Single-use plastics ban in govt offices pushed

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has pushed for a ban on single-use plastic in government offices to contribute to the government’s broader climate change agenda.

This was after CCC commended the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the issuance of an order which bans the unnecessary use of single-use plastics across all DTI offices and facilities nationwide.

“By eliminating single-use plastics in its operations, DTI sets a benchmark for how national agencies can lead efforts to combat pollution, protect marine ecosystems, and reduce the carbon footprint of government operations,” CCC vice chairman and Executive Director Robert Borje said in a statement.

“Plastics, often made from fossil fuels, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions throughout their lifecycle-from production to disposal. Reducing reliance on these materials lessens the burden on landfills, prevents marine pollution, and curbs greenhouse gas emissions,” he added.

Borje said that the CCC has consistently advocated for integrating climate policies at all levels of government.

“DTI’s order reflects this advocacy that we hope will create a ripple effect that will inspire other national agencies, local government units, and private institutions to adopt similar measures,” he said.

He noted that the policy also supported the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, especially in the waste sector.

“Through this initiative, DTI contributes to the country’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve sustainability goals,” he said.

Further, Borje said that the initiative “aligns with the broader targets of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), which promotes climate resilience through waste reduction and sustainable consumption.”

Borje added that “the CCC encourages other government agencies to adopt similar measures and calls on all sectors of society to reduce reliance on single-use plastics, promote reusable alternatives, and engage their stakeholders in these efforts.”

He reiterated that the CCC remained committed to work with agencies to translate policies into action.

Borje said, “The issuance of Department Order No. 24-172 demonstrates how policy can improve sustainability, reduce ecological degradation, and strengthen national climate resilience. We congratulate DTI on this initiative and urge other agencies and sectors to take similar bold steps.”