MACAU DAILY TIMES 澳門每日時報Macau IC2 association organizes green initiative for Earth Day

IN In celebration of World Earth Day, the Macau IC2 Association, a local non-profit organization that promotes the rights of neurodivergent individuals, organized a series of eco-friendly activities at the Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau yesterday.

The event, with the theme ‘Planet vs. Plastic’, aimed to raise awareness about the impact of using disposable plastic utensils and similar utensils on the environment. This year was the fourth year in a row that the association organized the green initiative.

“We hope that more people can come to our event and learn more about how to practice a green lifestyle, such as how to recycle things in everyday life,” said António Luís Leong, President of the Macau IC2 Association.

The event started with a pickleball demonstration, followed by a fashion show using recycled materials, a choir performance and a green lecture. All activities were planned and executed with the help of members of the Macau IC2 Association, who are neurodivergent individuals.

“The reason is that the Macau IC2 Association is the only organization specifically created by and for neurodiverse individuals,” said Ada Lo, IC2 Association course instructor.

“This event is actually their graduation project, and if they succeed, they graduate. If they don’t, they fail. It’s been three months since they started.”

The Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau and the Macau IC2 Association “share the belief and concept of sustainability” and are committed to doing their part to protect the environment, according to a press release from the hotel.

“It’s fantastic. It couldn’t be better. It really fits in with our core values,” says Rutger Verschuren, vice president of Artyzen Area. “We stand for art, culture and heritage, but also for inclusivity. Today everything revolves about inclusivity, bringing the entire community together.”

The hotel has implemented several sustainable practices, including reducing plastic waste, using glass bottles instead of plastic bottles in restaurants and eliminating plastic straws.

“Our focus is on going green, and that’s not just because of legal requirements,” Verschuren added. “It is in line with our commitment to combat climate change and take more responsibility for our planet.”

The Macau IC2 Association faces several challenges, such as the lack of government funding and a permanent location for their activities. However, the association remains committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals and promoting environmental awareness in the community.

“The main message I want to convey is that they are capable individuals and should not be feared,” Lo said. Staff reporter

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