Plastic pollution — from land to deep sea or oceans — has become a pressing issue in the Philippines. Even the World Bank has described the plastic pollution situation in the country as "staggering," attributable to insufficient waste management system and skyrocketing plastic waste generation, amounting to 2.7 million tons annually.
This year, a major call to environmental conservation and sustainability is demanding a reduction of plastics. It also became the theme of Earth Day 2024, “Planet vs. Plastics,” aiming to reduce plastic production by up to 60 percent by 2040.
Despite the staggering problem of plastic pollution in the country, communities and some companies are joining together to lead recycling efforts. Executive assistant company Athena launched its initial “Pawi-CAN” sustainability project in San Juan, La Union, on April 22, to contribute to curbing plastic waste through grassroots movements.
Prior to the launch, various activities were conducted, hosted by the San Juan Resort and Hotel Association Inc. (SJRRHASS), including a coral reefs course facilitated by and in partnership with EcoSurf, an environmental group consisting of certified surf instructors who also lead beach cleanups, beach yoga, and environmental workshops.
Environmentalist Celso Jucutan reported that marine-based pollution, such as garbage and solid waste dumping, has been a significant threat to coral reefs. Without immediate actions taken to minimize local stressors, "the percent of threatened coral reefs worldwide will rise to 90 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2050." With this, EcoSurf led coral reef planting in San Juan after the discussion on coral reefs worldwide.
Athena's “Pawi-CAN” was designed by local artist John Parmisano, inspired by the community as La Union actively hosts a sea turtle conservation program. Made out of bamboo, the “Pawi-CAN” serves as a plastic disposal unit as well as a tourist attraction, aiming to boost local tourism in San Juan. This is in collaboration with local environmental groups and the government.
The installation emphasizes Athena’s commitment to responsible plastic disposal and recycling, while also serving as a call for individuals to join the cause.
Athena Chief Marketing Officer Victoria Alcachupas explained that La Union has always been a home for a sustainable future through tourism and environmental protection. "We are honored to work with the locals of La Union to promote proper waste management, as this initiative aligns with Athena’s aim to improve the quality of life through maintaining a clean environment,” said Alcachupas.
Believing in the "pawican" philosophy, where a culture of teamwork and achieving more is fostered, Athena and the local government strive for environmentally friendly and sustainable tourism. "We hope that with these efforts, locals and beachgoers alike will develop a greater awareness of their waste disposal habits, keeping our precious waters clean,” expressed San Juan Mayor Arturo Valdriz.
The “Pawi-CAN” will be monitored for five months; afterward, the collected plastic will be used to craft another installation, placed within the shore of San Juan beach.
Athena is an executive assistant company that fosters long-term relationships between its assistants and clients, "to work smarter, live better, and achieve more."