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Art exhibit draws attention to plastic pollution issue

Posted at 5:42 AM, Jul 11, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-23 10:06:41-04
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Da464w63BJU?rel=0&showinfo=0]

In recent weeks, many franchises like Starbucks have taken steps to be more environmentally friendly. 

It’s a goal some businesses here in town have been working toward for years. The call to action is now highlighted by an exhibit at the Art Center of Corpus Christi. 

Shelia Rogers created the "Oceans of Plastic" exhibit solely with trash she found on area beaches. Plastic bottles, lighters, straws and bottle caps are a harsh reminder of the harmful toll littering takes on the environment. 

Additionally, Rogers works closely with the Surfrider Foundation to  educate and motivate the public to make a change. 

David Nuss, a member of the foundation, is passionate about its Ocean Friendly Restaurants program. 

"It just kind of keeps the conversation going between the restaurant and customer for them to know, ‘I don’t always have to take the plastic product just because it’s offered,’" Nuss said. 

A handful of local restaurants are behind the movement, including Shoreline Sandwich Company. The popular lunch spot is styrofoam-free and uses paper boxes and bags as an alternative to plastic. 

Managers said they aim to make it simple for customers to reduce pollution. 

"We have separate trash, recycling, and glassware bins so that when customers are emptying out their plates, they can throw their trash in the trash can, their paper in the paper bin, and their glass in the glass recycling bin," Rachel Fell said. 

The public is invited to meet Shelia Rogers and learn more about the project, the Surfrider Foundation, and the Ocean Friendly Restaurants program at a come-and-go reception hosted by the Art Center of Corpus Christi. The reception is Wednesday, July 11th from 5-7 p.m. Admission to the Art Center of Corpus Christi is always free.