Let’s have a Green festive holiday

AS holiday festivities are upon us, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) invites all stakeholders and the general public to be mindful of the environment this season by incorporating ecofriendly practices that will add green sparkle to any celebration.

During the holiday season, extra waste is generated as a result of the procurements that are related to the festive season.

However, with a little creativity, we can all do our part to reduce holiday waste and enjoy this beautiful season responsibly by making a commitment to go green.

Families can go green during the holiday season by following these five easy tips all season long:

1. Buy Green and Recycle: Check product labels to determine whether an item is made from recycled materials. Buying recycled products encourages manufacturers to make more recycled-content products available.

2. Wrap Green: Consider earth friendly wrapping alternatives. Scarves, handkerchiefs, old maps, newspapers, children’s artwork, repurposed gift bags and reusable containers like cookie tins or baskets all make great packaging. Replace ribbons and bows with natural evergreens, berries, dried flowers and keep them as decorations or compost them after the gifts are unwrapped.

3. Gift Green: Music lessons, concert tickets, museum passes, or even favours like babysitting make great zero waste gifts. Find out the gift recipient’s favourite charity and make a donation in his or her honour, or commit to volunteering time with that organisation.

4. Carpool with friends and family during the holidays: Spend quality time with friends and family by carpooling to holiday activities to avoid traffic jams.

5. Be a Green Host: When entertaining, use washable utensils, plates, glasses, napkins and table linens. If you don’t already have these items, consider renting rather than purchasing them. If you have leftover food, send it home with your guests or donate it to a locals with pets such as dogs and cats.

The Environmental Management Agency wishes you a prosperous 2019. As we enjoy the festive season, lets spare a thought for the environment and keep it clean.

Environmental Facts, Tips and Updates are published weekly by the Environmental Management Agency. Send your feedback to; eep@ema.co.zw, like us on Facebook: Environmental Management Agency and twitter:@EMAeep or visit our website www. ema.co.zw Alternatively, call us on: Tel 086 77006244 and Toll-free 08080028; or use our WhatsApp platform 0779565707. We are ready to listen.