Hundreds gather at TPA for Earth Day event highlighting sustainability efforts

From big companies like Coca-Cola and Publix, to local non-profits and universities, hundreds gathered at Tampa International Airport last week for a showcase of sustainability efforts in celebration of Earth Day.

Southwest Airlines showed off designer products including handbags, clothing and notebooks made from leather upcycled from aircraft passenger seats. Coca-Cola presented a display showing what happens to plastic and aluminum drink bottles when they're turned in for recycling. Publix was on hand to promote the recycling of plastic bags, egg cartons and other items accepted at their store locations.