To address the growing concern over plastic pollution in the country, the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will host a National Stakeholders Meeting on Plastic Recycling using radiation technology.
In a statement, DOST-PNRI said the event aims to promote the use of radiation technology towards reducing plastic pollution and creating a more sustainable future for the Philippines.
The DOST-PNRI shared how radiation technology can significantly enhance the durability and recyclability of plastics.
“By bombarding plastic waste with a beam of high-energy particles, radiation can change the molecular structure of the plastic, making it more durable and recyclable,” it explained.
This, it added, will offer “a sustainable solution to the plastic pollution problem.”
Project leader Dr. Jordan Marid explained the meeting will serve as a platform “to raise awareness on the potential applications and contributions of nuclear science and technology in plastic recycling and the circular economy.”
“It also aims to foster partnerships among key stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, private companies, high schools, colleges, and universities,” Marid added.
The meeting will be held on Nov. 6 at the Park Inn Hotel in Quezon City, led by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum.
Solidum will be joined by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Deputy Director General Hua Liu, who is under the framework of IAEA’s Nuclear Technology for Controlling Plastic Pollution (NUTEC Plastics).