You’ve likely seen some of your friends adopt a zero-waste lifestyle (or you may even be practicing this yourself). These days, more and more people are becoming aware of the waste management problem, embracing environmental activism and advocating strategies for recycling, proper trash disposal, and resource conservation.
However, waste management remains one of the most significant and persistent problems in the Philippines. In September 2017, the Break Free From Plastic (BFFP) movement conducted an audit of the trash in the Manila Bay area. The organization found thousands of trash items related to food packaging, household products, and personal care products, most of which came from major brands in the Philippines.
Unfortunately, this isn’t exactly surprising. The Philippines generates an estimated 35,000 tons of municipal solid waste daily, with Metro Manila accounting for over 8,600 tons of it.
Furthermore, local government units find it challenging to implement RA 9003 (the “Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000”). RA 9003 includes provisions on recycling, composting, proper garbage disposal, and other solid waste reduction strategies. Despite being signed into law in 2001, implementing RA 9003 remains a seemingly uphill battle.
In line with these, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) seeks to strengthen its Solid Waste Management Advocacy Campaign. The agency has come up with an engaging and creative way to accomplish this — one with Php 60,000 (tax-free) up for grabs!
How to join the “Pinas: The Basura Buster” Mascot Design Contest
We are looking for a mascot design that will be the face of the Solid Waste Management Advocacy Campaign!
Do you have…Posted by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Friday, September 14, 2018
DENR’s “Pinas: The Basura Buster” Mascot Design Contest is open to Filipinos aged 10 years old and above. (However, you can’t join if you’re a DENR employee, consultant, contractual, or casual. If you’re a first- or second-degree relative of a DENR employee/consultant/contractual/casual, you also cannot enter this contest. Sorry!)
To join, come up with a mascot design that effectively conveys the message on solid waste management. You may use traditional or digital illustration methods in creating your design. Aside from the mascot itself, you must also prepare a brief description or explanation of your concept.
There will only be one winner for this contest, so make sure to give it your best shot! You have until October 14, 2018 to submit your entry.
Download and read the full contest mechanics by clicking this link. Meanwhile, you may access the entry form by clicking here.
References
- https://business.inquirer.net/238997/addressing-waste-management-woes-cities
- https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/210292-reason-philippines-cannot-solve-trash-problem
- https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/212001-solving-problem-plastic-waste
Author: Mikael Angelo Francisco
Bitten by the science writing bug, Mikael has years of writing and editorial experience under his belt. As the editor-in-chief of FlipScience, Mikael has sworn to help make science more fun and interesting for geeky readers and casual audiences alike.
