November 14; Manila, Philippines— A coalition of the nation’s largest environmental networks and organizations today urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to remain committed to its ambitious stance in the upcoming plastic treaty talks in Busan, Korea.

In a letter addressed to&nbsp;DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, the groups expressed support for the Philippines’ position on developing a strong and effective treaty that includes reduction in primary plastic polymer production, elimination of chemicals of concern in plastics, binding global requirements on product design, and accessible financing for implementation.&nbsp;

However, in the same letter, the groups also warned of potential attempts by polluters and powerful interests to weaken the government’s position. “While we support the Philippine delegation in championing an ambitious treaty, we are also prepared to expose and oppose any reversal or weakening of positions that would infringe on&nbsp; the rights of Filipinos to health and to a balanced and healthful ecology,“ the groups cautioned.

“We hope the&nbsp; Philippine government will not succumb to these pressures or backslide from&nbsp; its previously stated positions. We will support our country's delegation but will also not hesitate to expose backsliding in the service of polluters,” said&nbsp;Von Hernandez of Break Free From Plastic.

In earlier rounds of negotiations, the Philippines has been touted as one of the progressive advocates for a strong, high ambition, science-based plastics treaty. The Philippine delegation has been one of the most vocal supporters of a treaty that includes global reduction of primary plastic polymers and in addressing pollution across the full life cycle of plastics. This also aligns with the findings of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/press/63457/survey-filipinos-most-in-favor-of-global-cut-in-plastic-production/" target="_blank">survey</a>&nbsp;conducted by Greenpeace and Censuswide earlier this year, which found that 94% of Filipinos support an ambitious global plastics treaty that would mandate cuts in global plastic production.&nbsp;

Nine (9)&nbsp; out of ten (10) Filipinos also support&nbsp; bans on single use plastics&nbsp; according to the same poll.&nbsp; 90% of greenhouse gas emissions from plastics are released during&nbsp; production processes including the extraction of&nbsp;fossil fuels used in making plastics and the widespread use of single use plastics (SUPs). Taken together,&nbsp; the unabated global production and use of plastics present financial risks to governments, threaten human health, degrade ecosystems, and aggravate the climate crisis.&nbsp;

This national position has been supported by the environmental groups who also wanted the government to intensify support for prioritizing upstream measures such as reuse-and-refill models and safer product design, while opposing greenwashing technologies and systems. The groups also asked the Philippine delegation to support just transition to ensure that waste workers, women and youth, indigenous peoples, workers, and other vulnerable sectors do not bear the burden of a transition away from plastics.&nbsp;

“The final round of the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations is a critical juncture for the Philippines and nations on the frontlines of plastic pollution,” said&nbsp;Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner of Greenpeace Philippines. “A strong treaty is not just a necessity; it’s a lifeline to protect the people and the planet. A weak treaty—without measures to reduce plastic production and phase out harmful plastics and chemicals of concern — leaves Filipinos facing greater harm. People need a treaty that drives ambition, robust policies and concrete actions across the plastic lifecycle, as this is our once-in-a-generation chance to finally end plastic pollution on a global scale.”

Jam Lorenzo, Research and Policy Development Head of group BAN Toxics&nbsp;also calls on the Philippine government to continue its stand as a progressive voice in the negotiations for the Global Plastics Treaty. “In previous INC meetings, the Philippines has advocated for the protection of human health and the environment. With the fifth INC meeting happening in a few weeks, it is important that the country remains firm with its positions on supporting production reduction, just transition, and the adoption of global transparency requirements — critical components to ensure that the GPT becomes effective.”

“It is high time for the Government to address the country's looming plastic pollution that adversely affects our people's health and the environment,” said&nbsp;Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition.&nbsp;“We need a stronger country position that will&nbsp;prioritize health, justice, and sustainability over the business as usual norms. Prevent plastic pollution at source, impose a cap on plastic production, ban single-use plastics, and invest in reuse and refill solutions.”

