GEORGETOWN, S.C. —  About 700 residents and visitors strolled through the bay-front park to purchase fresh produce, plants and flowers as well as learn about recycling and environmental stewardship.

East Bay Park was the center of Georgetown activity on Saturday morning as March of Dimes supporters launched their Walk for Babies, the Farmers Market offered its fresh plants and produce and the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce hosted Georgetown Goes Green.

During Georgetown Goes Green, presented by Bell Legal Group and the Georgetown County Chamber, residents and business owners learned from one another and shared their solutions for reducing, renewing and recycling items to protect our precious natural resources.

“This year, in addition to our exhibits, we also have the benefit of demonstrations in health and wellness techniques like acupuncture, Tai Chi and healthy cooking,” said April Jordan from the Georgetown Chamber.

This year’s Georgetown Goes Green was sponsored by Bell Legal Group, South Carolina Electric & Gas Company, Walmart, Georgetown County, City of Georgetown, Keep Georgetown Beautiful, Natural Awakenings, Shred Alert, Bath Fitter, First Citizens Bank, First Federal, Georgetown Hospital System and Anderson Brothers Bank. Thirty-two exhibitors demonstrated their eco-friendly and “green” products and services.

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To determine the current level of recycling support in Georgetown County, the Georgetown County Chamber conducted an online survey and received 108 responses indicating these trends:

n 55% of businesses surveyed have a recycling program in place

n 56% of businesses recycle at least one item

n 31% use a combination of drop-off and curbside pick-up for recycling

n 44% believe recycling should be mandatory

Top recycled materials are aluminum cans, cardboard, paper, newspaper and plastic.

“We are really pleased with this year’s event,” Jordan said. “We had the same number of sponsors and exhibitors as last year; some were new and some supported us last year as well.”