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Tag: Environment

SCDNR and SC7 Complete First Week of 2025 Expedition

30-day journey showcasing South Carolina’s natural wonders

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GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. — Braving scorching summer temperatures that soared above 90 degrees each day, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Director Dr. Tom Mullikin and the SC7 team have completed the first week of the 2025 SC7 Expedition, having traversed more than 70 miles of the Palmetto Trail with over 500 participants joining from across the state.

Now in its sixth year, the SC7 (South Carolina Seven) Expedition is a 30-day journey showcasing South Carolina’s natural wonders—stretching from the Upstate mountains to the coastal Lowcountry. The initiative is led by SCDNR Director Tom Mullikin, Michelle McCollum, and members of the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, in partnership with Global Eco Adventures—all committed to highlighting and protecting the state’s rich natural and cultural resources.

The 2025 journey began with a ceremonial send-off attended by South Carolina Senate President Thomas Alexander and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, both of whom have completed the trail in previous years.

“Thank you to SCDNR Director Tom Mullikin for leading the SC7 expedition to shine a light on all our state has to offer residents and visitors. Eco-tourism is a critical part of our state’s economy, and I encourage all South Carolinians to get outside and enjoy it — from the mountains and lakes, to our rivers and beaches,” said Lieutenant Governor Evette.

According to Director Mullikin, one of the most moving moments of the first week occurred on July 4, when the SC7 team summited Table Rock Mountain in honor of America’s veterans. Along the way, participants learned about the recovery of fire-damaged forest areas, with insights from SCDNR Botanist Keith Bradley, who highlighted native species regeneration and the importance of habitat restoration.

SCDNR’s elite Law Enforcement officers were embedded throughout the journey, assisting hikers in challenging conditions, including on the strenuous ascent to Sassafras Mountain, the state’s highest point. Officers provided guidance and support to visitors facing heat-related stress, ensuring safety while also showcasing SCDNR’s on-the-ground role in conservation stewardship.

“Our game wardens are not only law enforcement officers—they are educators, stewards, and protectors of public lands,” said Director Mullikin. “Their presence this week reinforced the mission of SCDNR in the field.”

The SC7 Expedition has attracted widespread attention, with embedded media coverage reaching more than 2 million homes during its first week alone. Local and national outlets have spotlighted South Carolina’s natural beauty and the collaborative conservation efforts of SCDNR and its partners.

South Carolina spans nearly 20 million acres, with more than 3.4 million acres already protected under some form of conservation. With a goal to conserve 10 million acres, SC7 plays a critical role in advancing public awareness of the cultural, ecological, and historical significance of South Carolina’s landscapes. SCDNR supports this mission by bringing expertise, on-the-ground engagement, and educational resources to the expedition—helping to inspire stewardship across all generations.

As mandated by the state constitution, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources serves as the principal advocate for and steward of South Carolina’s natural resources. Partnering with SC7 aligns with SCDNR’s mission to be a trusted and respected leader in natural resource protection and management, balancing wise decision-making for the benefit of both ecosystems and communities.

As SC7 enters week two, the team continues eastward with stops planned in the Midlands before heading toward the Lowcountry. Participants of all ages are encouraged to join hikes, attend educational forums, and support South Carolina’s environmental legacy.

For more information on SC7 events and how to participate, visit: www.southcarolina7.com

Aim Higher SC: Lieutenant Governor Evette’s March 2025 Email Update
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Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette brings her supporters, friends, and the people of South Carolina her 1st Quarter 2025 e-mail update.

In this edition, we share a few highlights of how Evette is supporting President Trump’s agenda in SC, featured news stories, how Team SC is working to fight SC wildfires + SC business features (large & small), non-profits who are making a difference, and a few personal updates.

Below is March 2025’s opening message from Lt. Gov. Evette.

A Message from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

If you’re like me, you can’t believe that it’s already March. 2025 is flying by, and a BIG part of that is how President Trump is taking action in the Oval Office at lightning speed. His dedication to keeping the promises he made and his drive to Make America Great Again is awe inspiring.

What a time to be an American — in the Golden Age!

I am committed to being an ally for our President in South Carolina. I will never stop pushing to keep the Palmetto State winning, today and well into the future!

Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette

Read the Full March 2025 Email Update
Aim Higher SC: Lieutenant Governor Evette’s December 2024 Email Update

Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette brings her supporters, friends, and the people of South Carolina her 4th Quarter e-mail update. As our state continues to recover following Hurricane Helene and we look forward to having President Trump back in the White House, here are a few highlights on election night, honors / recognition, podcasts, and #TeamSC working together towards recovery +  S.C. business features (large & small), S.C. non-profits who are making a difference, and a few personal updates.

