Have yourselves a ‘Simpleng Pasko’

Members of a toxics watch group urge shoppers at Tutuban Mall in Divisoria to celebrate Christmas simply to show their solidarity with “Yolanda” victims. KIMBERLY DELA CRUZ

As Christmas approaches, celebrate in an austere and eco-sensitive way in deference to those affected by Supertyphoon “Yolanda.”

This was the appeal made by members of EcoWaste Coalition during a brief program Sunday at Tutuban Mall in Divisoria, Manila, where they urged the public to mark the holidays in a simple, not gaudy manner.

“Exactly one month after Supertyphoon Yolanda devastated some provinces in the Visayas leaving nearly 6,000 people dead with still thousands of people missing, and rendering hundreds and thousands homeless, EcoWaste Coalition is promoting this advocacy as a humble observance of the holiday season and to demonstrate solidarity with those affected by the calamity,” the group said in a statement.

Through “Simpleng Pasko (a simple Christmas),” it urged the public to make a conscious effort to cut down on holiday expenses and reduce trash generation for an austere and eco-sensitive Yuletide celebration.

“We’re not asking people to cast aside Christmas, but to adopt a “Simpleng Pasko” and find abundant joy in responding to the call for humanitarian help from the disaster survivors,” said Tin Vergara, EcoWaste Coalition’s zero waste campaigner.

“The money saved from lavish gifts, extravagant festivities and wasteful fireworks can be used to help Yolanda survivors reconstruct their homes and rebuild their lives,” she added.

The group urged the public to shun planned firework shows and instead divert the funds to affected families still in need.

Decor from previous years may be used while new ones like garlands and the “belen” can be created from recycled materials such as old cards, gift wraps and ribbons, it added.

Other suggestions from the group: A Christmas tree can be crafted from potted plants or trees, twigs or broomsticks.

Simple Christmas get-togethers can be organized with reusable party supplies instead of disposable plastic items.

Money and food saved from parties with a “no leftover policy” may be shared with less fortunate families.

Christmas shoppers should bring reusable bags while shopping for gifts and items.

Shop wisely

“Organize Christmas shopping wisely to avoid impulsive purchases and overspending, and also to cut fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Walk, [go biking] or take the jeepney, bus or train whenever possible,” the group said.

Instead of material things, quality time and company may count as better Christmas gifts. If gifts are a must, the group suggested that buyers opt for locally produced or organic food, or eco-friendly items like reusable nonpolycarbonate water jugs, solar-powered flashlights, and nontoxic personal and household care products.

Some gifts like potted plants, massage from blind masseurs, gift checks, concert or game passes, and raffle tickets don’t need wrapping. If necessary, old magazines or the comics page of newspapers and old bandanas can serve as handy gift wrappers.

At the same time, the group asked the public to choose wisely when buying new items through this reminder: “Look for those that are locally made, nontoxic, reusable and require no electricity.”