Junior Ambassadors Explore Sustainability in Action

This week, the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation’s Junior Ambassadors participated in their environmental and sustainability tour, gaining firsthand knowledge of how our community protects natural resources and promotes environmental stewardship.

Waste & Recycling Adventure Center & Landfill Tour

SWA Business Development Manager, Susan Kilby-Aaron, gives a real-time explanation of the MRF’s operations

The day began at the Waste & Recycling Adventure Center, a 7,000-square-foot educational facility located within the Baldwin County Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Summerdale. Junior Ambassadors explored 20 interactive stations designed to make recycling and waste management both fun and educational.

From learning the basics of recycling to discovering how landfill gas is captured and converted into renewable natural gas, students experienced the full journey of waste transformation. A highlight was the second-level overlook, where they observed advanced sorting equipment in action and saw how recyclable materials are processed daily.

To deepen their understanding, the group also took a riding tour of the Magnolia Landfill located next to the recycling center. This eye-opening experience showed where our trash goes when it isn’t recycled and reinforced the importance of reducing waste and protecting our environment.

Graham Creek Nature Preserve

Following their recycling adventure, Junior Ambassadors traveled to the City of Foley’s Graham Creek Nature Preserve, where they experienced the beauty and biodiversity of South Baldwin County. A wagon tour through the Pitcher Plant Bog gave students the chance to learn about blooming native plants, endangered wildlife, monarch habitats, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Sustainability and Natural Resources Director Leslie Gahagan and her staff shared the preserve’s mission and future plans for expanding recreational opportunities while protecting valuable habitats. They also highlighted the variety of events the preserve hosts, welcoming both locals and visitors from around the globe to enjoy this incredible piece of preserved land.

From exploring cutting-edge recycling technology and witnessing the realities of landfill management, to connecting with nature in one of Foley’s most treasured green spaces, this tour gave our Junior Ambassadors a deeper appreciation of sustainability efforts right here in Baldwin County. These experiences are an important part of the Junior Ambassador program’s mission to develop leadership, broaden perspectives, and inspire community stewardship among local students.

A special thank you to our sponsors and local businesses whose support makes opportunities like this possible for our Junior Ambassadors.