Representatives of the Makati Business Club and Dow Chemical Philippines Inc. turned over 25 bike racks to the city government of Muntinlupa led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon.
“MBC and Dow Chemical collaborated to turn plastic waste into bike racks because of our mutual advocacy for sustainable transport and circular economy,” said MBC chairman Edgar Chua. “Apart from reducing plastic waste, installing secure bike parking can reduce traffic congestion and help employees bike to work, and those for whom biking is work.”
The bike racks–produced by Envirotech Waste Recycling, Inc.–are completely made from upcycled materials, such as styrofoam, bubblewrap, sando bags and non-recyclable and multi-layer packaging like sachets, candy wrappers, and foil packaging.
Approximately 1,770 kilograms of plastic waste was recycled to manufacture 55 bike racks, with the city government of Las Pinas as the other intended recipient of this initiative.
“This project reflects Dow’s commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. By transforming potential pollutants into community benefits, we are significantly reducing waste and promoting a healthier environment,” said Dow Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand marketing manager Arnold Benitez.
“Celebrating Dow Philippines’ 60th anniversary, our ‘Together Towards Tomorrow’ theme emphasizes our dedication to a sustainable future through collaboration and innovation. This milestone highlights our enduring commitment to the Philippines and the importance of working together to achieve our shared goals,” he said.
Muntinlupa turned over 50kg of plastic waste to support the production of the upcycled bike racks, an advocacy that was highlighted by Biazon.
The bike racks will be installed at Cupang Health Center, Poblacion Health Center, Schools Division Office, Muntinlupa Business High School, Victoria Homes Elementary School, benefitting at least 50 cyclists at a time.
Dow Chemical is the main partner of the Upcycled Bike Racks project,under MBC’s Business for Biking Program. The program was launched in 2021 in partnership with the Embassy of the Netherlands and with Shell Pilipinas Corp. in 2022.