I recently returned from a vacation where I visited the African and South American continents. I had a fantastic time during my trip and experienced the amazing hospitality of the South African and Brazilian locals. I was treated like a King with endless kindness afforded to me, which made my trip so special.
However, one thing that became very apparent to me, was the difference between Australia and these two nations in environmental awareness and sustainable practices. I do understand that both South Africa and Brazil are developing countries and do not have the infrastructure that we do; but the disparity was startling. I will recount a few notable episodes:
In Sydney, I often see hybrids on the road – the Prius and hybrid Civic are commonplace. Where as when I noticed a Prius on the streets of Johannesburg and commented to my friend that there aren’t many on the road; he agreed and exclaimed no-one really drives hybrids. Now, I know you are thinking where would people get the money in a developing country to purchase a hybrid – however, there are a myriad of luxury vehicles on the roads there.
Another common theme in Africa was when I asked to not have a bag at supermarkets for my fruit, and was told emphatically that I had to have a plastic bag. When I explained and pleaded that I did not need a bag and that it was better for the environment; I was generally greeted by a dumbfounded assistant who again said they would not serve me without a bag, much to my dismay.
Recycling was another thing that I noticed is very different. For me recycling, is just an everyday part of life and has become habit (although I will say we are still far behind countries like Germany). Whilst in South Africa and Brazil, I experienced two events that shocked me. In South Africa at a friends house, I finished a drink and politely asked where I should put the bottle for recycling; I was then told “we don’t recycle here – unfortunately we have bigger problems to tackle.” I was left a bit dumbfounded by this comment even though I understand the challenges a developing nation faces.
Similar to this in Brazil, I enquired of a friend if they had recycling in their house, and with a sullen face they replied “we don’t have recycling here, I want to recycle but I have to drive 40 minutes by car across Rio de Janeiro to a private depot just to recycle, and I don’t drive so this is impossible.”
After these experiences, I became much more grateful for the simple ‘luxuries’ we have here in Australia like being able to recycle. But it raised one question for me, what would I do if I lived in a country where it wasn’t so easy?
Let me know your thoughts and leave a comment,
Landon
Todae Eco Store