Below is December 2024’s opening message from Lt. Gov. Evette.

A Message from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

As we celebrate this holiday season and approach the end of 2024, our state and nation have so much to be thankful for. As Lt. Governor, I was incredibly proud of how Team SC and all South Carolinians came together in the aftermath of hurricane Helene — helping one another and our neighbors to the north in Western North Carolina.

I am also grateful that Americans across the nation came out and voted in November for a return to common sense and for strong family values. Thank you to all of you for helping to get our nation back on the right track starting with the election of President Trump.

I wish all of you, your families, and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas and many blessings in the New Year!

Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette

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Aim Higher SC: Lieutenant Governor Evette’s September 2024 Email Update

Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette brings her supporters, friends, and the people of South Carolina her 3rd Quarter e-mail update. As we head towards the presidential election, it’s an incredibly busy time! Here are just a few highlights on the RNC, supporting President Trump, honors / recognition, fighting for S.C. kids and families, S.C. business features (large & small), S.C. non-profits who are making a difference, and a few personal updates.

Below is September 2024’s opening message from Lt. Gov. Evette.

A Message from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

Every day, I feel blessed beyond measure to serve the people and the businesses of South Carolina. No matter where my travels take me, I’m alway quick to brag on the many South Carolinians who work hard, do good, and aim higher.

This truly is the best place to live, work, and raise a family — for which we owe a great deal to our men and women in uniform. I ask you to join me in thanking our law enforcement officers and military members today and at every opportunity.

As we get closer to the general election on Nov. 5th, I ask you to remain strong in your commitment to the conservative values that keep S.C. winning! Remember to vote Republican up and down the ballot. Let’s bring this thing home. Thank you for all you do!

Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette

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Read the full Sept. 2024 Email Update
Aim Higher SC: Lieutenant Governor Evette’s June 2024 Email Update

Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette brings her supporters, friends, and the people of South Carolina her 2nd Quarter e-mail update. April, May and June 2024 were very busy months — so here are just a few highlights on standing with President Trump, legislative wins, S.C. business features (large & small), S.C. non-profits who are making a difference, and a few personal updates.

Below is June 2024’s opening message from Lt. Gov. Evette.

A Message from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

Serving as Lt. Governor of South Carolina is a tremendous honor. One of the best parts of my role is that I get to travel across our state and hear from South Carolinians — business leaders, workers, educators, youth, and more — on the things that matter to them.

This is a pivotal time in our state and our nation, so I am thankful to all of you for continuing  to work for a better and brighter future. You are making a difference! From the bottom of my heart — thank you.

Kindest Regards,

Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette

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Read the full June 2024 Email Update
Lt. Governor Evette takes part in Myrtle Beach cleanup

Originally posted by WPDE ABC 15 News, Brianna Allison, May 13th 2024

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — South Carolina Lt. Governor Pamela Evette joined Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful and other volunteers at Hurl Rocks Park on Monday morning for a beach cleanup.

She stressed that everyone should help out with keeping our beaches clean.

“It’s as simple as when you go to walk the dog, when you go to walk your baby, when you want to go on a stroll with the family take a bag. Don’t step over trash. Pick it up. We have trash containers everywhere. Really working hard on recycling,” said Lt. Governor Evette.

Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful’s next cleanup event is June 10 at Pavilion Park. Learn more about the event here.

Aim Higher SC: Lt. Gov. Evette’s April 2024 Email Update

Beginning in April 2024, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette was excited to release her first quarterly email update as a way to connect more directly with people across South Carolina.

In addition to providing an update on issues impacting people throughout South Carolina, Lt. Gov. Evette highlighted work being done by members of our business community, impactful nonprofit organizations, and how recently passed legislation is working for our people. Together, we can make the future of S.C. brighter. Let’s keep working hard, doing good, and aiming higher!

Below is April 2024’s opening message from Lt. Gov. Evette.

A Message from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

First and foremost, I want you to know how grateful I am to serve you as South Carolina’s first female Republican Lieutenant Governor. Working alongside Governor McMaster for the good of our state these past 5+ years has been the greatest honor of my life, and today I’m excited to connect more directly with you through this first quarterly email update. 

I am thankful for your support, your friendship, and for the trust you’ve put in me to be the Palmetto State’s second in command. If there is ever anything I can do for you, or issues you are passionate about, I hope you will reach out. 

Kindest Regards,

Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette

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Evette hosts annual lieutenant governor’s conference in Myrtle Beach

Originally posted by WBTW News 13, April 24, 2024 by Jackie LiBrizzi

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) – Wednesday marked Day 1 of a three-day conference for the National Lieutenant Governors Association’s spring meeting in Myrtle Beach. 