The negotiations for a plastics treaty has reached a crucial point where countries race against time with the deadline looming. From November 25 to December 1, 2024, the Philippines, along with other U.N. member-states will gather in Busan, South Korea for the fifth — and supposedly last — round of meetings of the International Negotiating Committee (INC-5) for a global plastics treaty.&nbsp;

The Philippine delegation to INC-5, headed by the DENR, includes representatives from various government agencies and experts from civil society.

The letter to the DENR may be accessed through this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/2024/11/14/ph-groups-inc-joint-letter-to-denr/" target="_blank">link</a>

November 14; Manila, Philippines— A coalition of the nation’s largest environmental networks and organizations today urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to remain committed to its ambitious stance in the upcoming plastic treaty talks in Busan, Korea.In a letter addressed to&nbsp;DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, the groups expressed support for the Philippines’ position on developing a strong and effective treaty that includes reduction in primary plastic polymer production, elimination of chemicals of concern in plastics, binding global requirements on product design, and accessible financing for implementation.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/98135906-77c8-4783-adf0-a7267e273300/public" alt="© Greenpeace / Matthew Kemp" />However, in the same letter, the groups also warned of potential attempts by polluters and powerful interests to weaken the government’s position. “While we support the Philippine delegation in championing an ambitious treaty, we are also prepared to expose and oppose any reversal or weakening of positions that would infringe on&nbsp; the rights of Filipinos to health and to a balanced and healthful ecology,“ the groups cautioned.“We hope the&nbsp; Philippine government will not succumb to these pressures or backslide from&nbsp; its previously stated positions. We will support our country's delegation but will also not hesitate to expose backsliding in the service of polluters,” said&nbsp;Von Hernandez of Break Free From Plastic.In earlier rounds of negotiations, the Philippines has been touted as one of the progressive advocates for a strong, high ambition, science-based plastics treaty. The Philippine delegation has been one of the most vocal supporters of a treaty that includes global reduction of primary plastic polymers and in addressing pollution across the full life cycle of plastics. This also aligns with the findings of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/press/63457/survey-filipinos-most-in-favor-of-global-cut-in-plastic-production/" target="_blank">survey</a>&nbsp;conducted by Greenpeace and Censuswide earlier this year, which found that 94% of Filipinos support an ambitious global plastics treaty that would mandate cuts in global plastic production.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/c6b9e810-a9d8-48b3-7700-d6802ab88f00/public" alt="© Ben Sarten / Greenpeace" />Nine (9)&nbsp; out of ten (10) Filipinos also support&nbsp; bans on single use plastics&nbsp; according to the same poll.&nbsp; 90% of greenhouse gas emissions from plastics are released during&nbsp; production processes including the extraction of&nbsp;fossil fuels used in making plastics and the widespread use of single use plastics (SUPs). Taken together,&nbsp; the unabated global production and use of plastics present financial risks to governments, threaten human health, degrade ecosystems, and aggravate the climate crisis.&nbsp;This national position has been supported by the environmental groups who also wanted the government to intensify support for prioritizing upstream measures such as reuse-and-refill models and safer product design, while opposing greenwashing technologies and systems. The groups also asked the Philippine delegation to support just transition to ensure that waste workers, women and youth, indigenous peoples, workers, and other vulnerable sectors do not bear the burden of a transition away from plastics.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/f81dba21-ec54-4ff0-b86b-986539406000/public" alt="© Greenpeace" />“The final round of the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations is a critical juncture for the Philippines and nations on the frontlines of plastic pollution,” said&nbsp;Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner of Greenpeace Philippines. “A strong treaty is not just a necessity; it’s a lifeline to protect the people and the planet. A weak treaty—without measures to reduce plastic production and phase out harmful plastics and chemicals of concern — leaves Filipinos facing greater harm. People need a treaty that drives ambition, robust policies and concrete actions across the plastic lifecycle, as this is our once-in-a-generation chance to finally end plastic pollution on a global scale.”Jam Lorenzo, Research and Policy Development Head of group BAN Toxics&nbsp;also calls on the Philippine government to continue its stand as a progressive voice in the negotiations for the Global Plastics Treaty. “In previous INC meetings, the Philippines has advocated for the protection of human health and the environment. With the fifth INC meeting happening in a few weeks, it is important that the country remains firm with its positions on supporting production reduction, just transition, and the adoption of global transparency requirements — critical components to ensure that the GPT becomes effective.”“It is high time for the Government to address the country's looming plastic pollution that adversely affects our people's health and the environment,” said&nbsp;Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition.&nbsp;“We need a stronger country position that will&nbsp;prioritize health, justice, and sustainability over the business as usual norms. Prevent plastic pollution at source, impose a cap on plastic production, ban single-use plastics, and invest in reuse and refill solutions.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/322476ad-d159-40ce-b5f5-4c44339e2900/public" alt="© Daniel Müller / Greenpeace" />The negotiations for a plastics treaty has reached a crucial point where countries race against time with the deadline looming. From November 25 to December 1, 2024, the Philippines, along with other U.N. member-states will gather in Busan, South Korea for the fifth — and supposedly last — round of meetings of the International Negotiating Committee (INC-5) for a global plastics treaty.&nbsp;The Philippine delegation to INC-5, headed by the DENR, includes representatives from various government agencies and experts from civil society.###Note to the editor:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The letter to the DENR may be accessed through this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/2024/11/14/ph-groups-inc-joint-letter-to-denr/" target="_blank">link</a>

