be the 10th year of the event, and the 5th for the public," said Fralinger. The public expansion followed the DRBA's EPA WasteWise Partner of the Year award in 2022. Dominioni explained, "This was the perfect way to showcase the award... and that's when it really began as a public event.”
The event's motivation has also evolved. Dominioni initially wanted to promote the EHS department and appreciate DRBA employees. Now, as Fralinger explained, "The mission has evolved to gain positive brand recognition for the DRBA... to showcase our sincere commitment to environmental initiatives."
Looking Ahead
The DRBA is committed to continuing this successful annual event. Dominioni is planning ways to "showcase the milestones for next year, since it is the 10th anniversary." Fralinger is considering new educational initiatives, and exhibitors are already requesting spots for future events.
This event strongly aligns with the DRBA's broader EHS goals. As Dominioni stated, "Our primary objective is to protect the traveling public. That's our community and our employees." The DRBA demonstrates deep commitment by going beyond mere compliance. "It's more than that, because people are important. And you know, our tagline is 'Connections that move you,' and that's what World Environment Day is about."