Carnival stakeholders are being urged to be conscious of their choice of materials in their designs.
An initiative by the Basel Convention Regional Centre, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Environmental Management Authority seeks to promote this consciousness through the elimination of hazardous chemicals within the supply chains in the Carnival fashion industry.
The Integrated Programme, Elimination of Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains is a six-year initiative aiming to make Carnival and cultural celebrations environmentally responsible.
Chemicals and Waste Coordinator at the Global Environment Facility, Anil Sookdeo, says the waste generated from Carnival is alarming, hence the creation of this initiative.
“We generate over 3.5 tonnes of waste in just two days of festivities. Many of those materials are contaminated with chemicals that persist in our environment and threaten our health. So this project is not about changing the spirit of Carnival, it’s about elevating it and, by extension, the fashion industry in Trinidad and Tobago.”
Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh stressed the significance of sustainable practices, saying they have to be reflected in designs and in daily life.
“I think also, as we described it in the policy initiatives of the Kamla Persad-Bissessar-led administration, of the Mia Mottley-led administration, and the voices that bring attention to the fact that we, as a Caribbean, we have issues that we face, whether it is coastal erosion, when it comes to environmental preservation. It’s not about just putting solar panels. It’s about a lifestyle that recognises the fact that we have inherited something wonderful. Let us not just preserve it, but let us take care of it.”
Fashion designer Naballah Chi, whose practices involve upcycling her pieces, commended this sustainable initiative, urging more designers to become part of the change.
“One of my core values for my brand is sustainability, and I usually incorporate that by upcycling my pieces and doing hand paintings on my designs. I really like to incorporate traditional craftsmanship in my brand. For me, going green is very important because I would like to contribute to the circular economy of Trinidad and Tobago. Fashion is one of the most wasteful industries in the world, and I want to do my part to curb that.”
The Integrated Programme on the Elimination of Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains is projected to go beyond environmental management, offering direct benefits by addressing issues affecting health, culture, economy, and sustainability.