Stepping Into the Future

Plant-based packaging company, Footprint, is using technology to eliminate single-use plastics

BY KYLEY WARREN

IIt’s no secret that plastics pose a significant threat to the planet and our general health. But even through recycling, it’s impossible to ensure that the materials are being disposed of completely—with recent estimates citing that only 9% of plastic placed in a bin is actually recycled.

And items from within the consumer packaged goods industry— everything from TV packaging to wine shippers used the like disposable cups and meat trays—reportedly account for material in some capacity—and they followed up on their almost 150 million tons of single-use plastics annually. findings by cold-calling manufacturers in the hopes of securing business.

The environmental effects of plastic are detrimental— which is actually what the sustainable technology firm, Today, the company—with headquarters based in Gilbert,

Footprint, is hoping to combat through their material Arizona—employs more than 1,200 people, and is currently science engineering. providing compostable materials to global brands like Tyson Foods, Molson Coors, Wegmans, Conagra and more. To

Footprint develops and manufactures foodware technologies date, Footprint is credited with preventing over 61 million that are recyclable, biodegradable and compostable. The pounds of plastics from entering the environment.company is on a mission to support some of the world’s leading industries by offering alternatives for brands to The brand has garnered particular recognition for their

“switch out of plastic to preserve the future.” thoughtfully made, high-quality product offerings. Footprint uses materials such as virgin newsprint, bamboo and

“Companies that really understand the flaws of recycling double-lined kraft, among other items, to produce their fully and want to evolve their brands for the better, they're biodegradable technologies. The products are also made with trying to get away from plastic and to use something that's molded fiber, which is engineered to outperform plastic.compostable,” says Susan Koehler, Chief Marketing Officer of Footprint. “We're the leader in terms of having plant- “If you look at the trends in 2020, and what they're based alternatives.” projecting for 2021, sustainability is absolutely one of the top five trends. And the reason for that is that more and

The concept for the company comes from the minds of more data supports the idea that recycling does not work,” former Intel engineers Troy Swope and Yoke Chung—who says Koehler. “People are demanding change—and Footprint founded the company in 2013. They began by trying to is championing it.”get a greater sense of the plastic problem within America.

Through searching store aisles, they discovered that For more information, visit www.footprintus.com.

GREENShe’s GREENHe’s

BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART

Mexican food is on the weekly rotation in our house. But when you have gluten and dairy sensitivities to consider, it gets to be quite challenging! As you might imagine, we're more than happy to try out new products so that we can still enjoy our favorite recipes. Take a read and see which ones were delicioso, or muy mal. ¡Hasta luego!

Arizona Pepper's Organic Harvest

Jalapeño Pepper Sauce

He said: I've always loved the Sonoranstyle Mexican food that was offered in Arizona. So, I was not surprised that this hot sauce was a home run. Delicious vinegar hit up front with just the right amount of heat. Our bottle clogged in the neck, but some light taps—okay some violent taps—and it cleared.

She said: Where have you been, oh delicious hot sauce?? I don't care for jalapeños, but if you throw in three more ingredients, I'm sold! Seriously, with the depth of flavor, perfect heat, and organic ingredients, my bottle of Tapatio is getting mighty lonely. Siete

Cassava Flour Tortillas

He said: These were amazing! I had to read the package ingredients a couple of times because I couldn't believe there was no wheat flour in there. They are chewy and light, just like a regular tortilla. The only downside is they need to be heated before eating to be the right texture.

She said: Consider me a cassava convert! Siete knows what it's doing and these gluten-free tortillas were very good. Just don't overheat them because then, well, you've got a Frisbee. Handy tip: save up for these because otherwise, at $9 for 8 tortillas, Taco Tuesday is only happening once a month! Santa Cruz Organic

Agua Fresca Pomegranate

He said: The term agua fresca is Spanish for, “I put too much water in the juice.” This had a very light pomegranate flavor, so you're mostly paying for water when you buy this. I have a better idea: buy a bottle of pomegranate juice, then add water to it. Boom—way more agua fresca.

