With the upcoming holidays, the memory of the deceased can also be honored in an ecological manner. Options include candles made from beeswax and vegetable wax, reusable candles, and so-called upcycled or natural decorations. In contrast, plastic candles, artificial flowers, and wreaths often end up in landfills after the holiday. This information comes from Simona Hlaváčová and Jana Reháková, founders of the social enterprise Baterkáreň Trnava. "According to estimates, up to half of the year's waste in cemeteries is generated during All Saints' Day," Reháková explained. Hlaváčová added that most decorations are made of non-recyclable plastics that can take hundreds of years to decompose in nature, but there are various ecological alternatives available. She also mentioned the option of digital memories for those unable to visit the cemetery, suggesting that online remembrances can help minimize waste. Another way to reduce one’s carbon footprint is to choose sustainable transportation. "If the cemetery is nearby, consider walking, biking, or using public transport," she advised. The goal of Baterkáreň Trnava is to inform and educate people about a more sustainable lifestyle. It operates Slovakia’s first reuse center and regularly organizes creative workshops, lectures, and book exchanges.
Source: TASR
