Recycling Christmas tree competition launched |13 November 2020

Christmas is a time when many preparations are done to decorate homes. In doing so a lot of money is spent on decorations, many of which are imported or are non biodegradable.

This year, with Covid-19, importation of decorations will sure reduce or become more expensive.

People living in small island developing states, which depend heavily on tourists, need to be more conscious of what we import and buy. Therefore, there is a need to try and use as much as we can produce locally, as well as reduce, reuse and recycle.

With that in mind the department of Environment and Climate Change is organising a recycling Christmas tree competition for schools and homes. People wishing to participate in the competition must first fill in a registration form. During mid of December, judges will visit registered homes to judge the set up Christmas tree. The judges will be looking for the following:

• Originality and uniqueness of the design
• Creativity, coherence, and craftsmanship of the tree
• Overall appearance / appeal and visual impact (day and night)

Note: Christmas lights and other electrical devices may be added to enhance the visual appeal/effect of the decorations. Participants can also use finishing craft materials such as ribbons, paints, fabrics, buttons, other crafts accessories etc to embellish their recycled craft hanging decors. Tree must be between 1.5 to 2m. It is also important to show that the work done is not from a professional craftsman, but participation of the family. Therefore, photographic evidence of the creation should be made available to the judges.

For more information and registration, please contact Mr Clarisse on 2827096 or email c.clarisse@env.gov.sc.

Press release from the department of Environment & Climate Change