She said: It was refreshing in the way that it was cold and wet—I'll give it that. But I didn't enjoy the sour, barely sweet, watered-down watermelon flavor (No, there's no watermelon in this. Weird, I know), like it couldn't decide if it was juice or tea. Maybe I need to try this on a beach in Cabo… yeah, that'll fix it.

Good & Gather

blue corn tortilla chips with flaxseed

He said: Don't ask me why, but I absolutely love blue corn chips for nachos. I didn’t get the opportunity to make these into nachos yet, but you know it’s coming. They had a great crunch, nice and salty, and the flax gave them an almost nutty after-taste. Man, I'm salivating just thinking about them.

She said: Looks like Target is bringing organic products to the table now (or maybe we don't shop at Target enough). I was happily surprised that these were so delicious and budget-friendly! I liked them better than a few of the big-name grocery store brands. They were light and crispy, held up well for salsa and nachos, and the flax seeds were unnoticeable (but good for your guts!).

GREENScenes

February Events Throughout Arizona

CENTRAL ARIZONA February 27, 28

Devour Phoenixs

Get ready for the return of the foodie event of the year! Although this annual event will not be hosted at the Desert Botanical Garden this year, food lovers still have the opportunity to enjoy dishes from popular Valley chefs and restaurants. This year’s Devour at Home offers a prix fixe menu of dishes to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Each order includes a meal for four people. All proceeds from the event goes to participating restaurants. Pre-orders open February 15 at 9 a.m. For more information, visit www.devourphoenix.com.

February 1-22

Sustainability Solutions Festival

Choose from a plethora of sustainability events happening throughout the month at ASU’s Tempe campus. From a conference with future leaders to a film festival, there will sure be a lot to learn from. The focus of the festival is to teach the public about how they can collectively and individually do their part to help protect the planet. To learn more about this event, visit https://sustainability.asu.edu/sustainabilitysolutions/programs/ solutionsfestival/.

February 6

Family Birdwalk

Take your family on a fun weekend nature walk in the city of Chandler. Held at one of the best spots in the Valley to birdwatch, Veterans Oasis Park, the birdwalk is a guaranteed fun time for the whole family. The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon. All nature walks depart every 15 minutes and are 45 minutes long. The event is free. For more information, visit www. desertriversaudubon.org/birdwalks.html.

February 6, 13, 20, 27

Old Town Farmers Market

Explore Downtown Scottsdale while shopping for fresh produce and specialty products. Supplied by local vendors, the farmers’ market offers a variety of organic and pesticidefree produce, meats, and more. The market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit www. arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets.com.

SOUTHERN ARIZONA February 19-21

The Arizona State Home Show

Held in the heart of Tucson, the Arizona State Home Show will showcase everything you need to improve, decorate, and design your home. Additionally, there are professional lessons and tips to help you improve your cooking and gardening skills. And if you are lucky, you could even win cash prizes and gifts cards. General admission is $8; free for those 16 and under. For more information, visit www.asihomeshows.com/az-state.

February 24

Yoga Energy

Re-energize your soul with this free-flowing yoga class at HealthOn Tucson. Following a simple set of poses, stretches, and balance positions, this class is for people of all skill levels. So grab your yoga mat and prepare to stretch your worries away. For more information, visit www.healthontucson.org.

NORTHERN ARIZONA February 3, 17

Community Drumming Circle

Head to Old Town Center for the Arts in Cottonwood and drum your worries away at the community drum circle. Led by Sandra Cosentino and Arvel Bird, the musical circle will include chanting, singing, and dancing. Feel free to bring your own percussion instrument, or just borrow one at the event. There is no cost to attend, but donations are encouraged. For more information, visit www.centerofuniversallight.com.

February 6

Run Sedona

Put on your running shoes and join the city of Sedona at this virtual race. Choose from a marathon, a half marathon, or a 10k/5k race. Complete the distance you choose at your own location. Prices vary according to the race distance. To register, visit www.sedonamarathon.com.

February 9, 25

Northern Arizona Solar Co-op

Join a free, informative group session and to learn all about solar energy. Held by the City of Sedona and the Solar United Neighbors non-profit, these Zoom group sessions were made to help homeowners and small businessowners learn about the benefits of using solar energy. Additionally, session members will have the option to purchase solar panels at a group rate. All sessions are free. To learn more and to register, visit https://coops.solarunitedneighbors.org/coops/northernarizona-solar-co-op/events/.

