AOTS Program for Improvement of Plastic Waste Management
PPIA Officials together with the local participants Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra of Dept. of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), Prof. Alvin Culaba of De La Salle University, Prof. Fabian Dayrit of Ateneo University, and Prof. Tonette Tanchuling of the University of the Philippines participated in the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS) Japan’s 2nd training program entitled HRD for Improvement of Plastic Waste Management, last July 27 to August 02 2022 in Tokyo, Japan.
The program aims to improve plastic waste management in Asian emerging countries by sharing the knowledge and experience of Japan. Participants would be able to deepen their understanding of plastic waste management in Japan. After the program, participants are required to report policy proposals in their countries.
The Philippine representatives discussed the present situation and challenges of plastic waste management in the Philippines.
Current issues and challenges on solid waste management includes the limited knowledge and space for segregation at source, the lack of recycling capacity, including availability of MRFs, especially at the barangay level, poor interagency coordination to waste recycling and lack of government support and action to advance plastic waste management and largely undocumented, and the lack of scientific data and information.
To address these challenges, participants proposed actions such as institutionalizing and professionalizing collection and recycling at village level through centralized MRF system; conduct scientific studies on LCA; and intensifying information, education, and communication (IEC) activities at all level (i.e., national and local government, industry, and community stakeholders) on waste management implementation cycle.
Participants had the opportunity to tour various solid waste management plants, including recycling and waste-to-energy facilities.
Sorting Room for Pet bottles and plastic wastes
Japan’s Waste Incineration Facility model
Philippine participants with other countries’ participants who took part in the training.
Graduation of Participants in AOTS, Japan