Similarly to other celebrations, Ligo does not pass without a festive feast, decorations and making a fire. All this can result in large amounts of waste, causing pollution to the environment.
How to avoid making waste-generation a new Ligo tradition? Latvijas Zaļais punkts environment management chief Laura Berga shares recommendations.
Planning is important
Timely planning of celebrations is an important part for making the celebration itself successful and environmentally friendly. Where to start? Pick a smartphone or a piece of paper and a pen and make a list: number of guests, menu, decorations and activities.
The list of necessary purchases should be made based on this list. This will help avoid unnecessary purchases and expenses, as well as reduce the volume of waste generated after the celebration.
Shop only following the list and pick only environmentally friendly products
Once it is clear what is needed for the celebration, including meals and decorations, it is important to strictly follow the list. Celebrations generally pass with a rich menu. However, it is important to keep in mind that after celebration there is usually a large volume of waste left. This means it is important to buy only what is really necessary.
It is also important to pay attention to the packaging used – if possible, it is a good idea to purchase products with the least amount of packaging as possible or without packaging at all. For example, meat, fish and other products can be purchased in a reusable container people bring with them.
If it is not possible to get by without packaging, it is recommended to make sure the packaging that comes with the product is recyclable.
Say NO to single-use plates
Although plastic single-use plastic plates and other table and kitchenware have been banned some time ago in Latvia, there are alternative options available, made of other materials, such as carton. While seemingly environmentally friendly, it is still important to keep in mind they are made from natural materials to be used once and then to be thrown away. To avoid generating more waste, it is recommended to use everyday tableware.
Decorations made from unnecessary items found at home
Branches are some of the most main decorations for Ligo. In Latvian folklore they are mentioned as wards against evil. However, there are also other decorations on the market, such as artificial flowers and fruits, ribbons, candle holders, thematic beer mugs, plates and others. If decorations like that are bought to be used in other celebrations, then there is no problem. However, sometimes there are situations when they are kept on shelves after celebrations, gathering dust and only to end up in the bin in the end.
To avoid such situations, it is important to consider if such decorations are even needed.
Waste is NOT fuel for fire!
When planning Ligo bonfire, it is important to put it is a permitted and safe spot. It is also important to make sure the bonfire does not become a place for burning waste.
All waste when burned generates a lot of air pollution. There are also types of waste that are especially dangerous for the environment, especially car tires. To make sure Ligo celebration passes without incidents and fines for illegal waste burning, organisers of events and guests are urged to be responsible and leave waste only in places appropriate for waste.
Sorted waste containers
It is recommended to plan out in advance sorted waste collection containers. All containers should be market with special labels to indicate which kinds of waste should be put in them. For example, label one container for unsorted waste, and others – respective to individual types of waste (glass, plastic, beverage containers, etc.).
After celebration house owners or organisers of events will have an easier time of making sure waste is delivered to appropriate sorting facilities.
In an effort to motivate residents to celebrate holidays in an environmentally friendly manner, Latvijas Zaļais punkts reminds residents of simple 5P principles to help reduce waste volumes: Say No to unnecessary purchases, Pick environmentally friendly products, Reuse, Recycle and Find a second use.
Advise to prevent waste generation from becoming a new Ligo tradition
