Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau and Macau IC2 Association jointly hosted the “World Earth Day” yesterday afternoon with the theme “From Pulp to Planet, Love Recycled”.
IC2 stands for “I Can Too” and is a non-profit group that, according to their Facebook page, is committed to promoting, advocating and enhancing the rights of people with disabilities. The group, according to multiple media outlets, is comprised of neurodivergent individuals.
Held for the fifth consecutive year, the Earth Day* event attracted over 250 participants and kicked off with a 1.5 kilometre “Green Walkathon” from the Macau Science Centre to Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau’s outdoor lawn, where the celebration continued with a short film created and screened by the association’s neurodivergent students, a pickleball demonstration, and a tree planting event, among other activities.
Rutger Verschuren, Area Vice President, Macau and Hengqin of Artyzen Hospitality Group and General Manager of Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau, spoke with the media yesterday afternoon and in a separate interview with the Post, noted that each year sees a theme related to the environment and sustainability.
This edition’s theme, according to a recent statement from the hotel operator, was geared towards promoting a deeper reflection on how paper products are consumed and discarded, and how repurposing even the simplest material can “spark community dialogue, inclusive creativity, and environmental action”.
Verschuren remarked on the work that the association has done as they try to make a difference and work hard towards giving something back to the community. And as co-organiser, Verschuren told the Post that the hotel aims to contribute and help them with their cause and reach their goals, as well as assist them to have a successful event.
Meanwhile, when asked by reporters if Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau has plans to work with other associations for similar future events, Verschuren noted that it has indeed. “This is our way of contributing. It’s not just about doing business… It’s also about giving things back for the community and being part of it”.
Verschuren added: “Many hoteliers start cheering when we make occupancy 100 percent… But having a successful day like this is much more meaningful than 100 percent occupancy in the hotel”.
*Earth Day is annually celebrated on April 22.
Guests and Macau IC2 Association members perform during the “World Earth Day” yesterday afternoon at the outdoor lawn of Artyzen Grand Lapa Macau in Nape, including Artyzen Grand Lapa Hotel chief Rutger Verschuren. – Photo: Rui Pastorin