This year’s conference was hosted by South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette at the Marriott Myrtle Beach at Grande Dunes. 

The annual meeting was first organized by the nonprofit in 1962 with a mission to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of the office and government. National leaders met Wednesday to share ideas and solutions. 

Currently, South Carolina isn’t just the fastest growing state in the nation — it’s also a top-eight leader in ports, tourism and military. 

14 U.S. lieutenant governors were in attendance along with the lieutenant governor for Guam and the Secretary of State for Puerto Rico.

During the meeting, the chief financial officer for the state’s ports authority, Phil Padgett, said Charleston’s port is one of the busiest and most important ports in North America. He said it’s because of supply chain and trade.

Padgett said more than $3 billion has gone into capital investment in the last 15 years. He said that includes terminal capacity, transportation improvements, and import and exporting infrastructure.

He also discussed strategic priorities.

“A technical term us employees use, we liked to call it ‘sticky cargo,’ and what that means is the customer has to call our port, so we really want to create an environment where they have to come,” Padgett said. “We deliver critical infrastructure, and I’m sure you’ve seen this across the country, cranes, additional war space, maybe in passing.”

Many discussions were about “an eye to the future.” Padgett said growth rates are up and that means revenues are too.

Another state official who spoke during Wednesday’s meeting was Duane Parrish, South Carolina’s Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism.

Parrish said currently, South Carolina is the seventh-most visited state in the country. He said they started a grant program called “Undiscovered South Carolina” and since then, there’s been more than 6 million trips.

Parrish talked about the top trends he’s seen in our state parks.

“Our state parks, we have 47, we will add six more to what is already there. And maybe another five in another 12-14 months. State Park revenue is up 6.3% from the previous year,” he said. “Our state park numbers have doubled since pre-COVID, and that’s with the same number of parks. People have come in our recreation, boating, and you mark it back to COVID, it’s hard to find and very expensive.”

Parrish said he’s also noticed a rise in sports tourism. He said it’s now making up 10% of the global tourism industry. 

Maryland Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller was also on a peer panel during Wednesday’s meeting. Miller said around 3 a.m. on March 26, she woke up to a phone call. 

She said a cargo ship the size of the Eiffel Tower collided into their Francis Scott Key Bridge and killed six transportation workers.

Miller said there’s also been a great economic consequence from the collapse, closing the ninth-busiest port in our nation.

She said the annual economic activity of the port of Baltimore is about $70 billion, supporting more than 900 businesses, 8,000 direct jobs, and $140,000 jobs indirect and services. 

Miller said she and her governor meet with officials three times a week for updates and to strategize. She said so far, she’s attended three wakes and funerals. 

“I ask that you please continue to keep the victim’s families, our first responders, and the men and women who are working each and every single day courageously at our site to remove the wreckage.”

Miller said they’ll continue to grieve together, stand together and pray together.

Lt. Governor Evette, DHEC, ISRI Launch ‘Be Battery Smart’ Campaign for South Carolina

New public information effort focuses on importance of recycling household batteries and safety hazards posed by certain batteries 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov.  7, 2023 — SC DHEC

COLUMBIA, S.C. —  A public education campaign designed to increase the public’s understanding of the health and environmental benefits of safely recycling household batteries is launching today in South Carolina, announced the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette joined Myra Reece, director of DHEC Environmental Affairs, and Cheryl Coleman, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Advocacy for ISRI, the Voice of the Recycled Materials Industry™, at a news conference today to promote “Take Charge: Be Battery Smart.” This educational campaign focuses on the importance of properly using and recycling household batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, which are a type of rechargeable battery. The campaign is created by DHEC’s Office of Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling in conjunction with ISRI, with support from several partner organizations. 

“This is an important initiative that affects every South Carolina family,” said Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette. “This campaign will help educate families about the hidden dangers of batteries and the economic benefits of recycling. By responsibly managing batteries, we not only protect our loved ones but also contribute to preserving the critical minerals that make up batteries.” 

Batteries are required for many household essentials, such as remote controls, kids’ toys, clocks and watches, cell phones, laptops and more. Batteries come in various chemistries, types, and sizes to fit different uses. Household batteries are safe to use when properly following the manufacturer’s instructions; however, damaged or improperly stored, used or disposed of batteries – particularly rechargeable lithium-ion batteries – can explode or catch fire.  

“The ‘Take Charge: Be Battery Smart’ campaign addresses the lack of consumer awareness about the proper use and management of batteries, which have become such a commonplace item in our day-to-day lives,” said Myra Reece, DHEC’s Director of Environmental Affairs. “We want South Carolinians to understand that household batteries need to be properly recycled in order to limit the potential harm they can cause to people and the environment.” 

