"Making Mardi Gras Greener: Tackling Plastic Bead Waste in New Orleans"

Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans are contributing to a plastic pollution problem due to the massive amounts of nonbiodegradable beads and trinkets thrown during parades, which end up in the city's drainage system and waterways. Efforts to address this issue include recycling programs and a growing movement to introduce sustainable alternatives such as paper beads, recycled glass, and consumable items. Advocates hope that these initiatives will help reduce the environmental impact of the festivities.