Anna Maria Island might be just 7.2 square miles with a permanent population of 900 people (plus thousands of tourists each year), but it’s packed with diverse and beautiful environments. The island’s stunning white-sand beaches, made up of over 90% quartz, lead to lush mangrove forests.
These mangroves are essential as they provide a safe space for more than 200 types of fish and many small creatures to grow before they head into the open sea.
The island’s heart is the 160-acre Robinson Preserve, managed by the Manatee County Audubon Society. This sanctuary protects a variety of native flora and fauna, including over 120 species of birds, making it a top spot for birdwatchers and anyone who loves the outdoors.
From eco-friendly vacation rentals to local businesses with a green conscience, living a lighter footprint here is not just possible, it’s encouraged.
How Anna Maria Island is Going Green
Here are some of the impactful initiatives the island has taken to promote sustainable living:
Eco-Friendly Transportation
The Anna Maria Island Trolley is a free service that loops around the island, helping reduce the need for cars by about 10% over the past decade. Also, bike rentals are popular on the island with more than 500 bikes rented daily during peak season.
Keeping the Beaches Beautiful
To fight beach erosion, which rising sea levels have worsened, the island has invested in beach renourishment projects.
Since 2012, more than 2 million cubic yards of sand have been added to Coquina Beach, thanks in part to a 5% tax on tourism.
Also, there are educational programs that reach over 10,000 school kids every year, teaching them how to be responsible on the beach, like throwing away trash properly and protecting nesting sea turtles.
Using Renewable Energy
More businesses on the island are going solar—up by 20% in the last five years. The city is helping residents with a $2,000 rebate if they install solar panels on their homes. This helps cut down on fossil fuel use and lowers energy bills.
Conserving Water
To save water, the island promotes using native, drought-resistant plants in landscaping, which has cut outdoor water use by 15% since 2010.
Many homes now have rain barrels that collect about 50 gallons of rainwater per major rainfall to use for watering plants. Low-flow toilets and showerheads are also becoming the norm, and of course, this has helped reduce water use even further.
Supporting Local Farmers
Every Saturday morning, the Anna Maria Island Farmers Market features over 30 vendors with fresh, locally sourced produce. Not only does this cut down on the carbon footprint from transporting food but also supports local farmers who use sustainable farming methods like crop rotation and integrated pest management.
These mangroves are essential as they provide a safe space for more than 200 types of fish and many small creatures to grow before they head into the open sea.
How You Can Play a Part in Anna Maria Island’s Sustainable Living Efforts
If you’re living on Anna Maria Island or just visiting, here are some practical ways you can contribute to the island’s sustainable living:
Don’t Add More Plastic
Single-use plastics are a big environmental issue, and there’s a simple way to help out: ditch them.
Bring along reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and containers for your groceries and meals. A lot of local restaurants even offer discounts if you bring your own to-go containers.
Cut Down on Food Waste
Make the most of your meals by planning ahead, buying only what you need, and getting creative with leftovers. Think about composting your food scraps too. It’s a great way to turn those kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil for your garden or potted plants.
Volunteer for a Cause
Give back to the island that nourishes your soul. Numerous organizations like the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch Program and Mote Marine Laboratory offer volunteer opportunities where you can contribute to the island’s environmental well-being.
Support Eco-Friendly Businesses
Make an effort to patronize businesses that are doing their part for the environment. Choose locally-owned restaurants that get their ingredients from nearby farms or shop at places that offer eco-friendly products.
Your support helps these businesses thrive and encourages others to follow their lead.
If you are looking to make Anna Maria Island your sustainable paradise, contact Lindsey Leech Strickland. She is a real estate expert who will guide you in buying or selling your properties on Anna Maria Island. Contact her today and make your island dreams a reality today!