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

Civil Society Groups Urge Gov’t to Keep High Ambition in Plastics Treaty Talks

QUEZON CITY, Philippines (29 October 2024) — As the world gears up for the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee[1] to develop a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty, the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty has signed[2] the 'Bridge to Busan' declaration. This move, supported by over 250 businesses and institutions, calls for addressing the full lifecycle of plastics, including limiting the production of primary plastic polymers.[3]

Greenpeace Philippines welcomed the coalition’s declaration but emphasized that the key to solving the plastic pollution crisis lies in both public policy and concrete actions from businesses. Major corporations like Unilever, Nestle, Coca Cola, and PepsiCo—all of whom are members of the coalition—are among the world’s biggest producers of single-use plastics. Companies must drastically reduce plastic production, particularly sachets which compose 52% of the residual plastic waste stream in the Philippines and are a significant source of pollution.

"We need more than just signatures to this declaration," said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. "Many of these corporations have failed to meet voluntary commitments before, allowing plastic production and the flood of plastic waste to rise. We call on them to immediately implement changes in their operations and commit to drastically cutting plastic production, especially single-use plastics, which are harming our environment and communities."

For Greenpeace, true sustainability requires more ambitious action, including the phase out of single-use plastics like sachets and a 75% reduction in plastic production to stay below the critical 1.5°C global warming threshold. 

"As 99% of single-use plastics are made from fossil fuels, achieving a 75% reduction is crucial in keeping our climate goals. Doing so would contribute to mitigating the climate crisis," Ledesma added.

"Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) in the Philippines under the 'Champions of Change' initiative[4] are currently calling for a strong Global Plastics Treaty. They’re living proof that a future free from single-use plastics is possible. It’s time for big corporations to follow suit, take a stronger stand and remove these plastics from their operations. Not only will such a treaty help the environment, but it'll also empower businesses to innovate and thrive in a market increasingly focused on sustainability.”

[1] The <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-5">fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5)</a> aims to develop an international legally binding instrument, or treaty, on plastic pollution. This is scheduled to take place from November 25 to December 1, 2024 at Busan, South Korea.

[2] <a href="https://www.businessforplasticstreaty.org/latest/bridge-to-busan">The Business Coalition signs the ‘Bridge to Busan’ declaration</a>

[3] The <a href="https://www.bridgetobusan.com/">Bridge to Busan</a> pertains to a declaration of undersigned members of the INC who are committed to ending plastic pollution worldwide. This supports the inclusion of provisions in addressing the production of primary plastic polymers in the Global Plastics Treaty.

