Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga has issued a challenge to large manufacturers and distributors of plastic-packaged products, urging them to take action to improve the livelihood and working conditions of waste pickers. Yulo-Loyzaga suggests that waste pickers be incorporated into the formal solid waste management industry and be provided with alternative opportunities for livelihood. In addition, she proposes that companies offer financial literacy programs and training to enhance the entrepreneurship skills of waste pickers.
Yulo-Loyzaga highlights the critical role that waste pickers can play in the success of extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs under the EPR Act of 2022. According to the act, obligated enterprises with assets worth at least P100 million are required to allocate resources toward the proper disposal and recovery of plastic packaging waste. The law aims to gradually increase the recovery percentage from 20 percent to 80 percent by 2028.
Despite their importance, waste pickers have been largely neglected and marginalized in society. Yulo-Loyzaga points out that they are often excluded from the value chain of solid waste management, despite being integral to the collection and recycling processes. The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) further emphasizes the vital role of waste pickers in bridging the gap in material collection and recycling, thereby preventing solid waste from ending up in dumps and waterways.
Yulo-Loyzaga suggests that enterprises can collaborate with waste pickers by involving them in segregation and recycling activities. This can be achieved by forming cooperatives and establishing local collection centers. By recognizing waste pickers as formal workers entitled to benefits and safe working conditions, they can have a more stable and secure livelihood.
Transforming collection and sorting facilities, including junk shops, into formal establishments supported by EPR programs can also help manage the increasing volume of waste. Yulo-Loyzaga emphasizes the urgent need for collective action and commitment from all stakeholders, including local government units, government agencies, mandated enterprises, and informal workers.
By actively involving waste pickers and improving their working conditions, companies have the opportunity to contribute to environmental sustainability while empowering marginalized individuals. It’s a win-win solution that benefits businesses, the environment, and Filipino communities striving for a better future.
Please subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and information.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
