Going green may be easier than it sounds to some, and more daunting in reality to others — but the big question is how sustainable living can be made practical, interactive and enjoyable for everyone, in order to be promoted successfully. So far, RQAM is checking all these boxes and more with exciting events to look forward to this Christmas, all while staying eco-friendly and contributing to a greater cause.
So what exactly is “going green”? It’s a gradual process changing your current lifestyle in favour of ecologically responsible habits. This be realised in several ways, including but not limited to:
And in the true spirit of a BayGreen Christmas, Marina Bay Link Mall, Marina Bay Financial Centre and One Raffles Quay will all be decked out in festive decorations made from repurposed and recyclable materials, in a bid to improve recycling rates and waste management. Free gifts that accompany customer purchases from retail stores won’t be using any single-use plastic or wrapping either.
This festive season, RQAM is also collaborating with tenants and other organizations to give back to the community and environment. For those on the lookout for Christmas gifts or decor with a personal touch, a handmade item is certainly the way to go. RQAM is teaming up with SG Enable, an organisation that focuses on empowering people with disabilities, to hold the Virtual i’mable Gift Market. Shoppers can look forward to a wide range of sustainable, handmade items for the perfect Christmas present made with utmost care, from jewellery to home decor and stationery all meticulously crafted by the lovely people at SG Enable. On top of getting the perfect present for yourself or your loved ones, all proceeds will go to charity to provide a brighter Christmas to those in need, while you enjoy 10% off merchandise by selected associations — it doesn’t get better than this! Further details can be found on BayPlay within the By The Bay App.
And if you’re hungry for more eco-friendly Christmas ideas, a great alternative to plastic wrappers is a beautiful piece of cotton fabric that doubles as a versatile addition to your gift, as your recipients can either re-gift it or use the fabric in a plethora of ways. This style of wrapping is also known as the Japanese art of furoshiki. Curious to learn more? Check out these simple tutorials for different ways to wrap up your items! A drawstring pouch also makes for another wonderful and hassle-free gift wrapping option that will be greatly appreciated.
Image: Joshua Lam
On the other hand, you can support local and sustainable makers that feature ethically made wrapping materials and gifts. The Virtual i’mable Gift Market is a great place to begin sourcing for all your ecological Christmas needs!
This December, several F&B outlets in MBLM, MBFC and ORQ are also giving you more reasons to cheer by offering discounts when you bring your own reusable tumbler or tupperware for takeaway orders, so don’t forget to bring yours along for your next lunch. That’s not all, you can enjoy a free coffee on Heybo (MBLM #B2-41/42) upon purchasing their collapsible cup, or a choice of free signature salad, wrap or grain bowl when you purchase SaladStop!’s (MBLM #B2-77/78) collapsible bowl. You save the earth and your wallet! Simply hop onto BayDine on the By The Bay App for a list of participating outlets.
Image: Muuse
On top of that, some F&B outlets in RQAM’s properties have collaborated with Muuse, an innovative system of reusable takeaway containers. Cafes partnered with Muuse provide customers with on-the-go food and drink, which will then be returned for washing instead of being disposed of. How nifty is that? That’s not all — a borrow and return pop-up booth is also set from 7 – 11 Dec at Marina Bay Link Mall atrium (next to Starbucks) from 11.30am – 2pm to further promote the utility of these reusables and excite everyone with convenient, guilt-free takeaway.
So join us in the festivities this holiday season as we celebrate by giving back to both the community and planet Earth. RQAM wishes all our tenants and shoppers a wonderful and BayGreen Christmas!