Manila, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) announced the launch of the PLASTIKalikasan Program, aimed at tackling plastic waste in mining sites and their surrounding communities. The initiative, which coincided with the Earth Day 2024 celebrations, introduces a comprehensive approach to plastic waste management in the mining sector.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PLASTIKalikasan is envisioned as a long-term, nationwide initiative. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga emphasized that the program is more than a mere clean-up effort; it is integral to the department's strategy for building resilience against climate change impacts. "PLASTIKalikasan will serve as a crucial platform for mining and mineral processing companies to systematically collect, recycle, reuse, and properly dispose of plastic waste," Loyzaga stated.
The program will be incorporated into the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP) and ISO 14001:2015 standards that each mining company is required to follow. The EPEP, which must be prepared and approved before mining operations begin, outlines the methods and procedures companies must undertake to meet their environmental protection and management goals, as mandated by the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 and its revised rules and regulations.
The launch of PLASTIKalikasan was marked by community clean-up drives led by 15 MGB Regional Offices, attracting participation from over 7,000 individuals including mining contractors, permit holders, community volunteers, and members from local and non-government organizations. An initial tally from these efforts reported the collection of approximately 47,000 kilograms of plastic and other solid waste.
Secretary Loyzaga praised the collaborative effort of stakeholders in the mineral industry and local communities, emphasizing their shared responsibility in adhering to the highest environmental protection standards. She announced that PLASTIKalikasan will officially become part of the EPEP for implementation by 2025.
Additionally, Loyzaga revealed plans for an incentive program under PLASTIKalikasan to encourage community engagement in reducing, recycling, and upcycling plastic waste. Details of the incentive types and eligibility criteria are set to be developed by the MGB. The program also aims to foster partnerships between mining companies and recycling organizations to further enhance environmental conservation efforts.
MGB data indicates that the Philippines currently hosts 59 operating metallic mines, 61 non-metallic mines, and eight mineral processing plants.