[4] ‘<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/press/67241/going-green-msmes-commit-to-go-plastic-free-ties-up-with-greenpeace-and-dti-ncro/">Going green’: MSMEs commit to go plastic-free, ties up with Greenpeace and DTI-NCRO</a>

For Greenpeace, true sustainability requires more ambitious action, including the phase out of single-use plastics like sachets and a 75% reduction in plastic production to stay below the critical 1.5°C global warming threshold. QUEZON CITY, Philippines (29 October 2024) — As the world gears up for the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee[1] to develop a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty, the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty has signed[2] the 'Bridge to Busan' declaration. This move, supported by over 250 businesses and institutions, calls for addressing the full lifecycle of plastics, including limiting the production of primary plastic polymers.[3]Greenpeace Philippines welcomed the coalition’s declaration but emphasized that the key to solving the plastic pollution crisis lies in both public policy and concrete actions from businesses. Major corporations like Unilever, Nestle, Coca Cola, and PepsiCo—all of whom are members of the coalition—are among the world’s biggest producers of single-use plastics. Companies must drastically reduce plastic production, particularly sachets which compose 52% of the residual plastic waste stream in the Philippines and are a significant source of pollution."We need more than just signatures to this declaration," said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. "Many of these corporations have failed to meet voluntary commitments before, allowing plastic production and the flood of plastic waste to rise. We call on them to immediately implement changes in their operations and commit to drastically cutting plastic production, especially single-use plastics, which are harming our environment and communities."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/4694fb10-7239-4fc8-7884-451828463a00/public" alt="© Biel Calderon / Greenpeace" />For Greenpeace, true sustainability requires more ambitious action, including the phase out of single-use plastics like sachets and a 75% reduction in plastic production to stay below the critical 1.5°C global warming threshold. "As 99% of single-use plastics are made from fossil fuels, achieving a 75% reduction is crucial in keeping our climate goals. Doing so would contribute to mitigating the climate crisis," Ledesma added."Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) in the Philippines under the 'Champions of Change' initiative[4] are currently calling for a strong Global Plastics Treaty. They’re living proof that a future free from single-use plastics is possible. It’s time for big corporations to follow suit, take a stronger stand and remove these plastics from their operations. Not only will such a treaty help the environment, but it'll also empower businesses to innovate and thrive in a market increasingly focused on sustainability.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/aa848634-3a03-4fa4-0958-c9b1038eea00/public" alt="© Greenpeace / Grace Duran-Cabus" />###Notes to editors:[1] The <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-5">fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5)</a> aims to develop an international legally binding instrument, or treaty, on plastic pollution. This is scheduled to take place from November 25 to December 1, 2024 at Busan, South Korea.[2] <a href="https://www.businessforplasticstreaty.org/latest/bridge-to-busan">The Business Coalition signs the ‘Bridge to Busan’ declaration</a>[3] The <a href="https://www.bridgetobusan.com/">Bridge to Busan</a> pertains to a declaration of undersigned members of the INC who are committed to ending plastic pollution worldwide. This supports the inclusion of provisions in addressing the production of primary plastic polymers in the Global Plastics Treaty.[4] ‘<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/press/67241/going-green-msmes-commit-to-go-plastic-free-ties-up-with-greenpeace-and-dti-ncro/">Going green’: MSMEs commit to go plastic-free, ties up with Greenpeace and DTI-NCRO</a>

For Greenpeace, true sustainability requires more ambitious action, including the phase out of single-use plastics like sachets and a 75% reduction in plastic production to stay below the critical 1.5°C global warming threshold.

