SOLID WASTES. A portion of the 8.4 metric tons of plastic waste collected from residents in 15 localities across La Union. (Photo courtesy of the provincial government of La Union)
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan — The provincial government of La Union has collected 8.4 metric tons of plastic waste from residents across 15 localities.
The action was done through its “Trash to Goods Program” where plastic waste is exchanged for canned goods.
Of the total waste gathered, 4.4 metric tons were polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, while 3.9 metric tons were mixed plastics.
These items were exchanged for over 175 boxes of canned goods.
The initiative was led by the Provincial Government-Environment and Natural Resources Office (PG-ENRO) in partnership with HOPE Business for Good and Century Tuna.
It aims to promote responsible waste management and environmental sustainability through recycling.
Launched in April 2023, the program encourages residents to trade recyclable items like plastic bottles, tarpaulins, and styrofoam for canned goods, with exchanges based on weight.
The activity is conducted annually in designated locations.
“This program ensures that waste materials are reintegrated into the economy, instead of being discarded, ensuring sustainability and solid waste reduction,” Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David said in a statement on Wednesday.
“This also proves the strength and unity of our responsible constituents towards the preservation of the environment,” she added.
PG-ENRO head Annalyn Rosario-Valdez said the initiative not only strengthens waste management but also encourages reduced plastic use and proper segregation.
An information education campaign was also held on May 21.
The campaign was meant to educate tourism stakeholders on Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, Plastic Code of La Union, and the process of conducting a plastic brand audit.
The program serves as a strategic intervention of the provincial government to support the implementation and preservation of the province’s 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan.
The collected recyclable plastic wastes will be delivered to accredited recycling centers./apl
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