This article is from page 18 of the 2012-11-13 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
CLARE County Council is not so much wishing for a white as much as a green Christmas this year.
The local authority is urging members of the public to “think green” and spare a thought for the environment in the run-up to Christmas this year.
The council will launch its annual Green Christmas campaign at a special event in Áras Contae an Chláir on Thursday, November 22, during which food and crafts producers will illustrate the importance of purchasing goods locally and the knock-on positive effects for the environment. Talks on upcycling will also demonstrate to members of the public who attend the many benefits by providing new ideas for customised, sustainable Christmas gifts.”
The council’s Environment Section will also host an information stand promoting the importance of upcycling, recycling and waste prevention during the festive period.
The event coincides with European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR), a European-wide project aimed at promoting sustainable waste reduction actions in Member States.
Mayor of Clare Cllr Pat Daly (FF) said the upcoming event will help to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local producers for both the economy and the environment.
He said, “By shopping for locallyproduced food or fair trade labels, the people of Clare will be helping the environment by reducing the air miles required in sourcing such products.
“There are also many ways in which the public can help protect the environment in the lead up to, during and after Christmas. Each December and January the council sees a huge increase in activity at its recycling facilities and bring banks, which is testament to the public’s heightened awareness of the importance of protecting the environment around them. “This year, I would appeal to everyone to take heed of the ‘green’ tips being provided by the council to help reduce the amount of waste we produce.”
Pre-Christmas tips from the local authority include buying presents that do not require excessive packaging, wrapping presents with recycled paper, sending festive e-cards to cut down on packaging, supporting local and fair trade producers, recycling shopping bags and composting food waste. Householders are also being urged to recycle all packaging, and take empty bottles and tins to one of Clare’s many bring banks.
According to Joan Tarmey, Clare’s Environmental Awareness Officer, “One of the main objectives of the campaign is to inspire people to add a twist to their Christmas gifts this year by upcycling. Upcycling is the latest trend, and it’s all about being creative and reusing everyday items to make creative and truly original items. We all love customised gifts, so if you’re looking for original gift ideas, drop into the 30 minute upcycling talks starting at 1pm in Aras Contae an Chláir in Ennis. There will be some sample ideas there to inspire you.”