Unilever launches plastic collection program in Pasig City

Editor’s note: Taking care of the environment requires the collaboration of enterprises, larger organizations, and consumers. In this GoodRap story, we share how Unilever is encouraging consumers to practice proper waste management. 

Unilever Philippines, in partnership with the City of Pasig and Cemex Philippines, has announced the launch of its plastic collection program, Walastik na Pasig.

The initiative was formally launched during a virtual ceremony attended by representatives from Unilever, led by Chairman and CEO Benjie Yap, the local government of Pasig led by Mayor Vico Sotto, the Pasig City Public Information Office, and CEMEX Philippines, led by President and CEO Ignacio Mijares. 

Walastik na Pasig

The Walastik na Pasig program invites households and community junk shops to practice proper segregation and recycling with an overall goal of reducing plastic waste in landfills and waterways.

To participate, individuals are encouraged to collect and clean sachets, plastic bags, and other single-use packaging. A corresponding cash incentive per kilogram donated will be given to those who will drop off their properly segregated waste in designated Walastik junk shops.

These household practices will be complemented by the information and education campaign drive organized by the local government unit of Pasig City and leaders from the 30 partner barangays. 

Misis Walastik

Announced as part of the company’s celebration of Zero Waste Month, this collaboration is also an expansion of Unilever’s flagship sachet recovery program, Misis Walastik.

Launched in 2012, Misis Walastik is the company’s longest-running environmental sustainability program. It was created as a community-based waste collection program that aims to teach residents about proper waste management.

As an incentive-centered program, the main principles of this initiative are kolek (collect), kilo (weigh), and kita (earn). It also helps provide additional income for both the informal waste sector and participating households.

In 2020, Unilever has widened the program’s reach through partnerships with over 370 barangays across Metro Manila and nearby provinces. The company continues to connect with local governments, private organizations, and other stakeholders in the waste value chain.

Are you looking to establish Walastik programs in your local community? For more information, you can follow the hashtag #WaisWalastik and the brand’s official Facebook page. – Rappler.com