I’m still a little blown away by what went down yesterday at the 2008 Charleston Green Fair. I mean, 1st Annual? You would have thought it was the 10th annual. In short, it was an amazing event, and every volunteer, exhibitor, vendor, and Charleston resident should be proud.

I had a great time talking to people at our booth. The interactive recycling game was a big hit again, and I kept getting a lot of the same questions:

• Can I recycle waxy paper milk cartons? No.
• What can’t they recycle #1 and #2 plastics without the necks? Because of the buyer.
• When will we be able to recycle #4 and #5 plastics? I don’t know, but they are working on it.

It was great chatting it up with attendees and exhibitors alike, and it really felt like people were getting it. This kind of learning and awareness goes a long way, and I certainly feel that after this event, Charleston is a little greener. Check out more thoughts and photos after the jump.

Things I liked:

• The vibe was very good. Easy going, lots of Frisbee, and not much in-your-face activism. The event seemed to be more focused on education and celebration.
• I liked that Mayor Joe showed up on foot!
• I liked that my both contents were small enough that I could carry them while riding my skateboard down King Street.
• Everyone that showed up – you made this happen!

Things I didn’t like:

• The lack of vegetarian food at the food court. After not driving, not eating meat is the #2 thing you can do to reduce your impact on the environment. They can do better next year.
• I’d like to see the nonprofits be on the main paths with THE REST OF THE ENTIRE FESTIVAL. I mean, I know we paid less for our booths tables, but we all kept hearing the same thing, “Wow, we couldn’t find you.”

Coolest green business:

• Charleston Green Taxi – Great product, great branding, and will be available at the airport soon. Not only do they provide a great service, but their heavily branded cars promote general eco-awareness as they drive around town.

“Um, really?” green business:

• Green Canitizer – Not only is this a service 99% of people don’t need in the first place, but it’s something you can do at home with your kids in like 10 minutes. Yes they use biodegradable soap, but so do I – and I don’t have to drive around in a truck to use it. Fail!

That’s all for now, enjoy the pics: