CCC ramps up action against plastic pollution as Plastic-Free July concludes

MANILA — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) reinforced its commitment to scale up the drive against plastic pollution and engage government, civil society, and community partners in promoting sustainable consumption and production as the monthlong observance of Plastic-Free July concluded.

Anchored on the theme “Walang Plastikan, Walang Iwanan!,” the campaign brought together government agencies, civil society organizations, youth groups, and communities to promote sustainable consumption and production, strengthen waste reduction efforts, and encourage climate-conscious lifestyles under the principle of a just transition that leaves no one behind.

The commission kicked off its participation by joining the “Walang Plastikan, Walang Iwanan! Takbuhan!” on July 26, an initiative designed to demonstrate that community sporting events can be organized without generating single-use plastic waste. It aimed to raise awareness of local plastic reduction policies and strengthen collaboration among local governments, civil society organizations, and communities.

The activities culminated in the Arts, Culture, and Music Festival on July 31, where the CCC mounted an information booth to highlight its climate action initiatives and the “Bawal Plastik Dito” campaign. During the event, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje and Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera joined government and civil society leaders in pledging their full support for plastic reduction.

“At the heart of this effort is a simple principle: walang iwanan. Solutions must be inclusive, ensuring that no community is left behind. Zero Waste is not just about reducing trash, it is about rethinking systems, values, and how we use resources,” Borje said.

He added, “Through art, culture, and music, today’s celebration transforms awareness into action and inspires hope.”

Reaffirming the reduction of plastic pollution as a form of climate action, Herrera recognized these efforts as a shared responsibility.

“Real transformation happens when governments, businesses, civil society, communities, artists, educators, and young people move together with a shared purpose. As we shift toward more sustainable systems and practices, we must ensure that no one is left behind, especially the communities, workers, and sectors most affected by both climate change and plastic pollution,” she said.

The event featured interactive exhibits, community murals, cultural performances, reuse and refill demonstrations, workshops on circular living, and performances honoring environmental champions and communities affected by ecological hazards.

The CCC, under the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., emphasized that addressing plastic pollution reduces greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and communities affected by climate change.

Plastic-Free July is a global movement that encourages millions of people worldwide to refuse single-use plastics and reduce waste generation. Through partnerships with organizations such as the EcoWaste Coalition, the CCC continues to advance whole-of-society approaches that encourage responsible consumption and production, support the transition to a circular economy, and reinforce climate action at the national and community levels.

The CCC’s participation formed part of its continuing “Bawal Plastik Dito” campaign, which supports the national drive to reduce single-use plastics, promote ecologically sound alternatives, and mainstream climate change and environmental sustainability across sectors.

For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming programs and partnerships, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.