I bet you think it'll be hard to be green during festivities. Me too...just like how it'll be hard to stay away from the pineapple tarts. But well, where there's a will, there's a way! Baby steps. Use less plastic cutleries, and eat one less pineapple tart for a start. :)
Article taken off youthhabitat.sgTips For A Green Chinese New Year
You can kick-start a greener lifestyle by adopting the habits highlighted below:
Chinese New Year is a happy occasion, but with just a little bit of ingenuity and effort, you can make this Year of the Cow into a more eco-friendly one too!
Click "Read More" to read some CNY green tips.
When doing spring cleaning…
Sort your unwanted stuffs into recyclable and non-recyclable categories. Recyclable materials such as books, newspapers, plastic and glass bottles should be placed at recycling bins while the non-recyclables should be disposed of safely and considerately. Do not leave any unwanted items along the corridors!
Clothes that are still in good condition can be donated to charity e.g. Salvation Army. For clothes that cannot be salvaged or worn by anyone else, you can use them as rags during your spring cleaning.
When making purchases for the New Year…
When decorating your house to usher in the New Year, go for classic designs that can last for a longer time. Such designs can be re-used again next year, and you do not have to wait another 12 years to use your Mickey Mouse decorations again.
Send an e-card to express your wishes to your friends and business associates.
Avoid products with excessive packaging. These packaging looks good, but only add on to the rubbish once the feasting is over.
Instead of opting for plastic carriers, bring your own re-usable bags when you shop for New Year goodies.
Buy your New Year goodies in bulk instead of individually-wrapped items as the former will use less packaging materials. For instance, go for soft drinks that are packed in large ontainers rather than smaller ones.
Do not use disposable items such as cups, plates and napkins to serve your food.
After the feasting, remember to put your empty cans, plastic and glass bottles into the nearest recycling bins.
When making visits to friends and relatives …
Use public transport such as buses and MRTs.
Carpool with your friends and relatives during house-visiting trips.
When ordering buffet/catering at home ...
Ask for non-disposables; paying a little more while reducing the amount of waste generated during festive seasons is the least we can do as consumers.
