Brett Davis is the founding director of Grounds Krewe, a New Orleans nonprofit working to reduce waste during Mardi Gras and other large-scale events. We sit down with Brett to unpack how Mardi Gras has become one of the most waste-producing events in the world, why plastic parade throws are at the center of the problem, and how the structure of an unsponsored, unticketed celebration has unintentionally fueled massive environmental impact.

We also dig into how Grounds Krewe is addressing this challenge through prevention and reduction, from their Sustainable Throw Catalog featuring functional, locally sourced items to their Recycle Dat! program that diverts materials from landfills and supports other nonprofits. Brett shares the behind-the-scenes realities of building this work, the role of volunteers and community support, and what’s next, including ambitious plans for biodegradable beads made from Louisiana sugarcane waste. This conversation invites us to rethink what Mardi Gras can look like when sustainability and culture move forward together.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

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