A few days before Christmas and New Year, the EcoWaste Coalition, an environmental group, issued timely reminders for clean and safe celebrations, particularly in public parks.
Every Christmas and New Year, many families go to different places of recreation such as Rizal Park in Manila City, Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City and other public parks to celebrate the festive holidays with their loved ones.
Although it brings joy to families, especially children, this yuletide practice seems to carry a burden for Mother Earth because of the garbage left in every corner of recreational parks.
In order to prevent and reduce the generation of waste, and to make the celebration peaceful and safe, the EcoWaste Coalition encourages the public to be guided by the following “Park Etiquette” or “Parktiquette”:
1. Plan the park visit and prepare the essential things to bring.
- Bring enough food and drink to avoid spending.
- Put the items in a reusable container and take them home afterwards.
- Carry water in a reusable tumbler.
- Avoid single-use plastic and anything disposable.
- Do not bring beer or alcohol into the park.
- Bring an umbrella and other sun and rain protection.
- Instead of wet wipes or tissues, bring cloth serviettes.
- Bring a container for discards and take them home.
- Never litter and burn garbage.
- Appreciate the flowers and plants, but don’t pick or step on them.
- Practice good personal hygiene.
- Keep the environment smoke-free and vape-free.
- Keep the toilet clean, and don’t pee in the wrong place.
- Never light firecrackers or fireworks in the park.
- Be helpful to the elderly and persons with disabilities.
- Keep a close eye on the children, as well as your personal belongings.
- Take care of the playground equipment.
- Avoid loud conversations and music.
- Give others the opportunity to use and enjoy the park.
- Be respectful of fellow visitors and their space.
- If you have a car, park only in the designated place.
- Respect the park personnel.
- Follow the prescribed rules of the park.
- Before leaving the park, do CLAYGO (clean as you go).
“Let’s cooperate to maintain the cleanliness, safety and order in our public parks for a happy and eco-friendly get-together, Christmas and New Year or not,” the EcoWaste Coalition pleaded.
