ENVIRONMENT / Notes about your surroundings

Trash Course--Companies that have cut costs by reducing waste will share their strategies during a satellite presentation Wednesday at UC Irvine. The forum, originating in Washington, is sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency’s WasteWise program. Speakers include Jim Bosch, environmental team leader for Target Stores; Nancy Hirschberg, director of natural resources for Stonyfield Farm Inc.; and Jim McCarthy, general manager of government and public affairs for Citgo Petroleum Corp. Ken Brown, waste analyst at the Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance, will discuss the hidden costs of nonessential practices in the office, shipping and receiving department and purchasing.

The presentation is scheduled from 8 to 10 a.m. on campus. Cost is $25. Information and registration: (949) 824-5414.

Tea Time--A fund-raiser for the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum begins Saturday at 6 p.m. The “Newport Tea Party,” named to protest taxation of the nonprofit museum, includes cocktails, gaming tables, music and a silent auction. The museum exhibits ship models, marine paintings, photographs and nautical artifacts, and offers maritime study programs and marine biology and environmental projects. Proceeds from the event, co-hosted by the Newport-Balboa Rotary Club, will also benefit youth and community service projects. Tickets are $35. The museum is at 151 E. Coast Highway, Newport Beach, aboard the Pride of Newport. Information: (949) 673-7863.

Deep Sleepers--Juan Hernandez, marine biologist with the Department of Fish and Game, will discuss “Homes on the Ocean Floor” at a campfire Saturday in the amphitheater on Shellmaker Island. It begins at 7:30 p.m. Warm clothes and a blanket are recommended. The island is off Backbay Drive in Newport Beach. Information: (949) 640-6746.