La Consolacion College Bacolod’s Team Sustainify has soared to the forefront of the Circular Connect Competition 2023, securing a prestigious position as one of the final three teams. Their groundbreaking circular solution, designed to revolutionize plastic waste management, has propelled them to the upcoming GIZ National Stakeholder Forum on November 15-16, 2023, where they will present their innovative concept.
The competition, specifically focused on addressing the environmental challenges of plastic waste and marine litter, received submissions from numerous innovative teams. Among these, 17 teams presented their Circular Innovation Solutions since the competition’s commencement in August 2023. After a rigorous evaluation process, seven teams were shortlisted to participate in the Circular Innovation Bootcamp, where they showcased their proposed solutions through a pitch presentation. Following an intensive assessment, the three winning teams, including La Consolacion College Bacolod’s Team Sustainify, were announced on October 31, 2023.
Team Sustainify’s visionary circular solution hinges on leveraging digital technology through the “Sustainify” app. This comprehensive platform integrates multiple features such as Waste Hotspots Mapping, Real-Time Waste Collection Schedules, Environmental Impact Tracking, Community Challenges, and Educational Resources. The app also includes a Directory of Advocacy Partners, Resource Listings and Exchanges, User-Generated Content, a Rewards System, and a Feedback Loop. Notably, the proposed app fosters collaborations with local government units, waste management companies, eco-friendly businesses, and recycling partners, potentially transforming the landscape of sustainable waste management.
The team’s entry exceeded the competition’s stringent criteria, excelling in problem identification, offering an innovative solution, local relevance and feasibility, circular design, and the quality of their pitch.
Comprised of Edmark Luis C. Monotilla as Project Lead (BSHM), Eden E. Gamilla as Lead Researcher (BLIS), Jann Mari L. Poblador as Lead Developer (BSIT), and Reinshan I. Maspara as Lead Designer (BS Arch), Team Sustainify is under the mentorship of Mr. Adryan J. Valiao, the Coordinator of the LCCB Institutional Environmental Advocacy Program.
The Circular Connect Competition was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Circular Cities Asia and the 3RproMar Project, co-hosted by GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation GmbH) and the ASEAN Secretariat.
As Team Sustainify moves closer to presenting its innovative solution at the GIZ National Stakeholder Forum, they continue to embody LCC Bacolod’s dedication to environmental sustainability. Their commitment serves as an inspiration, lighting the path towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for the community and the planet at large. #lccbPRIDE #lccbIEAP #GreenerLCCB #BuildingDreamsTogetherwithLCCB