Crafting Multi-Purpose Markets: Sustainability At Its Core
By MAdera E. Rogers-Henry
The MULTI-PURPOSED Market of the Lower 9th Ward
As you drive through the Lower 9th Ward, make sure to visit us on Saturady morning,September 14, 2024, from 9am to 1pm, at the corner of St. Claude Avenue and Tupelo Street, where Light City Church occupys the church. And the former Light Christian Academy is now, The Recycle Challenge new home. The gathed parking lot will host twenty vendors, with a new kind of market is to take shape. The aim is to have The Recycle Challenge, Ujima Collective and its non profit Literacy Project International host a once a month Lower 9th Ward Market.
Features of the Lower 9th Ward Market
Eco-Friendly Vendor Spaces: Parking spaces allow vendors to set up with tables, chairs, and a 10x10 parking space. Each vendor is encouraged to bring signage and one tent. Vendors were encouraged to use sustainable materials in their setups, promoting an eco-friendly atmosphere.
Waste Management and Recycling: At the center of the market is a recycling drop-off station, where visitors can dispose of their recyclables. providin continers for composting for organic waste will be available, ensuring nothing will go to waste. In informal demonstrations, attendees and vendors received guidelines on how to minimize waste, reinforcing the market's commitment to sustainability.
Workshops and Demonstrations: Throughout the day, the market will feature a crafting workshop, teaching attendees how to create fun products, to beautiful hats, to clothing from recycled cardboard. In one area, a local gardener demonstrates the basics of canning and preserving fruits and vegetables, sharing age-old techniques for modern sustainability.
Green Energy Solutions: Solar-powered charging stations, allow vendors and visitors to power their devices sustainably. Energy-efficient practices were encouraged, making the market a model of green energy usage.
5. Making Fresh Foods Available Along With Sustainable Products and Services: Making fresh produce available to neighbors begins a shift, from food desert to addressing the issues at hand. Refer to my blog on food deserts to better understand food insecurities in neighborhoods. We ask vendors to be mindful of best practices to display products and sell eco-friendly, organic, and locally sourced products. Please utilize sustainable packaging options when available, reducing the environmental footprint of each purchase.
6. Educational Initiatives: Informational booths provided valuable insights into sustainable living. Schools and local organizations collaborated on projects, educating the younger generation about the importance of environmental stewardship.
7.Community Support & Engagement: We ask vendors to display for neighbors shopping with us to feature who accepts EBT cards. We feature interactive stations invite visitors to learn about composting, recycling, and upcycling. Local artisans showcased their creations, and family-oriented activities highlighted the importance of sustainability, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
8. Healthy Living: Fresh, locally grown produce available. In addition to step classes, African dance, and yoga.
9. Vendor Support and Resources: The Ujima Collective offered monthly financial workshops and bookkeeping support, helping vendors manage their businesses effectively. Coaching and mentoring sessions provided additional guidance, ensuring that everyone has the tools they needed to succeed.
The Importance of the Sustainable Market
The Lower 9th Ward Multi-Purpose Market is more than just a place to buy and sell goods; it was a community hub dedicated to informaing, cartaking and introducing sustainability practices. By promoting eco-friendly practices, the market aimed to reduce waste, conserve resources, and educate the community about the importance of environmental stewardship.
Assisting the Community
The market's commitment to sustainability extended beyond its physical boundaries. By offering resources and support to vendors, the market helped local businesses thrive. Educational initiatives empowered residents with knowledge and skills to live more sustainably, fostering a culture of environmental consciousness.
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