The Sustainability Fair had Marbleheaders of all ages going green.
Outside of the school, there were test drives of all sorts of electric vehicles, such as those from Lucid, Rivian, Ford’s new electric Mustang, and more.
In addition to the electric vehicle demonstrations, there was also a “bike rodeo,” hosted by the Massachusetts Department of Transit (MassDOT) Safe Routes to School program, which went over safety for those kindergarten-aged to grade five when it comes to riding bicycles, and even presented an opportunity to ride on a skills course which was set up.
Demonstrations of self-propelled landscaping equipment from EGO such as leafblowers and lawnmowers were for viewing, too.
As attendees made their way to the cafeteria, they were greeted with posters for its poster contest, as well as the winning posters, all displaying a variety of sustainable themes.
In the cafeteria, lots of different groups had information and objects on display, The Whalemobile, Sassafras Garden Design, and Salem State Biological Society among them.
In the gymnasium was Animal Control Officer Dan Proulx, Highland Electric School Bus, Farmer’s Direct Co-Op, Marblehead Water and Sewer, plus many more.
“I’m so pleased with the results,” said Sustainable Marblehead Executive Director Elaine Leahy of the fair.
Leahy said that there were several hundred members of the community in attendance, with over 70 non-profit vendors, several car dealerships, and community departments.
“It just was such a great community event, bringing so many different people together,” Leahy said. “We’re all working toward the same thing, which is… protecting and preserving our planet for future generations.”
Leahy said that this fair was the first its been held in five years, and hoped that those who were able to attend left with a sense of hope and inspiration.
“There’s just so many ways you can make a difference—you don’t have to only drive an [electric vehicle], or only have a heat pump,” she said. “Actions can be big or small, and they could still make such a difference.”
Leahy said that her favorite part of the fair was seeing so many different departments from around town and nonprofits and vendors all get together.
“It just sparked so many new conversations and partnerships that will continue to create ripples, even after the fair is over,” she said.
Upcoming, Leahy is excited about the Green Homes Tour next spring, where a dozen or so homes are showcased due to their clean energy efforts.
Leahy said that the tour is mix of newer and older homes around town.