THE Philippines produces 61,000 metric tons of solid waste every day, with plastic sachets, shopping bags, and thin-film bags mostly contributing to this problem, according to a report from the Department of Environment and Resources–Environmental Management Bureaus back in 2023.
DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga mentioned that 20% of these wastes find their way into the oceans.
With the extensive production and consumption of plastic waste, plastic pollution has become one of the biggest problems in the country. Not only does it clog landfills, and contaminates oceans, but plastics have also polluted the air.
In 2023, students from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, led by Rodolfo Romarate II and guided by Dr. Hernando Bacoso, PhD, discovered that microplastics are present in the air of Metro Manila.
Among the 17 Metro Manila Local Government Units (LGU), Mandaluyong and Muntinlupa have been identified as the areas with the most microplastics, while Malabon exhibits the least.
Microplastics are small particles of plastic, about less than five millimeters, posing a significant threat to all living organisms. The sharp microplastic particles, especially when inhaled and ingested, can cause health risks such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The alarming situation of plastic pollution in the country has had an exacerbating effect on wildlife, public health, and the environment because of the growing demand and use of plastics, especially single-use ones.
What experts say
In an exclusive interview with republicasia, Marian Ledesma, a zero-waste campaigner at Greenpeace Philippines, shared how bad the plastic pollution is in the country.
“Plastic pollution situation here in the country is quite devastating in the sense na it is consistently increasing over time due to the production and demand, particularly from businesses that are depending on single-use plastics,” Ledesma said.
However, she added that there are also “pockets of hope” as communities and local governments lead in developing solutions.
“I think the best ordinance other cities can really pattern or duplicate in their communities are the ones in Quezon City,” Ledesma explained.
Quezon City has developed refill systems with Greenpeace PH, aiming to replace sachets and single-use packages. This system requires consumers to bring their own containers to sari-sari stores that adopted the refill program.
The city also has an ordinance, banning single-use plastics, including take-out plastic bags in food and beverage establishments, groceries, malls, and hotels.
Ikot-ikot lang
The Philippines currently operates under a linear economy characterized by a “take-make-use-dispose” model. Transitioning to a circular economy focused on reducing waste through practices such as reusing, repairing, and recycling is one way to address the country’s pressing plastic pollution issues.
Extraction of natural resources, production of products, goods, and services, and the disposal of these products and goods are the three phases that we want to look at when talking about these economies as per Ledesma.
“Vital talaga ‘yong part of reducing the production and extraction na part of the cycle.” She explained. “For a slow circular economy, it is not just about eliminating the waste but it’s essentially reducing ‘yong very first phases of production and extraction.”
Ledesma further emphasizes that plastic pollution is not just an issue of waste but is intricately linked to broader environmental and social concerns.
“‘Yong connection ng plastic pollution to other environmental issues like climate change, or biodiversity loss, as well as interconnectedness din of plastic pollution to social issues like racism, or environmental injustices that are happening in communities na malaki ‘yung population for people of color, or ano ‘yung impact of plastic pollution on marginalized or vulnerable groups like fisherfolks or indigenous people, ay importante rin na they know about it,” She explained.
Transitioning to a circular economy requires systemic change, from policy shifts to changes in consumer behavior and corporate responsibility. Ledesma believes that this transformation is possible but emphasizes the need for education and public awareness.
“We [Greenpeace] want to show that there’s a full picture. We wanna show a full picture of the plastic crisis, not just the waste that we’re seeing in our communities or our environment. On a global level, we’re also engaging on a national global level, we’re also engaging on developing policies.” Ledesma told republicasia.
Go eco, go to eco-stores
One solution to this problem, and one example of the circular economy is the presence of eco-stores. However, establishing one is not easy, especially promoting it to the public whose majority is not in line with the advocacy.
Laarnie Rivera-Cancio, co-founder of Back to Basics Ecostore, shared their goal as a small business.
“Being in the business should be hopeful. Well, I am hopeful. The goal is to make it mainstream, ma-realize ng mga consumers na tayo rin ‘yon, na everything that we do has an impact, not only for the future generation, ” Rivera-Cancio said.
Rivera-Cancio stressed that what they want to promote is not really the products, but the zero-waste lifestyle and the propagation of knowledge on the plastic crisis and climate change.
“We want to promote knowledge because what you know, what you understand, you will really take it to heart and practice it.” Rivera-Cancio shared.
While it is hard for small businesses to make noise at first, if they have a strong purpose powered by their strong will to stand it, the message will surely reach the right people and translate them into actions.
If you want to do your monthly groceries and start your zero-waste lifestyle, here is a list of eco-stores and refilling stations that offer a wide variety of eco-friendly products sourced from sustainable and local suppliers that you can visit within Metro Manila:
- Back to Basics Ecostore at 30 Maginhawa St. Diliman, 1101, Quezon City, Metro Manila
- ECHOstore Podium at Unit 1B Ground Floor, Manhattan Square Condo 162 Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati City
- AKBAYANIHAN Ecostore at 84-M Matimtiman Street, Teachers Village East, Diliman, Quezon City
- Eco Shop PH I Zero Waste Ph at 12 Francisco St., Bagong Ilog, Pasig City
- Maginhawa eco-store at U.P. Village, Quezon City.