Greenpeace statement on int’l business coalition support for 'Bridge to Busan'

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) may seem miniscule, but a growing number of them are determined to show larger companies that greening the manufacturing and retail sector should be everyone's business.&nbsp;

In an event titled "Reduce, Reuse, Refill: 3Rs to End Plastic Pollution," environmental advocates, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and progressive business groups enjoined other MSMEs to reduce their production and consumption of single-use plastics (SUPs) and adopt more sustainable practices. Said initiative aims to build the capacity of MSMEs to lead the shift toward environmentally responsible business operations.

This brought MSMEs to the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) for a field immersion and discussion on Tuesday. The LPPWP, which is home to over 41 migratory bird species and the threatened and endemic Philippine duck,[1]&nbsp;faces severe threats from plastic pollution. The activity sought to raise awareness among local businesses about the destructive impact of SUPs on ecosystems and communities.&nbsp;

"Small businesses are doing their part in decreasing reliance on single-use plastics, and are proving that it is possible,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. “There’s no excuse for major corporations not to follow suit.”

MSMEs comprise 99.59% of all business establishments in the Philippines.[2]&nbsp;According to Ledesma, the potential behind their considerable numbers play a pivotal role in sparking changes in the industry. “This includes transitioning prevailing business models away from SUPs and influencing consumers in their respective communities,” she continued.

Participants in the event included fisherfolk, community members, and waste workers who shared firsthand experiences of how plastic pollution affects food security, environment and livelihood. Over 164 million plastic sachets and 57 million shopping bags are discarded every day[3]&nbsp;in the Philippines and much of which are not recycled.[4]&nbsp;Instead, they end up in landfills or waterways, contributing to pollution and the climate crisis.

“Sinisira [ng mga plastic] ang aming mga gamit pangingisda at itinataboy ang mga isda sa malayo. Dagdag perwisyo sa panggastos sa gasolina. Natatabunan at pinapatay [nito] ang mga bahay itlugan, bahura, bakawanan, at mga halamang dagat,” shared PANGISDA Pilipinas Chair Pablo “Ka Pabs” Rosales.

“Nanawagan kami sa ating makakalikasang mga negosyante, na pangunahan ang pag-iwas sa… single-use plastic na siyang pinakamarami sa karagatan at kalat sa kapaligiran. Suportahan ang pagsisikap ng mangingisda na linisin ang baybayin at karagatan para sa pagpapanumbalik ng kasaganaan at luntiang kapaligiran.”

Upstream solutions such as reduction, reuse and refill are aligned with the DTI's Green Economic Development program. These approaches aim to enhance MSME competitiveness by helping businesses adopt climate-smart, environmental-friendly, and inclusive strategies.

"Sustainability is our only option for a better tomorrow; it is a crucial aspect of business resilience and long-term success," said DTI-National Capital Region OIC-Regional Director Winston T. Singun. "There are no businesses to speak of in an inhospitable future, plagued with various environmental crises. MSMEs have the power to make a positive impact not only in our economy, but also our planet."

Following the nature walk were sustainability discussions in Talyer 15 at the Henry Hotel Compound for discussions led by business owners championing sustainable plastic reduction efforts. The session featured entrepreneurs and communities who have successfully employed viable, practical, and innovative alternatives to plastic use, paving the way for a just zero waste transition.

Leading the charge in the “Greening Your Business” discussions are speakers from Back to Basics Ecostore, Newport World Resorts, San Juan Resort Restaurant and Hotel Association (La Union) and Rizza Lana Sebastian. The panelists shared their expertise on how to "green" the supply chain, how to reduce plastics in tourism, and how to practice sustainable communications. Reuse and refill solutions such as those applied by Kuha sa Tingi[5]&nbsp;(Greenpeace Philippines), JuanaZero[6]&nbsp;(Mother Earth Foundation), Sabon Express, and Good Food Community were also tackled to mitigate the crisis.

Greenpeace Philippines is optimistic that more MSMEs take part in interventions that address plastic pollution at the source. A number of attendees have expressed their willingness to break free from plastic and be a part of community-driven solutions that help create a zero-waste system.

