PRESS RELEASE– Coop Chamber on Earth Day 2024: Care for the community extends to a higher level of collective action, the care for the Environment.
The Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. joins the entire nation in today’s celebration of Earth Day with a specific theme “Planet vs Plastics”.
As guided by the 7th Cooperative Principle, which is “Concern for the Community,” cooperatives should work not only towards the sustainable development of their communities but also towards mitigating the effects of climate change for the preservation of the environment and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
It is imperative to note that our planet is currently facing a climate crisis due to various factors, including greenhouse gas emissions, dirty energy, and the rampant use of plastics in our daily consumption and production of goods and services. Plastic pollution is a significant issue that affects the entire planet, and it has been proven to cause harm to animals, including fatalities due to starvation and entanglement. Humans are also at risk of plastic pollution as microplastics have been found in people, which can penetrate their lungs and bloodstream, posing potential health hazards.
Despite these risks, industries continue to use plastic in their operations, making it an integral part of their production and service. It is high time to find an alternative to plastic in manufacturing and industries.
Cooperatives must take the lead in raising awareness about the negative effects of plastic pollution, implementing clear policies on plastic usage, and developing sustainable programs to protect the environment as a whole. As we only have one planet to live in, we must all be concerned about its continued existence.
Contact person:
Edwin A. Bustillos Executive Director
CP# 09178017309