Note that if you visit these stores, you will have to bring your own containers, as they do not provide any single-use packages for their products.
If you are unable to make the trip and prefer a door-to-door service, Ecomove offers same-day delivery using bicycles and e-bikes, and they use compostable cassava pouches to protect and secure every package, which not only reduces waste but also helps minimize carbon footprint.
While these stores and services help provide people with alternatives, Ledesma emphasized the importance of its accessibility.
“Where they’re placed really matters. These options sana ay more accessible in barangays to also bring the options and alternative to the people instead of pumunta pa sila ng mga malls,” Ledesma shared.
Gen Zs take on plastic pollution
To gain deeper insights into the plastic pollution crisis, republicasia interviewed members of Gen Z to understand their perspectives on the issue.
Many Gen Z respondents pointed to the “tingi” culture as a major contributor to plastic pollution in the Philippines.
Rose Ann Talahuron, 22, shared her view: “Sa tingin ko, ang main causes ng plastic pollution sa Pilipinas ay improper waste management at ‘yung sobrang paggamit ng single-use plastics.”
Marc Owenne D. Garcia, 21, expressed similar sentiments: “I think the main causes of plastic pollution in the Philippines ay ang mataas na paggamit ng mga single-use plastic, tulad ng sachets, straw, at plastic bags.”
While consumer behavior is undeniably part of the problem, Ledesma from Greenpeace Philippines pointed out that the responsibility does not lie solely on individuals. Big corporations, A.K.A the big polluters, must be held accountable as well, along with the government for allowing them.
“Unfortunately, they just don’t have the options that are available to them. If consumers had a choice or had different options then the responsibilities wouldn’t be on them,” she said.
She added: “We really need government policies to motivate and also mandate businesses to shift away from plastics and at the same time, we need businesses to take action in the form of switching out or adapting these reuse and refill models or businesses to start phasing out single-use plastics and utilizing more reusable na mga materials in their operations.”
What can Gen Zs do?
Tackling the plastic pollution crisis—and holding governments and businesses accountable—won’t happen overnight. However, as the generation that represents a significant portion of the population, Gen Z has the power to make meaningful changes while waiting for larger systemic shifts.
According to experts from Greenpeace, here are practical steps you can take to help mitigate the problem:
- Use your power of choice
As many Gen Zs are now of age and wield consumer power, you have the ability to choose which products and companies to support.
Whenever possible, opt for brands that prioritize sustainability, reduce plastic packaging, and promote eco-friendly practices.
Similarly, boycott companies that continue to contribute to the plastic problem with excessive single-use packaging.
- Vote for government leaders who care
Government leaders play a critical role in shaping environmental policies.
When election season comes, take the time to research candidates and support those with strong, actionable plans to combat plastic pollution and protect the environment. Your vote can help put eco-conscious leaders in power who will push for meaningful change.
- Use your platforms as ‘digital natives’
Gen Z is the most digitally connected generation, so use social media with purpose.
Share accurate information about plastic pollution and highlight the urgency of the crisis. Raise awareness among your peers about the harmful impacts of single-use plastics and promote alternatives they can adopt. Every post, share, and like can help amplify the message.
- Choose sustainable transportation
If you have the means, switch to more sustainable forms of transportation like bicycles, e-bikes, or even walking.
While this may not be feasible for everyone, reducing reliance on vehicles that contribute to pollution is a significant way to lower your carbon footprint.
- Avoid single-use and throwaway products
Be mindful of what you consume.
Avoid disposable products like plastic cutlery, straws, and bags. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives like metal straws, eco-bags, and refillable containers.
Each small action adds up over time, reducing the amount of waste you contribute.
- Support local and sustainable products
Buy from local businesses that promote sustainable practices.
Local products often come with less packaging and a lower carbon footprint due to reduced transportation needs. Additionally, supporting small, eco-friendly businesses helps foster a culture of sustainability in the marketplace.
- Engage with your community
Get involved in community cleanups, environmental workshops, or zero-waste advocacy groups.
By engaging with like-minded individuals and sharing ideas, you can build momentum for change at the grassroots level. Community action can inspire more people to join the cause and push for larger-scale environmental reforms.
- Hold leaders and companies accountable
Speak up and demand accountability from both political leaders and major corporations. Keep a close watch on policies being proposed or passed, and push for stronger regulations to reduce plastic waste.
At the same time, call out big companies that are responsible for large amounts of plastic pollution. Your voice, along with others, can help drive the shift toward more sustainable practices.
Gen Z can definitely play an active role in reducing plastic waste and raising awareness by following these steps, while also applying pressure on larger institutions to implement lasting solutions.
To a plastic-free future
As you walk through the crowded streets of Metro Manila or stroll along the coastlines, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the sight of plastic waste piling up. But change, though gradual, is happening.
Every reusable bag carried, every plastic product refused, and every social media post shared is a small yet powerful step toward a cleaner future.
Gen Z, with its blend of awareness, digital fluency, and growing influence, holds so much power to shift the tide. While large corporations and governments must take responsibility, the collective action of individuals is already stirring conversations and sparking solutions.
The path to a plastic-free future might be long, but it begins with the everyday choices you make—ensuring that this problem does not just go in circles, but finally moves toward resolution.
With reports from Mayen Medroso, Ashly Mae Nabus, and Merry Nizza Llanto
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