Message in the plastics
A GROUP from the University of the South Pacific is using waste to highlight their Christmas message.
POLYP (Pacific Ocean Litter Youth Project) co-founder Suzanne Turaganiwai from the USP’s Institute of Applied Sciences and her team created a small nativity scene using bottle caps, other plastic waste, and reusable props.
They were joined by staff from another regional body the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC).
“Every Friday we did clean up at different areas and the PCC team would invite their partners and members and we were able to get a lot more things done to get this significant piece done,” she said.
“We want people to see what’s in their environment, what’s washed up on the beaches and what’s in the sea.
“Hopefully that will start conversations on how we can do better as people of the Pacific.”
The POLYP co-founder said actions such as “refusing single-use plastic at family gatherings could influence a lot more people to be part of this great initiative”.
PCC general secretary Reverend James Bhagwan said the launch of the nativity scene while signifying the spirit of Christmas also highlighted the importance of waste management and environmental sustainability.
He said USP together with PCC, as regional institutions, played an important role in raising awareness about proper waste management in rural and urban centres.
“This Christmas, I would implore our fellow Pacific brothers and sisters that while we’re enjoying our Christmas traditions of gift exchanges, may we also think about reducing our plastic waste.”