Role of Standards in Achieving ESG Targets

This webinar is organised by DIT- Philippines and the British Embassy Manila to showcase the UK’s innovations in plastics, including the role of national standards and new technologies in achieving environmental social and governance targets.

Be in the know of the Philippines solid waste management outlook and get a chance to interact with industry leaders and experts across the plastics value chain.

Background

The scourge of plastic pollution remains unabated in the Philippines. According to Government estimates, plastics take up a significant bulk of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated, accounting for 38% of the recyclables segment. This figure is set to increase, bolstered by unfettered urbanisation and consumption-based growth. The onset of the global pandemic has also led to a surge in disposable plastics – making plastic management a topical issue. Overall, Metro Manila will contribute to the lion’s share of waste production – an emblematic trait of many mega cities’ rapid ascent.

Globally, the World Bank (WB) estimates that almost £8bn worth of plastic packaging value is lost from the global economy due to inefficient recycling programmes. This discarded waste often finds its way into natural environments – contaminating water sources and harming critical ecosystems. WB estimates the Philippines produces 0.75 million metric tonnes of mismanaged plastic that end up in the ocean every year – making it the third-largest contributor of plastic leakage into marine systems.

Addressing the challenge of plastics will require participation from broad swathes of the economy – including consumers, private companies, and the public sector.

Hence, the British Embassy Manila is organising a webinar that will spotlight some of the UK’s innovations in plastics such as new/emerging technologies for biodegradable plastics and offer an insight into the role of standards as a viable policy lever national governments can use to drive ESG and sustainability targets.

Agenda and Speakers

Welcome remarks
UK Department for International Trade; British Embassy Manila

Philippine Solid Waste Management Situation
Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Role of Standards in Addressing Plastics Pollution 
British Standard Institution (BSI)

Technology Showcase 
Polymateria UK

Industry Response and Outlook 
Philippine Plastics Industry Association (PPIA)

Closing Remarks 
UK Department for International Trade – British Embassy Manila

For enquiries, please e-mail dit.manila@fcdo.gov.uk