The Philippines generates 2.7 million tons of plastic waste annually, with an estimated 20 percent ending up in the ocean, according to a 2021 World Bank study. Mismanaged plastic waste threatens poor urban areas by clogging drainage systems and causing floods.
To address this, Fisher Mall is launching Eco Rewards: Transforming Trash into Opportunities to promote effective waste management. In partnership with the Quezon City Climate Change and Environment Sustainability Department, Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies Inc. (BEST), and BXtra Philippines, the initiative aims to engage mall tenants and communities in environmental conservation while providing economic benefits.
“Recent devastating typhoons highlight the urgent need for environmental sustainability,” said Raymond Del Rosario, Fisher Mall Group of Companies president. “We hope to address this through Eco Rewards and support Mayor Joy Belmonte-Alimurung’s goal of a zero-carbon Quezon City by 2050.”
Fisher Mall, BEST, and BXtra Philippines are opening a Trash to CashBack Trading Booth to encourage recycling. Participants can bring properly sorted recyclable waste to earn environmental points and other benefits. The booth will operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at Fisher Mall Quezon Avenue Driveway. Trash to CashBack registration also is available during booth hours.
The Quezon City Climate Change and Environment Sustainability Department will lead an orientation on plastic ordinances and circular economy initiatives at the Fisher Mall Event Center. The Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office (QC-SBCDPO) will showcase eco-friendly merchandise and host a pop-up of the Kilo/s Kyusi Store.
Eco Rewards aims to foster a community-driven approach to addressing plastic waste and creating a more sustainable future.
“We invite everyone to join us in building a more sustainable future for all,” Del Rosario said.
