Philippine schools embrace safer waste management with new toxic-free program

The Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management Project (HCWM Project) recently took part in the Brigada Eskwela clean-up at Jose P. Laurel Sr. High School (JPLSHS). Alongside school staff and volunteers, the team helped tidy the campus while promoting better waste management. The visit also introduced a new initiative aimed at reducing toxic exposure in schools.

The HCWM Project, led by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) with support from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-EMB) and BAN Toxics, joined the annual school clean-up. Their participation included practical support, such as donating colour-coded waste bins to improve segregation efforts at JPLSHS.

During the event, the project team presented BAN Toxics’ *Toxics-Free and Waste-Free Schools Program* (TFSP) to school representatives. The programme focuses on educating students and teachers about hazardous chemicals found in school environments. It also provides learning materials and exercises to minimise exposure risks. Nurse Susie, the HCWM Project’s campaign mascot, made a special appearance to engage with participants. Jam Lorenzo, BAN Toxics’ Deputy Executive Director and HCWM Project Manager, stressed the need for greater public awareness in handling waste safely. The TFSP aims to integrate chemical safety into school activities, ensuring long-term protection for faculty and students. JPLSHS was chosen for the initiative due to its proximity to Quirino Memorial Medical Center, a key partner in the HCWM Project. The collaboration highlights efforts to extend waste management practices beyond healthcare into community spaces like schools.

The donation of segregation bins and the introduction of the TFSP mark a step toward safer waste handling at JPLSHS. The school now has additional resources to manage chemicals and reduce health risks. Future partnerships between the HCWM Project and local institutions could further expand these efforts across more communities.