La Union provincial government’s bid for a zero-waste environment has resulted in the collection of more than 8,000 kilos of polyethylene bottles and solid waste in 2024 alone.

Under the Palit Basura (garbage exchange) program, being implemented with Project Hope and Century Tuna’s Save our Seas Project since April last year, the provincial government was able to collect 8,639.35 kilos of polyethylene bottles and solid wastes, which were swapped for 10,997 pieces of canned goods.

Also part of the province’s effort is the enforcement of the 2023 Plastic Code of La Union that aims to mitigate the negative effects of plastic on the environment and promote sustainable practices.

The ordinance imposed the ban of single-use plastics and polystyrene products in all business establishments in the province.

It prohibits the use of plastic forks, spoons, cups, plates, straw, food containers and products made of foamed polystyrene, or more popularly known by the brand name Styrofoam.

“We continue to intensify our information education campaign and we encourage our province mates to use alternatives to plastic,” Governor Raphaelle Veronica David said in a statement.

Since La Union is also known for its tourist attractions, the province’s Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) focuses on maintaining cleanliness in the key tourist destinations and coastal areas.

In collaboration with different local government units, the ENRO continues to monitor giant trash bins placed in popular destinations including the Urbiztondo surfing area in San Juan; Bilagan Road in Santol; Baluarte Watchtower in Luna; Immuki Island in Balaoan; San Carlos beach in Caba; and Agoo Eco Park.

“We underscore our thrust on environmental sustainability that is why we encourage our visitors and locals to properly dispose of their trash to preserve the beauty of our tourist spots,” David said.

“January is Zero Waste Month, and this is a timely reminder to our kaprobinsyahan (provincemates) to continue with our efforts to enjoin everybody in this environmental cause,” she added. (PNA)