A 2015 report on plastic pollution by the Ocean Conservancy charity and the McKinsey Centre for Business and Environment ranked the Philippines as the third-largest source of discarded plastic that ends up in the ocean, behind China and Indonesia. A few years ago, the Ocean Conservancy singled out the Philippines as one of five countries where majority of plastics originate. Also on the list were China, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand.
The Philippines generates 2.7 million tonnes of plastic waste annually and 20 percent—or half a million tonnes—of that leaks into the oceans, the report stated. And with that, 200 marine species die from ingesting plastic bags and choking from them.
In the year 2000, the Philippine government passed Republic Act 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Despite the nationwide ban of plastic bags, the fight against it is still there due to the small businesses who still use these plastics.
Zero waste in the Philippines
Many people from other countries have practiced “Zero Waste.” But is it possible here in the Philippines?
“Zero Waste” is a movement to reduce the amount one consumes and consequently throws away. Adopting a Zero Waste lifestyle is one of the most sustainable ways of living. These choices influence all environmental areas by preventing resource extraction, reducing the amount of materials sent to the landfill or incinerator, and reducing pollution from producing, transporting or disposing of materials.
As Filipinos, we can ease the problem of marine pollution by joining the movement. Though it is often portrayed as inconvenient (like how making your own soap just may not be practical in your life, for example), it’s actually quite easy to start doing. Not only do you reduce waste but it can also be more affordable. Composting, buying second-hand, sharing when you can, or packing your own lunch are simple steps you can take toward the Zero Waste lifestyle--all while saving money too!
This sort of lifestyle is actually growing in the Philippines. Some schools have already started banning plastics, using wooden utensils or wooden chopsticks for take-out food, using paper cups, and segregating plastic bottles.
Going Zero Waste isn’t impossible here in the Philippines. With the proper passion and dedication, we can do this. Everyone has the power to join in the movement to beat the international threat of pollution.