Scarborough held its first-ever Sustainable Scarborough Day, a community gathering for residents to take part in a celebration of conservation and sustainability, on Oct. 1. With more than 200 attendees, the event was a success and a highlighted the town’s dedication to environmental awareness and sustainable living.

Sustainable Scarborough Day was a family-friendly affair, catering to individuals of all ages. There was something for everyone, with activities like arts and science activities for kids, electric vehicle test drives for adults, and e-bike rides provided by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. The event featured six workshops that provided attendees with in-depth knowledge and practical tips on sustainability topics.

The Sustainability Committee and Conservation Commission came up with the idea for a Sustainable Scarborough Day. The event drew community members from all over who came together to explore eco-conscious living. Jami Fitch, Scarborough’s Sustainability Coordinator, said she was delighted with the community’s response, she said it was a fantastic turnout for the first event and estimated that more than 200 people came.

“More than 25 businesses and groups set up informational displays on topics ranging from solar power and energy efficiency rebates to native plants and land conservation,” Fitch said. “Two local food trucks: Empanada Club and Terra Firma, served up delicious food. We received rave reviews for both options. Terra Firma was a late addition to the event, and their sustainably grown, organic farm-to-table offerings perfectly complemented the mission of Sustainable Scarborough Day.” She said there was a little something for everyone. “Fiddlehead Center brought their Tinker Bus filled with arts and science activities for kids, and the Greater Portland Council of Governments offered electric vehicle test drives for adults. Both adults and youth were able to take a spin on e-bikes brought by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine,” Fitch said.

Allison Carrier, Scarborough’s Marketing & Communications manager, was enthusiastic about the event. “Sustainable Scarborough Day was great!,” she said. “We had beautiful weather and a good turnout for our first year.”

Sustainable Scarborough Day offered a comprehensive exploration of sustainable living, featuring experts, local businesses, nonprofits, and enthusiasts who offered insights on various topics. Topics addressed included efficient homes, transportation, landscapes, recreation, waste management, land conservation, and climate action. The municipal campus transformed into a hub of activity, with the Scarborough Public Library, Wentworth School, and Town Hall hosting a range of activities.

The event also highlighted the financial benefits of sustainable living, with information on state and federal efficiency rebates and tax credits.

Numerous vendors participated, showcasing their commitment to sustainability, and offering valuable information. Efficiency Maine provided insights into energy efficiency rebates, federal tax credits, loans, and a database of installers. Local retailer GoGo Refill shared tips for low-waste and plastic-free living. Maine Farmland Trust promoted land conservation, and Project GRACE demonstrated simple DIY solutions for energy efficiency.

Sustainable Scarborough Day was organized collaboratively by two town committees, the Conservation Commission, and the Sustainability Committee, both dedicated to advancing environmental goals. The Scarborough Public Library and Project GRACE also put on the event.

The Scarborough Sustainability Committee hosted a prize drawing that included valuable prizes donated by local businesses. The grand prize, a heat pump water heater valued at $1,200, was donated by F.W. Webb. Other prizes included a rain barrel and a backyard composting kit, donated by Scarborough Public Works, and weatherization supplies, donated by Project GRACE.

The goal of Sustainable Scarborough Day was to inspire more sustainable choices in the community and encourage residents to embrace eco-conscious living every day. The event underscored the importance of collective action in preserving Scarborough’s natural resources for generations to come.