The field immersion and sustainability discussion is an initiative under&nbsp;Champions of Change, a growing global collective of forward-thinking businesses committed to transitioning towards a plastic-free future.&nbsp;

[1]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3641383579312578&amp;id=262766670507636&amp;set=a.262773750506928&amp;locale=is_IS" target="_blank">LPPWP as 6th&nbsp;Ramsar Site in the Philippines</a>

[2]&nbsp;<a href="https://dtiwebfiles.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/MSME+Resources/2022+Philippine+MSME+Statistics+in+Brief.pdf" target="_blank">2022 Philippine MSME Statistics in Brief</a>

[3]&nbsp;<a href="https://no-burn.mystagingwebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Sachet-Economy-spread-.pdf" target="_blank">Sachet Economy: Big Problems in Small Packets</a>

[4]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.1700782" target="_blank">Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made</a>

[5]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/act/plastic-free-future/reuse-and-refill/" target="_blank">REUSE AND REFILL for a Plastic-Free Future</a>

[6]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/2020/10/20/juanazero-zero-waste-store-mother-earth-foundation/" target="_blank">JUANAZERO: A Zero Waste store of Mother Earth Foundation</a> Please credit the photos to: Jilson Tiu / Greenpeace

Here’s what the Champions of Change have to say:

“With plastic pollution, there's the obvious issue that it can harm certain marine animals, especially turtles. There have been a lot of studies showing that plastics, especially when they break down into microplastics, can actually threaten coral populations. I think that's why it's really important for us to fight against plastic pollution because they affect the entire marine ecosystem.”&nbsp;— Denise Sze, Marketing Executive of Magwai

"From the mountains of plastic in our cities to the microplastics that are now everywhere, we are causing serious health consequences from chemicals that leach into our waterways. Committing to a plastic-free future is a really important thing. We just need to make that decision on what kind of infrastructure and what kind of culture we need to support this commitment. These are really exciting ways of working with the community so that we can make this happen."&nbsp;— Charlene Tan, Founder &amp; CEO of Good Food Community

"Lagi lang po natin isipin na isa lang naman talaga ang mundo. Hindi tayo pwede magkaroon ng satellite earth or another earth. And ‘yung mga plastic na basura na itinatapon natin in this lifetime, it would take 400 to 500 years to decompose. So, siguro po yung isapuso lang po natin at isaisip yung katotohanan na yan. Siguro ‘yun po ‘yung magda-drive sa ating lahat [para ilaban ang pagbabago]."&nbsp;— Mellany Zambrano, Founder &amp; CEO of Sabon Express

"So with this Global [Plastics] Treaty, what is more exciting about it is the fact that it's looking at the end-to-end supply chain for plastic. It's not just looking at waste management... It's looking at the producers... They're looking not just to penalize the end, but reduce the demand. From the treaty, I want to see more responsibility going back on those companies that are producing plastic bottles."&nbsp;— Rob Boreham, Managing Director of Hospitality Innovations by Quorate Inc.

