Striking a balance between vegetarianism and environmentalism
Tzu Chi Singapore launched the “21-Day Healthy Diet Challenge” and provided two vegetarian meals daily to 34 participants for three weeks. The logistics of meal delivery was already tedious, and it would be even more inconvenient if the delivery team chose to use reusable containers. However, volunteers persevered on striking a balance between vegetarianism and environmentalism. With everyone’s cooperation, the team was able to successfully avoid the use of disposable containers for 21 days.
Volunteers launched the first season of “21-Day Health Diet Challenge (Singapore Edition)” on 2nd August. It required wisdom and perseverance to deliver exquisite healthy meals using reusable containers to participants before returning the empty containers to the restaurant.
Tzu Chi Volunteer Lee Sok Kuan Anri: Sister, I will arrive in ten minutes.
Tzu Chi Volunteer Lee Sok Kuan Anri: We start the lunch delivery at 11 am and collect used containers from the participants. At 4:10 pm, we have to collect around 20 washed containers from Sister Ann Jee for dinner. This is because we have to alternate between the containers.
During the 21 days, Sister Sok Kuan, Sister Ann Jee and the delivery team were busy with the lunch and dinner of every participant. Apart from arranging the delivery time and routes, they also had to disinfect every single container.
Tzu Chi Volunteer Lee Sok Kuan Anri: After collection, we rinse with boiled water, wipe and dry the containers. Then, we send them to the Eco-Harmony Café. We do it perfectly, so that everyone will be able to eat healthily and happily.
“21-day Healthy Diet Challenge” Coordinator, Lai Tong Heng: Our challenge is greater by choosing to use reusable containers. After several rounds of discussion, we almost discarded the idea due to the difficulty involved. Fortunately, the East Zone volunteers accepted this idea very willingly. We felt at ease because no rubbish was generated through the organising of this event.
Tzu Chi Volunteer Nancy Chew Ann Jee: It is our responsibility to promote both environmentalism and vegetarianism. While practising these ideas daily, we should overcome the challenges with courage and teamwork. Master Cheng Yen has reminded us, good deeds are not accomplished alone.
Although rejecting the use of disposable containers has created more inconvenience, volunteers are willing to walk the talk for a better Earth.
