DENR to public: Use less, waste less

MANILA, Philippines - The public has been reminded to be environmentally thoughtful during the holiday season by observing the “use less, waste less” principle, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said yesterday.

Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said people should avoid overindulgence and waste during the Christmas and New Year celebrations to reduce the environmental impact of the festive season.

“Christmas is a time for family, friends, merry-making and gift-giving. Unfortunately, it is also the most wasteful time of the year, with millions of tons of food, packaging and unwanted gifts being thrown away each year,” Paje lamented.

The environment chief reminded the public to be more prudent in the use of materials, energy and leftover food in order to generate less waste and reduce the amount of trash.

He encouraged everyone to think of “eco-friendly ways to give gifts” and patronize products made of recyclable materials, reusable packaging and promote sustainable use of natural resources.

“Like before, we urge the local government units or communities to assign common areas to set off firecrackers, both to reduce air pollution as well as promote safety,” Paje said.

Instead of throwing lavish parties or lighting up noisy, smoky fireworks, Paje said companies and organizations could give back to Mother Nature by engaging in charity work and joining tree-planting or cleanup activities.