"Small businesses are doing their part in decreasing reliance on single-use plastics, and are proving that it is possible,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. “There’s no excuse for major corporations not to follow suit.” QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) may seem miniscule, but a growing number of them are determined to show larger companies that greening the manufacturing and retail sector should be everyone's business.&nbsp;In an event titled "Reduce, Reuse, Refill: 3Rs to End Plastic Pollution," environmental advocates, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and progressive business groups enjoined other MSMEs to reduce their production and consumption of single-use plastics (SUPs) and adopt more sustainable practices. Said initiative aims to build the capacity of MSMEs to lead the shift toward environmentally responsible business operations.This brought MSMEs to the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) for a field immersion and discussion on Tuesday. The LPPWP, which is home to over 41 migratory bird species and the threatened and endemic Philippine duck,[1]&nbsp;faces severe threats from plastic pollution. The activity sought to raise awareness among local businesses about the destructive impact of SUPs on ecosystems and communities.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/c6f84019-0fd0-4fd6-78a4-d375098cab00/public" alt="Participants walking through the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/535db359-c3f6-45b8-23c3-3e09daffc200/public" alt="A dog is seen through a pile of plastics along the shores of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/56edb682-58ea-45ca-bb15-dca7e1dfc900/public" alt="Single-use plastics are seen littering the mangroves of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" />"Small businesses are doing their part in decreasing reliance on single-use plastics, and are proving that it is possible,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. “There’s no excuse for major corporations not to follow suit.”MSMEs comprise 99.59% of all business establishments in the Philippines.[2]&nbsp;According to Ledesma, the potential behind their considerable numbers play a pivotal role in sparking changes in the industry. “This includes transitioning prevailing business models away from SUPs and influencing consumers in their respective communities,” she continued.Participants in the event included fisherfolk, community members, and waste workers who shared firsthand experiences of how plastic pollution affects food security, environment and livelihood. Over 164 million plastic sachets and 57 million shopping bags are discarded every day[3]&nbsp;in the Philippines and much of which are not recycled.[4]&nbsp;Instead, they end up in landfills or waterways, contributing to pollution and the climate crisis.“Sinisira [ng mga plastic] ang aming mga gamit pangingisda at itinataboy ang mga isda sa malayo. Dagdag perwisyo sa panggastos sa gasolina. Natatabunan at pinapatay [nito] ang mga bahay itlugan, bahura, bakawanan, at mga halamang dagat,” shared PANGISDA Pilipinas Chair Pablo “Ka Pabs” Rosales.“Nanawagan kami sa ating makakalikasang mga negosyante, na pangunahan ang pag-iwas sa… single-use plastic na siyang pinakamarami sa karagatan at kalat sa kapaligiran. Suportahan ang pagsisikap ng mangingisda na linisin ang baybayin at karagatan para sa pagpapanumbalik ng kasaganaan at luntiang kapaligiran.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/b6d73cc9-7e6d-4b9f-9344-ca18a38df800/public" alt="PANGISDA Pilipinas Chair Pablo “Ka Pabs” Rosales.&nbsp;(Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" />Upstream solutions such as reduction, reuse and refill are aligned with the DTI's Green Economic Development program. These approaches aim to enhance MSME competitiveness by helping businesses adopt climate-smart, environmental-friendly, and inclusive strategies."Sustainability is our only option for a better tomorrow; it is a crucial aspect of business resilience and long-term success," said DTI-National Capital Region OIC-Regional Director Winston T. Singun. "There are no businesses to speak of in an inhospitable future, plagued with various environmental crises. MSMEs have the power to make a positive impact not only in our economy, but also our planet."Following the nature walk were sustainability discussions in Talyer 15 at the Henry Hotel Compound for discussions led by business owners championing sustainable plastic reduction efforts. The session featured entrepreneurs and communities who have successfully employed viable, practical, and innovative alternatives to plastic use, paving the way for a just zero waste transition.Leading the charge in the “Greening Your Business” discussions are speakers from Back to Basics Ecostore, Newport World Resorts, San Juan Resort Restaurant and Hotel Association (La Union) and Rizza Lana Sebastian. The panelists shared their expertise on how to "green" the supply chain, how to reduce plastics in tourism, and how to practice sustainable communications. Reuse and refill solutions such as those applied by Kuha sa Tingi[5]&nbsp;(Greenpeace Philippines), JuanaZero[6]&nbsp;(Mother Earth Foundation), Sabon Express, and Good Food Community were also tackled to mitigate the crisis.