Our leader, Kak Bambang Sutrisno participated in the Zerowaste Academy 2024 Cohort Asia Pacific held by GAIA Asia Pacific and Mother Earth Foundation Philippines on last June 2024 in the Philippines. Read the full stories to capture the learning takeaways from the Academy.
Environmental Enthusiast | Youth Development & Empowerment Expert | Climate Change & Waste Management Specialist | Design Thinking Certified | Movement Connector
[Zero Waste Academy 2024 Cohort Asia Pacific] Last June, I had the opportunity to attend an in-person workshop from the Zerowaste Academy 2024 Asia Pacific Cohort, organized by GAIA Asia Pacific and the Mother Earth Foundation Philippines. This event was held in the Philippines, specifically in Quezon City and Siquijor Island, from June 12 to June 21, 2024. Prior to this, Zerowaste Academy participants took part in self-paced online classes and several online meetings from March to April 2024. In June, some participants were invited to attend the in-person workshop to learn firsthand about waste management in the Philippines. Here's what we learned during the Zerowaste Academy 2024: 1. Waste segregation at the source is essential. Without initial segregation, the subsequent processing stages become more difficult. In Indonesia, there are already guidelines for source segregation, but sometimes they get mixed again by the waste collectors. 2. Regulations should be context-specific and strictly enforced, not just written rules. Waste management regulations have been strictly implemented down to the village level, with some even localized to fit the context. 3. Holistic management is key. Waste management must be comprehensive, not halfway. Organic waste, which constitutes the largest portion, should be treated appropriately through composting at Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). Recyclable waste and residuals must be taken to landfills. The focus shouldn’t just be on creating waste banks for profit, but on viewing waste management as a public service. 4. Reduced plastic use in fast food restaurants like Jollibee, McDonald's, Burger King, etc. Stringent city regulations have led these restaurants to comply by using reusable plates and cups instead of disposable ones. Is it cheaper to use paper cups and containers compared to washing reusable plates and cups? It was an incredibly valuable experience to participate in the Zerowaste Academy 2024 in person. Thank you, GAIA Asia Pacific, for the precious opportunity to be part of the Zerowaste Academy Alumni. Zerowaste is no longer impossible; it is something achievable. GAIA Asia Pacific Teens Go Green Indonesia #ZerowasteisPossible
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