Green Rules at Estonian Gymnastics Festival Spark Confusion Among Participants

The VII Estonian Gymnastics Festival, themed "Maaelu võlu" (The Charm of Rural Life), is taking place this weekend at Tallinn's Kalev Central Stadium. During the week, performers received information that gave the impression that plastic bags, disposable dishes, and plastic bottles were strictly forbidden. Some were even reprimanded for bringing a muesli bar in plastic wrapping or yogurt in a Tetra Pak.

Project manager Lembe Laas clarified that the situation was a misunderstanding and the guidelines were merely recommendations. "We suggested bringing food in reusable plastic containers, using metal spoons or other reusable utensils, and bringing a refillable water bottle," Laas explained. Posters at the stadium stating that security could deny entry to those with disposable containers have now been corrected with a large "recommended" note.

Kristiina Eelmaa from security company G4S confirmed that no one's food would be confiscated; security only reminds performers of the eco-friendly guidelines. The new rules also stem from past incidents. Two years ago, a group used plastic bags to make props, sparking criticism on social media, including from journalist Jaak Juske. Additionally, previous festivals saw many performers order food via delivery apps, leaving polystyrene containers that overflowed trash bins.

Laas emphasized that truly environmentally friendly events require encouraging reuse. "We're happy to guide our dear participants toward learning to use reusable containers. It's like in the store — you don't take carrots in a plastic bag when reusable produce bags are available," she said.