The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) successfully hosted the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) Launch on January 23, 2025, at Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas. The NPAP initiative, which is also present in countries such as Indonesia, Ghana, and Vietnam, gathered key stakeholders from government agencies, private corporations, and non-governmental organizations to address the pressing issue of plastic waste and explore solutions through collaboration.
In the Philippines, the NPAP comprises the following key components: formation of baseline data to assess plastic pollution in the country; development of a National Plastic Action road map and a financing road map; and the establishment of an inclusive dialogue space.
A "Convergent Approach" towards a Circular Economy
Plastic pollution remains a significant environmental challenge in the Philippines, requiring a multi-sectoral approach. The NPAP initiative focuses on uniting various sectors to promote sustainable waste management and a circular economy. The event featured insightful discussions from government officials and industry leaders on the importance of collective efforts in tackling plastic waste.
In her keynote address, Hon. Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), emphasized the critical challenge of "Planet versus plastics," highlighting the urgency of addressing plastic pollution in the Philippines. She noted that the country produces approximately 2.7 million tons of plastic waste annually, with a significant portion ending up in landfills, waterways, and eventually the ocean. Sec. Loyzaga underscored the environmental and health hazards posed by plastic pollution, including the presence of microplastics in raindrops and their potential impact on climate change.
She also discussed the economic implications, citing an annual loss of around $890 million due to the disposal of recyclable plastics. The Secretary highlighted the government's response through the passage of the Expanded Producer Responsibility Act (EPR Law), which shifts the responsibility of plastic waste collection from local governments to producers and manufacturers. She called for a collective effort, involving not only the government and corporations but also individuals, experts, and educational institutions, to transition towards sustainable practices and a plastic-free world.and NPAP Steering Board Chair, emphasized the need for urgent and coordinated action.
Atty. Jonas R. Leones, Undersecretary of DENR, provided an overview of the country's progress and challenges in managing plastic waste. Through the NPAP, DENR will assess EPR implementation data from 2024, mentioning that there have been discussions on giving incentives or notices of violation based on compliance or noncompliance of the EPR.
Collaborative Efforts for EPR Implementation
One key highlight of the event was the participation of various multinational companies, including Coca-Cola Philippines, which represented the private sector's role in supporting the newly enacted Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law. As a co-chair of the NPAP Steering Board, Coca-Cola reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders to enhance plastic collection and recycling systems in the country. Their efforts align with the broader industry initiative to promote sustainable packaging solutions and responsible waste management practices.
Coca-Cola, in partnership with UNDP and organizations such as the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), is actively working towards strengthening plastic recovery systems across the country. These collaborations are vital to creating long-term solutions that support environmental sustainability.
Moving Forward
Through interactive sessions such as “NPAP and Our Way Forward,” stakeholders explored strategies to enhance plastic waste management. The event concluded with a Q&A session, where industry leaders, government representatives, and environmental advocates shared their perspectives on advancing circular economy initiatives.
The NPAP launch highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving a zero-waste future, with multinational corporations, UNDP, and other stakeholders working together to advance plastic recovery initiatives for a more sustainable Philippines.
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