This was one of the many responses received when EnviroServ Waste Management put their recycled tree, made from recycled plastic bottles, up at The Zone on 3 December.
EnviroServ Waste Management believes it is more than just an African waste manager and rather is an integral part of the South African society. The company sponsored the recycled festive tree to raise awareness about the benefits of recycling, reusing and reducing waste for a sustainable future for South Africa.
Children were also encouraged to join in on the festivities and make ornaments, as the company is hoping to get its message of recycling, as well as charity, across to the youth.
“There are huge benefits in terms of reduction in both energy and water use through responsible waste behaviour,” said EnviroServ spokesperson, Makgabo van Niekerk.
“With our current water and energy challenges, following the three Rs – reduce, reduce, recycle – is something that every South African can do to help grow our economy in a sustainable way. South Africa has limited landfill space, so responsible behaviour is crucial if we are to protect our fragile environment.”
For those who doubt the impact of recycling, by recycling just one plastic bottle, you would save enough energy to power a CFL light bulb for 30 hours. That means the 2 000 bottles reused in the ‘upcycled festive tree’ (all of which will be sent for recycling after the festive season) could light a CFL bulb for 60 000 hours.
“This initiative is designed to give South Africa a green festive gift in two ways. Both through raising awareness of the importance of increasing our environmental awareness as a nation, and to raise funds for a bursary for a deserving student who would not otherwise be able to afford tertiary education,” continued Van Niekerk.
Students who meet the criteria to gain entrance to an Environmental Sciences Degree can apply to bursary@enviroserv.co.za and could be selected by a senior panel of EnviroServ executive committee members for a bursary. The winner will be announced next year.
Details: 011 422 2560.
