On July 27, 2023, La Consolacion College Bacolod took part in the Circular Connect Workshop held at Park Inn by Radisson in Bacolod City. The event aimed to address the pressing issue of marine litter in the Western Visayas Region and explore localized solutions within the framework of a circular economy. Organized by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, in collaboration with the project ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle to Protect the Marine Environment and Coral Reefs’ (3RproMar) and the Sector Network on Transport, Environment, Energy, and Water in Asia (TUEWAS), the workshop brought together experts, practitioners, and the academe to foster knowledge exchange and collaborative efforts in combatting marine pollution.
LCC Bacolod was represented by key individuals who have been actively involved in environmental advocacy and research. These representatives were Mr. Rodjhun B. Navarro – Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Linkages; Mr. Adryan J. Valiao – Coordinator of the Institutional Environmental Advocacy Program; and Mr. Jomil G. Villanueva – Strand Chair of the SHS Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
The workshop commenced with an informative presentation on the 3RproMar project and its initiatives in the Philippines, delivered by Dr. Johannes Paul. This provided attendees with an overview of the project’s objectives and its role in promoting sustainable practices to protect marine environments and coral reefs.
Following this, Dave Albao shared valuable experiences and insights gained from implementing behavior change initiatives related to solid waste management and the circular economy. His contributions shed light on the importance of addressing the human aspects of waste management and promoting circular practices for a more sustainable future.
Suzanna Pomeroy from Circular Cities Asia presented the concept of Circular Cities and their commitment to supporting universities in integrating circular economy principles into their student programs. This offered a potential avenue for LCC Bacolod to further advance its environmental initiatives within its academic programs and campus operations.
Furthermore, a representative from the Circular Campus Program participant, Bataan Peninsula State University, shared their experiences, challenges, and successes in adopting circular practices on their campus. This served as an inspiring case study for LCC Bacolod, encouraging them to explore similar approaches in their institution.
The second part of the program focused on the workshop exploring university networking and the active involvement of students in circular economy and environmental research. The objective was to enhance community awareness and encourage participation in solid waste management and circular economy programs. This interactive session provided an opportunity for LCC Bacolod to collaborate with other universities and organizations in the Western Visayas Region to develop effective localized solutions to marine litter.
One significant highlight of the event was the announcement of the Circular Connect Competition, scheduled to take place in September this year. LCC Bacolod expressed its enthusiasm in participating in the competition and contributing to the development of innovative solutions within the framework of a circular economy. The institution aimed to focus on reducing single-use plastic and packaging waste, promoting sustainable plastic consumption and production, and improving land-based waste management systems.
La Consolacion College Bacolod’s participation in the Circular Connect Workshop demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability and the preservation of marine ecosystems in the Western Visayas Region. Through the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and collaborative efforts with other stakeholders, LCC Bacolod aims to develop localized solutions that will contribute to the reduction of marine litter and promote circular economy practices. By actively engaging students and integrating circular principles into its programs, the institution strives to make a positive impact on the environment and inspire other educational institutions and communities to join the movement towards a greener and more sustainable future. #lccbIEAP #GreenerLCCB #LCCBat104 #LCCBCommunityofFriends