February 20

Broadway Classics

Enjoy a special matinee concert of Broadway classics presented by the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. The event features the talents of Broadway stars Andrea Burns and Nicholas Rodriguez. Bring the whole family to the NAU Ardrey Memorial Auditorium and celebrate the golden era of Broadway. The musical fun starts at 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.flagstaffsymphony.org/ event/broadway-classics/.

BUSINESS February 9-11

GreenBiz 21

More than 1,200 professionals will gather online at the premier annual event for sustainable business leaders. Learn of all the current tools and trends in the green business world from the experts who know best. More than 80 different learning sessions will be available. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other sustainable business owners. Prepare to be inspired! Request your invitation at https://www.greenbiz.com/events.

February 10

Cocktails and Connections at The Forum

Head to Chandler and market your small business while meeting like-minded individuals at a fun social gathering. This relaxed mixer is the perfect opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs who will provide the best tips and tricks to succeed in the business world. Drinks will be provided. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/cocktails-and-connectionsat-the-forum-tickets-110681401050?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

February 10

Learn About Land Trusts

Attend this virtual webinar, hosted by Local First, to learn about the importance of land trusts. Through it you will learn of all the work that goes into preserving the state lands. The webinar will be led by Liz Petterson, the executive director of the Arizona Land & Water Trust. By learning about this important topic, you will best know how to help preserve the lands that distinguish Arizona as one of the most beautiful states. The event is free. For more information, visit www.localfirstaz.com/events/webinar-allyou-want-to-know-about-land-trusts.

A Name to Watch

Dylan Capshaw named a finalist in TIME’s ‘Kid of the Year’ contest

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

SScottsdale local Dylan Capshaw—just 14 years old—was recently named one of the top 20 finalists for the first-ever TIME “Kid of the Year” contest. Capshaw is a wildlife activist and COVID-19 frontline worker advocate, helping animals in need through his nonprofit, Dylan Capshaw Wildlife Foundation, and printing 3D face shields to help protect the frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic, which he ships through his nonprofit, For the Frontline.

While he wasn’t the overall winner, he’s certainly made an impression worldwide. We had the chance to sit down with him. You are a wildlife activist and already have your own nonprofit! Can you tell us about it? I started the Dylan Capshaw Wildlife Foundation when I was 11 and in fifth grade to raise money for animal shelters during Hurricane Harvey. From there, I never stopped, and started rescuing animals myself, which led to my current status as an animal rescue and sanctuary. I have rescued a wide variety of animals ranging from a show goat; prairie dogs; and Jade, my wallaby! I also have a 24/7 phone line where I help answer questions or get calls for onsite rescues. Why were you passionate about helping animals? I have had compassion toward animals since my earliest memories. I was lucky to find my calling at such a young age, and I will continue this my whole life. Animals bring me joy and by protecting them, I feel I am doing my part in my community. You also formed a second nonprofit, For The Frontline. What have you been doing with that one? For The Frontline was started in the early days of the pandemic. Though helping animals is all I had done prior, I’ve always enjoyed helping people, as well. I immediately used the small 3D printer I had to print face masks that had the ability to make one surgical mask last seven times. I raised over $10,000 and was donated three industrial 3D printers, which allowed me to ship more than 3,000 PPE essential items to frontline workers across the country. For The Frontline sent free care packages, which included surgical masks donated by Okun Dentistry to the majority of 50 states, with free shipping as well. I also show our appreciation to frontline workers by catering lunch to a variety of fire stations and ICU wards in hospitals. How can people support your nonprofits? I run completely on donations. For The Frontline and The Dylan Capshaw Wildlife Foundation need donations to continue, and if anyone would like to donate, all of my websites are on www.dylancapshaw.com. My rescues all need food and vet care, and in order to be available to assist the frontline workers, For The Frontline needs available donations. What are your future goals? I never want to stop helping animals and people, and that is why a career in politics and/or environmental law is my goal.