Trinidad’s carnival, often hailed as “the greatest show on Earth,” is a vibrant spectacle of dazzling costumes and lively festivities. However, some aspects of this grand event are not environmentally friendly, with an estimated 3.4 tonnes of waste generated annually, as reported by local initiative Carnicycle, which strives to promote sustainability during the celebrations.
Founders Danii McLetchie and her team have been working tirelessly since 2018 to address the negative impact of carnival on the environment, acknowledging the significant carbon footprint associated with the production and disposal of costumes and materials used during the festivities. For instance, creating a single carnival costume bra can result in approximately 37.68kg (83lb) of CO2 emissions, according to calculations by Carnicycle using a tool from Swedish tech company Doconomy.
To combat this issue, Carnicycle has launched a recycling program that collects unused costumes that would otherwise be discarded or burned by masquerade bands after each year’s parade. With bins placed at various locations, including hotels, the initiative aims to reuse these costumes to reduce waste and emissions. Danii shared that up to 10,000 costume pieces have been salvaged, painstakingly sorted and preserved for future use.
In addition to recycling efforts, Carnicycle also offers a rental service for the elaborate backpack pieces commonly worn at Trinidad’s carnival. Priced at up to $700 (£550) depending on size, these pieces can be heavy and cumbersome for revelers. By renting out these backpacks, masqueraders can enjoy the decorative element without the physical strain, allowing them to pose for photos and partake in the parade comfortably.
Beyond Carnicycle, other individuals like lawyer Aliyah Clarke and fashion designer Kaleen Sanois have joined the movement towards eco-friendly celebrations. Through their business venture, 2nd Closet, they operate a pop-up thrift shop where pre-owned clothing is bought and sold. Additionally, they provide tips through video tutorials on transforming carnival costumes into versatile outfits suitable for various occasions.
Aliyah’s personal practice of repurposing her carnival costumes inspired the creation of “Tipsy Tuesday,” a segment in their video series offering innovative ideas for costume transformations. Alongside their closet-sorting service, where they help individuals declutter and identify items for resale, these initiatives aim to foster a more sustainable approach to carnival fashion and reduce the event’s environmental impact.
In a bustling city where music and carnival reign supreme, a unique collaboration has emerged between the world of entertainment and sustainability. Kaleen, a dedicated wardrobe organizer, found herself facing the daunting task of sorting through the eclectic closet of none other than Machel Montano, the revered “King of Soca.” Known for his vibrant performances and iconic style, Machel’s wardrobe held a treasure trove of memories tied to his illustrious career.
“Clothes hold a special significance, especially for someone like Machel, whose journey is intertwined with his wardrobe pieces,” Kaleen shared, reflecting on the personal connection individuals have with their attire.
2nd Closet, the team behind the meticulous organization of Machel’s shoes and outfits, orchestrated a remarkable two-day pop-up shop. This event offered avid fans a chance to own a piece of Machel’s stage presence, acquiring items that had graced his performances and music videos. Aliyah, a member of the team, recounted the excitement of fans poring over the second-hand treasures with reference photos in hand, seeking to capture a slice of Machel’s vibrant essence.
However, the sustainable efforts did not stop at recycling costumes and apparel. At the renowned Fete with the Saints celebration, hailed as a pinnacle of Trinidad’s carnival festivities, a conscious decision was made to embrace eco-friendliness in every aspect. From feasting with biodegradable wooden cutlery to sipping drinks from reusable cups, attendees were immersed in a greener carnival experience.
The organizers of Fete with the Saints, a fundraising event supporting one of Trinidad and Tobago’s esteemed secondary schools, took proactive steps to ensure waste management was prioritized. Employing “bin detectives” to guide patrons in segregating and disposing of their waste responsibly, the event saw a significant increase in recyclables collected compared to previous years.
Vandana Mangroo, co-founder of Close the Loop Caribbean, lauded the impact of these green initiatives, citing the diversion of over a million single-use plastics and five tonnes of glass from landfills in just three years. Collaborating with Fete with the Saints since 2023, Close the Loop Caribbean has been instrumental in fostering a more sustainable approach to the event.
Joseph Hadad, co-chairman of the organizing committee, acknowledged the additional costs and labor involved in making the event eco-friendly but remained steadfast in the belief that the endeavor was successful without dampening the festive spirit. The positive reception from guests like Roland Riley, who commended the initiative as a step in the right direction, highlighted the growing support for environmentally conscious practices in Trinidad’s carnival scene.
Amidst the vibrant rhythms and colorful festivities that define Trinidad’s carnival, a harmonious blend of music, culture, and sustainability is emerging. From the meticulous curation of a music icon’s wardrobe to the greening of a beloved carnival celebration, these initiatives showcase a newfound commitment to preserving the environment while celebrating the rich heritage of the Caribbean.
Witnessing the fusion of