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/2b0779b0-943e-48ec-40a2-3c9b7a4d6600/public" alt="Rizza Lana, entrepreneur and sustainability advocate. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/f684b047-ec64-4695-a46f-c36b70030000/public" alt="Rap Villavicencio, Mother Earth Foundation. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/0319e34b-8371-4fd9-7fac-d854b0d56b00/public" alt="Mellany Zambrano, Mellany Zambrano, Founder &amp; CEO of Sabon Express. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/c2f4b381-d4af-4713-8077-27be12567400/public" alt="Ryna Inocencio, Director for Risk Management at Newport World Resorts. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/e53a827a-5fe0-48a5-9391-aa11d58c7d00/public" alt="Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines. (Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" />Greenpeace Philippines is optimistic that more MSMEs take part in interventions that address plastic pollution at the source. A number of attendees have expressed their willingness to break free from plastic and be a part of community-driven solutions that help create a zero-waste system.The field immersion and sustainability discussion is an initiative under&nbsp;Champions of Change, a growing global collective of forward-thinking businesses committed to transitioning towards a plastic-free future.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/4b1f2f98-1754-4ac6-920a-306e788ed100/public" alt="(Jilson Tiu/Greenpeace)" />Notes to editors:[1]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3641383579312578&amp;id=262766670507636&amp;set=a.262773750506928&amp;locale=is_IS" target="_blank">LPPWP as 6th&nbsp;Ramsar Site in the Philippines</a>[2]&nbsp;<a href="https://dtiwebfiles.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/MSME+Resources/2022+Philippine+MSME+Statistics+in+Brief.pdf" target="_blank">2022 Philippine MSME Statistics in Brief</a>[3]&nbsp;<a href="https://no-burn.mystagingwebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Sachet-Economy-spread-.pdf" target="_blank">Sachet Economy: Big Problems in Small Packets</a>[4]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.1700782" target="_blank">Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made</a>[5]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/act/plastic-free-future/reuse-and-refill/" target="_blank">REUSE AND REFILL for a Plastic-Free Future</a>[6]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/2020/10/20/juanazero-zero-waste-store-mother-earth-foundation/" target="_blank">JUANAZERO: A Zero Waste store of Mother Earth Foundation</a> Please credit the photos to: Jilson Tiu / Greenpeace<h2>Here’s what the Champions of Change have to say:</h2>“With plastic pollution, there's the obvious issue that it can harm certain marine animals, especially turtles. There have been a lot of studies showing that plastics, especially when they break down into microplastics, can actually threaten coral populations. I think that's why it's really important for us to fight against plastic pollution because they affect the entire marine ecosystem.”&nbsp;— Denise Sze, Marketing Executive of Magwai"From the mountains of plastic in our cities to the microplastics that are now everywhere, we are causing serious health consequences from chemicals that leach into our waterways. Committing to a plastic-free future is a really important thing. We just need to make that decision on what kind of infrastructure and what kind of culture we need to support this commitment. These are really exciting ways of working with the community so that we can make this happen."&nbsp;— Charlene Tan, Founder &amp; CEO of Good Food Community"Lagi lang po natin isipin na isa lang naman talaga ang mundo. Hindi tayo pwede magkaroon ng satellite earth or another earth. And ‘yung mga plastic na basura na itinatapon natin in this lifetime, it would take 400 to 500 years to decompose. So, siguro po yung isapuso lang po natin at isaisip yung katotohanan na yan. Siguro ‘yun po ‘yung magda-drive sa ating lahat [para ilaban ang pagbabago]."&nbsp;— Mellany Zambrano, Founder &amp; CEO of Sabon Express"So with this Global [Plastics] Treaty, what is more exciting about it is the fact that it's looking at the end-to-end supply chain for plastic. It's not just looking at waste management... It's looking at the producers... They're looking not just to penalize the end, but reduce the demand. From the treaty, I want to see more responsibility going back on those companies that are producing plastic bottles."&nbsp;— Rob Boreham, Managing Director of Hospitality Innovations by Quorate Inc.

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‘Going green’: MSMEs commit to go plastic-free, ties up with Greenpeace and DTI-NCR

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Greenpeace is a community united by a mission to protect the planet and ensure a green, peaceful future. They’ve led the fight against environmental destruction, advocating for the planet’s rights as part of a global movement that challenges power with courage.