Innovative Approaches to Marine Conservation and Pollution Reduction Highlighted at July Sustainability Committee Meeting

The Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, in partnership with Poseidon International, One Earth - One Ocean (Oeoo), and Holcim, hosted a successful interactive event yesterday, 31 July 2024, at Universal Grace Trading Corporation, CCP Complex, Pasay, focusing on marine conservation and pollution reduction. 

The event was attended by representatives from various companies and businesses including: Aprendio, Avantgarde Infra Machine Technik Inc, BDO Unibank, Inc., Business for Sustainable Development, Circular Explorer, Container Living PH, Dana Asia, Embassy of Sweden in Manila, GRMCS, Laguna Lake Development Authority, MA Country Office, Nezda Services Inc., Oceana, Odfjell Technology Philippines Corporation, Oeoo Manila (One Earth - One Ocean), PAGCOR, Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability, Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc., Plastic Bank, POSEIDON International, Pristine Energy, RiverRecycle Philippines, Save the Children Philippines (SCP) Inc., Spanish Commercial and Economic Office of the Embassy of Spain, The Manila Times, University of Santo Tomas, and, USAID Energy Secure Philippines, RTI. 

Exclusive On-Board Experience Aboard The Circular Explorer 

Attendees were treated to an exclusive guided tour of The Circular Explorer, a revolutionary 100% solar-powered recycling catamaran. Divided into two intimate groups, participants had the opportunity to explore the vessel's advanced waste collection systems, learn about its solar-powered capabilities, and discover its role in gathering critical water data to protect marine ecosystems. Key representatives from One Earth - One Ocean, Holcim, and local government officials shared valuable insights during the 20 to 30-minute "show and tell," highlighting the innovative technologies at play. 

Engaging Panel Discussion on Waste Management 

Following the tour, a dynamic panel discussion titled "Opportunities and Challenges in Waste Management" took place, featuring prominent experts: 

• Hector Manuel Jon Brizuela, Program Manager at Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. 
• Christine Bellen, Project Manager at Circular Explorer, as the event moderator 
• Fidel Ventura, Area Director of RiverRecycle Philippines 
• Elfritzson M. Peralta, Msc, Faculty Researcher, Program Coordinator, Organismic and Environmental Biology at University of Santo Tomas 
• Engr. Jun Paul U. Mistica, Department Manager III of Resource Management and Development Department (RMDD) at Laguna Lake Development Authority 

The panelists offered valuable perspectives on the current state of waste management, addressing both innovative solutions and the challenges that must be tackled to advance sustainable practices. 

A Memorable Event with Meaningful Discussions 

The event provided a unique platform for meaningful engagement and discussions about marine conservation and sustainable waste management. Due to the exclusive nature of the event, each participating company was represented by one key representative, ensuring a focused and productive exchange of ideas. 

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to this significant dialogue on sustainability. We look forward to continuing our collective efforts to protect and preserve our marine environments. 

ABOUT THE EVENT 

The NordCham Sustainability Committee aims for more collaboration across industries and learning opportunities from experts in the field of sustainability. Since April 2022, the Sustainability Committee has hosted 25 meetings on varying sustainability topics with resource speakers and sharing of best practices, networking opportunities and partnerships, and collaboration with government units.  

The next Sustainability Committee meeting will be held on August 28, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Narra Hall, BDO Towers Valero, Makati City. Stay tuned to our website and social media postings for more information.