GREENING FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS

AS the festive season continues, it is a time of joy, togetherness and indulgence. However, it is also a time when environmental degradation spikes due to increased consumption, waste and resource use. In Eswatini, a country already grappling with environmental challenges such as waste management and climate change, it is important to adopt eco-friendly practices during this time of celebration. Embracing sustainable habits not only protects our environment, but also ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty of our land and its resources.

Environmental impact of the festive season
The festive season is characterised by heightened consumerism. From elaborate feasts to endless gift exchanges, the season often leads to excessive waste generation. In Eswatini, this is evident in the increased piles of plastic packaging, food waste and discarded decorations that accumulate during this period. During this time, a significant portion of waste generated during December and January ends up in landfills, where it contributes to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the increased use of electricity during the festive season and fuel for transportation further strains our already limited resources.

Eswatini, like many other African nations, is feeling the effects of climate change. From rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns and environmental degradation. Being environmentally conscious during the festive season can help mitigate some of these effects. By adopting sustainable practices, we reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. Moreover, aligning our festive traditions with eco-friendly values fosters a sense of responsibility and stewardship for our natural resources.

Practical ways to celebrate sustainably in Eswatini
Here are some actionable steps individuals and communities in Eswatini can take to make the festive season more environmentally friendly:Wrap gifts the African way. You can replace single-use wrapping paper with an old lihiya (traditional Swazi cloth) or colorful fabrics that can be reused. This not only looks stunning, but also honours African heritage while reducing waste.

Use handmade decorations.  It is sustainable to use natural, locally available materials such as sisal grass or seeds to create biodegradable decorations. Making these as a family can be a fun, bonding activity steeped in creativity. You can also support local artisans by buying  handmade gifts from local markets. These items often use fewer resources to produce and supporting small businesses boosts the local economy.

Share feasts and save food. Food is central to festive celebrations, but careful planning can minimise waste. Leftovers can be shared with extended family or donated to those in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry during this time of abundance. Compost and recycle. You can turn food scraps into compost for your garden. In urban areas like Mbabane and Manzini, you can take advantage of recycling facilities and sell the accumulated plastics, cans and bottles to get a few coins.

Community action for a greener festive season
The festive season offers an opportunity for communities to come together for environmental causes. Churches and youth groups can organise clean-up campaigns in their neighborhoods. Such activities not only beautify the environment, but also instill a sense of pride and collective responsibility. Young people in Eswatini are already stepping up. Initiatives like EcoHarmony Eswatini’s digital campaign on plastic pollution and the ‘Clean Up Your Kasi’ challenge showcase how collective action can create meaningful change. Let’s all join in, amplify these efforts, and inspire others to celebrate sustainably.

While individual actions are vital, systemic change is equally important. Government and environmental organisations in Eswatini can use the festive season as an opportunity to promote eco-friendly practices. Public awareness campaigns, stricter regulations on plastic use and incentives for businesses adopting sustainable practices can make a significant difference. For instance, Eswatini Environment Authority could collaborate with local businesses to encourage the use of biodegradable packaging during the festive season.

As we celebrate New Year, let us remember that the festive season is not just about abundance and extravagance. It is also a time to reflect on our values and responsibilities. By being environmentally sound in our celebrations, we honour the spirit of giving, not just to each other, but to the Earth as well. The Earth has given us so much; it’s only fair that we try to be more sustainable during this festive season.

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