Universal Robina Corp. (URC) and Holcim Philippines have joined forces with the local government of Obando, Bulacan, to enhance waste management efforts in the community.
This collaboration focuses on diverting non-recyclable plastics from landfills and urban waterways, contributing to environmental sustainability.
For the past three years, URC and Holcim, through their waste management unit Geocycle, have been transforming waste plastic from URC’s operations into alternative fuels for Holcim’s cement production in Iligan, Misamis Oriental. The newly signed tripartite agreement with Obando aims to bolster community-based waste diversion initiatives and incentivize workers at the town’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF).
At the signing ceremony, MRF workers were rewarded with sacks of rice for their essential contributions, having already sorted 785 metric tons of plastic waste for co-processing. Obando mayor Ding Valeda emphasized the agreement as a significant step towards a cleaner community and enhanced solid waste management programs.
Holcim’s chief sustainability officer, Samuel Manlosa Jr., noted the partnership aligns with Holcim’s sustainability goals, highlighting the potential for public-private collaboration to foster community development and combat plastic pollution. With this initiative, URC, Holcim, and the Obando local government are set to create a more sustainable and resilient community.
