In a bid to address the plastic pollution in the oceans, the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines, together with Ayala Malls and other partner corporations, has launched the #AyokoNgPlastik movement.
The #AyokoNgPlastik movement brings together companies, individuals, and other sectors to minimize and eventually put a stop to single-use plastics such as straws, bags, bottles, and cups. Refusing these items is a simple yet strong first step that individuals can take to commit to a sustainable lifestyle, especially since the harm that these materials cause directly affects humans.
“Plastic pollution is a serious threat not only to marine life but to human life as well. Plastics don’t completely degenerate and just break down into small pieces—microplastics—which are ingested by the fish that we eat. The possibility of plastics ending up on dinner plates is a serious concern and a health hazard,” said WWF-Philippines president and chief executive Joel Palma.
Initiated by WWF-Philippines’ Next Generation Council, #AyokoNgPlastik’s goal is to raise awareness and encourage individuals to live more consciously and for businesses to operate more sustainably.
The NGC is made up of young movers and shakers who heeded the call to spread WWF-Philippines’ conservation thrusts. Headed by The Net Group chair Raymond Rufino, members include television host and columnist Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, Philux chief operating officer Stephanie Kienle-Gonzalez, Magsaysay Transport and Logistics chief operating officer Jesse Maxwell, Teach for the Philippines chief executive officer Clarissa Delgado, The Moment Group co-founder and creative director Abba Napa, and former WWF-Philippines National Youth Council chairperson Alexa Cancio.
“Driven by deep concern, every member of the NGC is volunteering time, energy, and resources to reduce single-use plastic pollution in the country. The challenge is daunting but we are determined and committed,” stated Rufino.
Ayala Malls, one of the biggest shopping mall developers in the Philippines, has also expressed support for the movement.
“Sustainability has long been a priority for Ayala Malls and we’re especially proud to have the chance to continue the momentum with WWF,” enthused Ayala Malls deputy head Mariana Zobel de Ayala.
“We launched our initial campaign in 2009, with the aim to bring focus to the importance of sustainable living, and last year we established our intent for no plastic shopping bags across Ayala Malls,” shared Zobel de Ayala.
“We are thrilled to have found a partner in WWF for #AyokoNgPlastik campaign, as we work together for a more sustainable future for the Philippines,” she added.
In addition to Ayala Malls, other official partners of the #AyokoNgPlastik movement include National Geographic, Bellevue Hotels and Resorts, Bo’s Coffee, Corkcicle, Coffee Project, Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort, Puerto Pension Inn, foodpanda, HSBC, Impact Hub Manila, IVO, The Lind Boracay, The Moment Group, Toby’s Estate, CIBO, and CNN-Philippines.
“We’re very grateful to have a number of companies join the movement this early on. With their involvement, it makes it easier for Filipinos to veer away from plastic and choose a sustainable alternative instead. We’re hoping to get more partners to participate in this cause,” remarked Palma.
Go to WWF-Philippines’ social media pages to find out how to participate in the #AyokoNgPlastik movement.
