Macau IC2 association hosts green initiative for Earth Day

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

The event, themed “Planet vs. Plastic,” aimed to raise awareness about the impact of using disposable plastic utensils and similar tools on the environment. This year marked the fourth consecutive year that the association has hosted the green initiative.

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

The event started with a demonstration of pickleball, followed by a fashion show using recycled materials, a choral performance, and a green talk. All activities were planned and executed with the assistance of members from 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, an IC2 Association course instructor. 

“This event is actually their graduation project, and if they succeed, they graduate. If they don’t, they fail. It has 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 in protecting the environment, according to a press release from the hotel.

“It’s fantastic. It couldn’t be any better. It really aligns with our core values,” said Rutger Verschuren, Artyzen Area vice president. “We stand for art, culture, and heritage, but also inclusion. Today is all about inclusion, bringing the whole community together.”

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

“Our focus is on going green, and it’s not just because of legal requirements,” Verschuren added. “It aligns with our commitment to combating climate change and being more responsible for our planet.”

The Macau IC2 Association faces various challenges, such as the lack of government funding and a fixed location for their activities. However, the association remains determined to empower neurodivergent individuals and promote environmental awareness in the community.

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