NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The Krewe of Freret will stop throwing plastic beads during its parade in 2025.
According to a news release, the krewe is working to reduce the environmental impact of Mardi Gras in New Orleans by removing waste from its ecosystem.
Krewe leaders said they hope to remove more than 300,000 pounds of “potentially toxic” beads and 100,000 single-use plastic wrappers within the next 10 years.
They said 81% of this year’s throws included reusable or sustainable items like bead medallions that functioned as kitchen magnets.
Krewe leaders said reusable, consumable and handmade throws will take priority in 2025, with past items featuring fanny packs, branded hats, sunglasses, coloring books, collapsible dog bowls, tote bags, wooden doubloons and hand-decorated masks.
“While Mardi Gras will probably never be net-zero, we have a real, disturbing environmental waste problem in New Orleans. It’s time for change and I’m proud to deepen this critical partnership with my krewe to make a lasting impact,” said Krewe of Freret Sustainability Adviser Boyfriend.
Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.
