Can you get three in a row ?
Is it possible to celebrate Hari Raya that don’t cost the earth ? We think so ! Here’s your guide to the perfect sustainable Raya !
Introducing Sustainable Raya Bingo! Now you can scroll through your Hari Raya list while trying to win this game that has no prizes except the general sense of accomplishment :
From ditching plastic utensils and straws to swapping/ exchanging Hari Raya clothes with friends or families, you can easily have a sustainable Hari Raya with just a few small changes.
Here are a few easy tips for a green Hari Raya to try :
Opt Out plastic utensils & straws
Explore plastic utensils and plastic straw alternatives. There are plenty of plastic utensils alternatives.
What makes plastic straws unique is that for the vast majority of people they are not necessary. What’s more, sustainable, ocean-friendly alternatives are available. If you don’t need to drink using a straw, commit to skipping the straw. It is a small step that goes a long way for landfill and ocean health.
Skipped packaged drinks
Prepare your own drinks. All you need is a large pitcher, glass jar, or a drink dispenser. If you host parties often, it’s a good idea to invest in one that you can reuse each time. This way, you don’t need for packaged drink.
Ask guests to bring along their own containers
Find alternatives for take-aways. Ask your guests to bring along their own containers and reusable utensils. Tell them that they are welcome to bring home food as long as they have their own containers. This way you won’t have food waste, your guests will be happy, and you don’t have to wash the dishes.
Swap / Exchange Hari Raya Clothes With Friends / Family
For Raya this year, instead of hitting the mall or browsing for your Raya clothes online, try swap or exchange Hari Raya clothes with friends or family.
Or you could even DIY your own outfit with the ones that you’ve bought few years ago. You can win on both sides; care for the earth and still look fabulous.
Reuse Duit Raya Packets / Green packets
The green packets are also traditionally gifted to children and young adults by working adults and individuals, green packet also signifies best wishes to the receivers which is based on the Muslim custom of Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and Zakat (a form of almsgiving).
Keep the Hari Raya packets and let your parents reuse them next year. Or, if you are meant to give them out, ask your younger siblings or relatives if they can help keep it nicely for next year.
Show Off Your Barista Skills
Discover new drinks by showing off your barista skills. Design the new drinks around seasonal fruits and local ingredients. It reduces food miles, helps build community networks and economies,
Shop Smartly
We all know that when it comes to festive season like Hari Raya, we tend to overindulge. While overindulgence may give you the instant gratification you seek, you’re also at risk of wasting.
Shop smartly – That means buy only what you need. Before you head out to shop for ingredients to cook for your open house, estimate how much food to cook, make a shopping list and stick to it.
Reuse Hamper Bags
Traditionally, hampers use a considerable amount of packing material, cellophane wrapping and adhesive tape; which is harmful to the environment as these are typically discarded without any thought.
For Raya this year, choose recycled hampers or hampers with minimal plastic waste and could be reused for storage purposes at home or office. After all, simplicity is class. Simple decorations turn out to be the most gorgeous.
Happy playing and sending all our good wishes to you on this Eid. Happy Eid Mubarak, dear sister/brother.
