The #Trashtag challenge has been going viral in Nepal in the last few days. It’s an online challenge where people post pictures of themselves cleaning an area where trash is thrown. The challenge has been viral not only in Nepal but also all over the world. It has started cleaning the world one bag at a time. There is also a subreddit #trashtag which originally started the hashtag.
How did the #TrashTag challenge begin?
Although started back in 2015 by environment activist Steven Reinhold on Teton Gravity Research the #trashtag has resurfaced back to the online community because of Byron Roman. Posting in his facebook he encouraged youngsters to spend their passive time in doing something good for the environment.
His post alone has more than 37K shares. There are more than 24K post on Instagram with the #TrashTag to date.
The challenge has swept the nation as young people are starting to clean their areas and post their work in different social media. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are among the top social media platform where the challenge is going viral. Unlike other challenges the come and go this one seems to have a positive impact on the environment.
But there are safety concerns that come along with this challenge. Despite its favorable effects, some people have pointed out the hazards that come with this challenge.
Some of the safety concern include:
- Injuries
- Risk of infection
- Exposure to pollution and harmful gases from toxic waste
According to many health organizations, the needlestick injuries and inhalation of pathogenic can cause serious infections. If proper waste management is not in place in the area then simple exposure can cause infectious diseases. There are measures you can take to prevent yourself from any risk. Proper hygiene during and after cleaning can also prevent exposure from any diseases or injuries.
A few Tips:
- Always wear protected gloves and boots as the area may have glass or needles or any sharp unwanted materials that can cause severe cuts and bruises.
- Wash your hands properly with soap after any activity that includes touching the waste.
- Take proper equipment such as a stick with a sharp end, a shovel to pick up waste instead of your plain hands.
- Carry a hand sanitizer if access to water is limited
- Always use a mask and conceal your body if you have any cuts to prevent infection.
Doing something positive for the environment is good but you also have to take care of yourself doing the #Trashtag Challenge.