Lithium-ion batteries, which are a popular type of rechargeable battery, are easy to puncture and can cause fires in garbage trucks and recycling centers and landfills. This can injure those essential workers, including the firefighters who then need to respond. A 2021 study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed that, between 2013 and 2020, at least 245 fires at 64 solid waste facilities were caused or likely caused by lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries. 

“The ‘Take Charge: Be Battery Smart’ campaign is a bold first step toward educating the public on the dangers of improperly storing and disposing of batteries — and raising awareness on this growing problem,” said ISRI President Robin Wiener. “Educating the public on this critical issue is important for the safety of our member companies and employees — and also for first responders and the communities around us. We are proud to partner with the South Carolina DHEC to launch this important campaign that will ultimately keep South Carolinians out of harm’s way.” 

Most South Carolina residents have opportunities to recycle batteries at no cost and are encouraged to learn more about battery recycling in their communities. 

The Call2Recycle program offers about 16,000 drop-off sites nationwide for household battery recycling, including Best Buy, Lowe’s and The Home Depot. The retailer Batteries Plus also offers recycling options. Additionally, some South Carolina counties have household hazardous material collection programs or collection events that accept certain types of batteries, both single-use and rechargeable.

“Properly recycling batteries keeps millions of pounds of potentially harmful materials in use and out of the landfill and reclaims critical metals such as cobalt and lithium needed for the manufacturing of new products,” said Reece. “Recycling — and recycling batteries in particular — is one of the ways to a sustainable economy and healthy environment.” 

Another critical focus of Be Battery Smart is educating the public about the choking hazards posed by small, shiny button batteries. Children are especially at risk for serious injury or even death if they swallow a button battery or put one inside their ear or nose. DHEC and ISRI encourage parents, guardians and caregivers to be informed of how dangerous the small round coin or button batteries can be. 

A national study published in 2022 by Safe Kids Worldwide and Nationwide Children’s Hospital showed that a child aged 18 or under visited an emergency room every 75 minutes with a battery-related injury, and button batteries accounted for an estimated 85% of those cases.  

Several public information resources, including fact sheets, posters, battery identification charts and more, are all available at BeBatterySmart.com. South Carolinians are encouraged to learn about household batter safety and to share this information with friends, family, coworkers and students. 

“Take Charge: Be Battery Smart” is centered on household batteries. It’s important to note that businesses must follow all requirements for both large and small quantity hazardous waste generators.  

For more information, visit BeBatterySmart.com. Learn more about ISRI at isri.org.  

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ISRI awards South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette with 2023 Recycling Impact Award

Originally published August 17, 2023 by Recycling Product News

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) has awarded South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette with the 2023 Recycling Impact Award.

The award, presented during the NLGA’s 2023 annual meeting in Des Moines, Iowa, is presented annually by ISRI in partnership with the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA), honouring a lieutenant governor demonstrating leadership in recycling, resource conservation, and sustainability in the U.S.

“Throughout her life, Lt. Governor Evette has been a champion of recycling initiatives, making an immeasurable impact on South Carolina,” said ISRI President Robin Wiener. “A true steward of the recycled materials industry and a dedicated public servant, she has demonstrated leadership in support of policies that recognize how valuable, high-quality recycled materials can support America’s sustainable supply chain. It is an honour to present her with the 2023 Recycling Impact Award, highlighting her contributions to critical recycling efforts.”

The granddaughter of a steel mill worker, Lt. Gov. Evette learned early on about the recycled material industry’s role as part of the global manufacturing supply chain. During her time in office, she has leaned on her experiences, along with her entrepreneurial background, to lead one of her key initiatives, ‘Grab A Bag SC’, a statewide effort encouraging communities across the state to pick up litter and recycle.

“This award serves as a collective reminder that every instance of recycling, regardless of its scale, truly impacts our communities and the pride we hold for them. Industries in our state count on recycled plastics this isn’t just an environmental issue but also a business issue,” said Lt. Gov. Pamela S. Evette. “I look forward to continuing to lead the charge against litter in South Carolina and hope this inspires others to take part in a recycling initiative in their community.

“The impact of our industry touches every aspect of life, from protecting the environment to ensuring the health of the manufacturing supply chain and supporting our communities through well-paying jobs,” said Mark Fredrickson, ISRI member and area manager of the South Carolina-based Commercial Metals Company (CMC) who presented Lt. Gov. Evette with the award. “Lt. Gov. Evette understands the importance of recycled materials. We are grateful for her support of our industry and the core values of ISRI’s member companies.”