CDM goes zero waste

Sep 20, 2024

SHAH ALAM: The Church of the Divine Mercy (CDM) has made a significant leap towards environmental stewardship by inaugurating its Zero-Waste initiative to mark the beginning of the Season of Creation 2024. This pivotal milestone was celebrated with the release of the church’s Zero-Waste Guidelines by parish priest Fr. George Harrison.

The launch coincided with the World Day of Prayer for Creation, during which members of the Laudato Si’ Ministry received a special blessing at the 10.00am Mass. The ministry members pledged to continue their efforts in fostering an ecologically conscious church community.

Under the new zero-waste policy, CDM will eliminate the use of single-use packaging for all church events and meetings. Parishioners are encouraged to bring their own food containers and tumblers for events involving dining on church premises, including the popular Sunday Coffee Morning. For private events, reusable tableware and cutlery will be provided at the cafeteria, available for communal use upon prior booking.

This initiative responds to a pressing environmental issue highlighted by a recent WWFMalaysia report, which reveals that Malaysians produce over 1 million tonnes of plastic waste annually. A significant portion of this plastic waste ends up in the ocean and infiltrates our food chain as microplastics, which can carry harmful substances. Recycling alone is insufficient to address the plastic problem, as only nine per cent of plastics are recycled while the remainder contributes to landfill waste. Adopting a zerowaste lifestyle promotes mindful consumption and reduces waste, mitigating these environmental impacts.

To further support environmental stewardship, the Laudato Si’ Ministry at CDM has organised a series of activities. On September 28, a retreat titled Understanding Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum will be led by Dato’ Dr Dionysius Sharma. On October 5, catechism children will participate in preparing meals for the needy using surplus food at The Assembly Soup Kitchen (T.A.S.K.). For pet enthusiasts, a special Mass and pet blessing will take place on October 6 at 4.00pm.

The church hopes that these initiatives, coupled with ongoing education, will inspire individuals to respond to the Holy Father’s call to address the “Cry of the Earth and Cry of the Poor.” Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle is seen as a crucial first step in this collective effort. --Naomi Anne Dominic