Vancouver, Wash. – The garbage a community leaves behind tells a story – often saying more about the people than the items they keep. Clark County residents are invited to learn more about the stories told by waste, including historical trash unearthed at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, at a free event this month.

Dr. Douglas Wilson, chief archaeologist with the National Park Service at Fort Vancouver, will lead a discussion about garbology – the study of a community or culture by analyzing its waste. Wilson will discuss the differences between modern trash and historical trash, tying in examples of items thrown away at the Fort Vancouver site. The discussion will challenge attendees to think about the story their waste would tell if analyzed 200 years from now.

The free event is 6 pm Friday, Feb. 28 at Vancouver Community Library Columbia Room, 901 C St. The event will kick off the annual WasteBusters challenge – a 20-day competition to reduce waste and promote sustainable living.

The event will include light refreshments, giveaways and a raffle to win a zero-waste starter kit, beeswax food wrap or a reusable bag.

WasteBusters registration open

Registration for the annual WasteBusters challenge is now open. Residents can join the challenge, which runs Feb. 28 through March 18, as individuals or in groups.

Residents sign up for the free competition online and pledge to reduce the amount of trash going to landfills by taking at least one of three waste-busting actions:

• Reduce paper waste in the kitchen by switching from single-use paper towels and napkins to cloth alternatives.
• Reduce plastic packaging waste by bringing a waste-free lunch to work or school three days or more a week.
• Reduce food waste by not allowing any purchased food to spoil or be thrown away.

Participants can earn points throughout the competition by attending events, completing weekly challenges and answering prompts. Top point-earners are eligible for prizes, including an indoor smart garden and an Instant Pot.

For more about the challenge and pledges, and to reserve a spot at the Feb. 28 kickoff event, visit the WasteBusters website.

The WasteBusters challenge is sponsored by Public Health’s Green Neighbors program.

CONTACT
Marissa Armstrong
communications specialist
Public Health
564.397.7307
marissa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov