Trash Talk

Here is a crude metaphor: Trash is like HIV, it’s all over the world and is impossible to cure. The only feasible answer? Prevention.

 In the past few months I have visited several communities to discuss trash management. Most communities burn or bury their trash and since there are very limited alternatives, we discuss ways that burning or burying could be done in a more environmental and health conscience manner. Some examples:

Don’t burn your trash at the hottest part of the day or when kids are close

Don’t bury trash close to the river

It is important to separate your trash before burning to avoid hazardous chemical reactions

We also talk about trash incinerators- large tin cans where trash can be burned. It traps in toxic smoke and burns trash at a faster rate. 


 I have visited 4 different communities but what has sparked the most interest in every community has been recycled artisan. We have made bracelets and purses out of plastic cookie wrappers and soda pop tabs. We have made jewelry out of magazines, and purses out of plastic bags. Panamanians are very talented and have a natural hand for artisan work (most souvenirs are handmade) so it was easy for them to pick up. PLUS there is little to no cost since we are just reusing our own trash! When  I made the recycled artisan charla in Santa Marta, I expected it to last no more than an hour. But surprisingly, people stayed for over 5 hours, men women and children practicing. What I was most proud of was when the trash I had brought ran out, kids when running to voluntarily look for more trash to keep practicing! There was an artisan group in the past, but due to corruption it no longer exists. Who knows if Santa Marta will start a new group or even continue thinking about trash. However, I can say that during this day I saw collaboration and heard ideas of team work and participatory action. I cannot force the community to have a group but I hope to inspire them to continue thinking about trash management and artisan work

bracelet from cookie wrappers

jewelry from soda pop tabs

purse croched from plastic bags