Tis’ the season to be jolly. It is also the season to think and act responsibly. So, if you want to be on Santa’s Nice List, here are just 5 ways to make it onto the list.
GIVE BACK
The festive period can be a very stressful period for our pets and other wild animals in general, especially those who inhabit our cities and suburban areas, like vervet monkeys, birds and the like.
Why don’t you consider donating to or helping out at the local animal shelter or SPCA.
Or better, go easy on the fireworks by ditching the big bangs.
And, don’t forget about the humans. It is also a stressful time for them too. Lend a helping hand, or ear.
KEEP IT INSIDE
Out for a night on the town? Or going on a much needed road trip?
Don’t forget to keep your trash in the car. You can always empty out or clean out the car once you arrive at your destination.
Don’t be a grinch by throwing stuff out of a moving vehicle. Not only is it illegal, but it is dangerous as well.
WATCH WHAT YOU FLUSH
Oil, fats, food, newspaper, Christmas Turkey and your pair of old jeans. These are not stuff to flush down the toilet or the drain.
Many of our cities are reeling from a sewage crisis brought about by failing municipal infrastructure, financial mismanagement & corruption - and a serious lack of by-law enforcement.
So, apart from causing local sewage blockages and spills in your area, you are further compromising the sewer system, which is currently on life-support.
COMPOST YOUR FOOD WASTE
Instead of making bin collection day a headache , try composting all your food waste by investing in a compost bin . And watch nature do its magic on your food waste.
You will find that you will have less bags to take out on bin collection day, less flies and your neighbour’s dog won’t be tempted to have a go at the bags.
And just imagine if you’re also recycling your plastic, paper and glass - you’d probably have no waste which goes to landfill !
CHRISTMAS TREE… OH CHRISTMAS TREE !
If you’re buying a fake Christmas tree every year, you should really think twice. We’ve got to play our part in reducing waste which ends up in landfills.
If you’re not re-using your previous year’s fake Christmas tree, maybe you should consider buying a potted living tree.
Or even better, plant a new tree for Christmas, and help the planet.
So, that’s it! My 5 tips for this holiday season.
Here’s hoping that you have a safe & peaceful festive season, and that the new year brings new perspectives and opportunities for you .
And if you should end up on Santa’s naughty list, just know that you’ll be sharing that honour with government officials, politicians… and of course, ESKOM !