Saint Eve, from Silveira Neto’s Flickr

I had the opportunity, today, of reading statement-interview, with Vilma Peramezza, trustee of the “Conjunto Nacional” (National Complex) and a pioneer in selective collection. She brings lots of sensible subjects and came, almost together with other news, published in OGlobo (newspaper), that I read in the Recycling Pages: Cetesb will count the cities that export their garbage.

On days prior to Christmas, besides the traffic that is totally crazy, life is flagged with consumption appeal. Formal workers usually get some extra money, here comes the time to fill the bottom of the tree with gifts and everybody goes to the mall.

The results of this consumption are millions of tons of… garbage. Many times, recyclable. In all of the Sao Paulo state, so tells us that article from the Recycling pages, only 5% of all garbage is recycled. In the capital, 2%. It’s worth to emphasize that the National Complex, thanks to continued education already recycles 15% of its garbage. With very little economic advantage. And, according to Cetesb, 30% or 35% of the garbage that go to embankments, is recyclable. Such precious space spent with what shouldn’t be there – and that, not to talk about the soil and spring contamination.

When you buy a gift, do you think about it? Probably not. I think you should. I’ve never hesitated in buying a book – one of the gifts that I love giving the most. But, I’ve thought it over one zillion times: the packages. I never let the store pack it, I don’t need a plastic bag – why do I have my ecobag? – and I use everything. I’ve given a present, once, rapped in newspaper with the most beautiful ribbon. A friend of mine, invented, long time ago, a very simple package, in light green silk paper (that I think is not very ecologic) with red ribbon. These simple games – and a lot more personal – make all difference.

I invite you all: what if, almost Christmas, we imagine, really, more ecologic gifts? Reminding us that the world can be sweeter, less pasteurized and better taken care of. What do you suggest?

Vacations are coming. This is a time where lots of families travel and to avoid the use of the car is not an option. What to do to decrease the harmful impact towards the environment? The ideal is that the car holds a technology that makes it less pollutant and the driver drives with more conscience. And, in case it or he isn’t, a good review must be done in order to avoid wastage and unnecessary expenses. It’s important to try to avoid rush hours to travel, leaving later or earlier. A good tip is to consult information on internet or media, about traffic situation. Using technology, one can reduce emission, travel time and possible stress.

One other very important thing is to avoid little travel shopping, taking in small reusable recipients, shampoo, soap and other needs. The use of plastic or paper to pack our buys, is a very good tip as well. Shopping bags are perfect to keep dirty and wet shoes, separated from other items in your luggage; and paper bags are excellent to pack sandwiches to take in the car.

The concern over the environment must walk with you, wherever you are, and, in vacation times, one must have enough conscience and respect towards nature, if you are a visitant. Mainly, if you are in a natural environment, feel responsible for preserving those places. And have a great vacation!

Image: from here