MIDDLEBORO — The public is encouraged to bring clean polystyrene packing materials, commonly known as Styrofoam, peanuts, egg and other food cartons for recycling at the Cooler Middleboro Fair to be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 1 at Middleboro High School.

Local manufacturer Insulation Technologies Inc. in Bridgewater is one of a few companies in the state that recycle polystyrene to be turned into insulation and other long-use products. That keeps it out of the environment.

The company turns the items into foam blocks and sheets, and most of that is turned into insulation and construction materials by other manufacturers.

That is just one of the features of the fair, which will also offer a Shark Tank competition of student ideas for environmental projects and businesses, and student artists performing skits about sustainability.

Families and children can walk inside Salt, the life-size inflatable humpback whale, make shark necklaces, plant seeds, and enjoy free crafts and games. School students, the 4H-Club, and youth groups will exhibit what they’re learning about the environment and sustainability.

For adults, the fair will be a one-stop opportunity to learn about insulation, heat pumps, hot water heaters, induction stoves, and solar panels as well as rebates, tax credits, and financing to help pay for them. 

The fair is cosponsored by Sustainable Middleboro, the high school’s environmental YESS Club, and local nonprofit New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance, with funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and Cooler Communities.

 For more information, contact sustainablemiddleborough@gmail.com.