Pasay City, August 15, 2024 – The Circular Explorer, an innovative solar-powered vessel, is setting sail on a mission to tackle one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time: plastic pollution in our oceans. This state-of-the-art vessel, capable of collecting up to 4 tons of plastic waste per day, represents a significant leap forward in the fight against marine pollution. But its mission extends far beyond cleanup; it is a symbol of hope and a catalyst for long-term change, driving awareness, education, and collaboration across sectors.
Holcim Philippines has been a pivotal supporter of this initiative, recognizing the Circular Explorer's multifaceted approach to addressing plastic waste. "The Circular Explorer embodies our commitment to sustainability and the circular economy," said Sam Manlosa, SVP and Chief Sustainability Officer of Holcim Philippines. "By not only cleaning our oceans but also advancing research and education, this vessel is a powerful tool for driving real, lasting change."
The Circular Explorer is not just focused on removing waste from our seas. It plays a critical role in advancing scientific research, gathering essential data on marine conditions and pollution levels.
This data is vital for informing and guiding more effective, data-driven solutions for waste management. "We keep talking about solutions but solutions can’t be coming out from thin air, it should be based on science and the Circular Explorer helps with that,” said Dr. Deo Florence Onda, Ph. D, Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, Development and Enterprise from the UP Marine Science Institute. “What we are pushing for is science and data-based decision-making,” he said. “Science, data, and solutions—this is how we create a sustainable future.”
Education is another cornerstone of the Circular Explorer's mission. In partnership with the Department of Education, a Waste Management curriculum has been developed and is being rolled out to schools across the country. This program is designed to equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools they need to address environmental challenges.
Dr. Malcolm Garma, Department of Education Assistant Secretary, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: "Education is key to fostering a sustainable future. By integrating waste management and circular economy principles into our curriculum, we are empowering our youth to become the environmental stewards of tomorrow."
The importance of public-private partnerships in achieving environmental sustainability goals cannot be overstated. The Circular Explorer's success is a testament to the collective efforts of organizations like Holcim Philippines, One Earth One Ocean and ASSIST, working together to create a cleaner, more sustainable world.
“In tackling the monumental challenge of plastic waste, it’s clear that no single entity can solve the problem alone. It requires a united effort—a collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society. Today’s milestone in environmental stewardship is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. While the challenges are indeed daunting, they are not insurmountable. With continued effort, improved data, and a shift in perspective, I am confident that we can pave the way toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.” said Crispian Lao, Founding President, Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Material Sustainability (PARMS), and Commissioner of the National Solid Waste Management Commission.
As the Circular Explorer embarks on its journey, it stands as a beacon of hope for our oceans and our planet. Its mission is clear: to inspire long-term change, empower communities, particularly the youth, and lead the way in the global fight against plastic pollution.
**About PARMS:**
The Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Material Sustainability (PARMS) is a multi-stakeholder coalition focused on promoting and implementing sustainable practices in waste management, recycling, and the circular economy in the Philippines.
**About Holcim Philippines:**
Holcim Philippines is a leading building solutions provider, committed to creating sustainable construction materials and practices. Currently, Holcim Philippines is one of the registered waste diverter under the PARMS EPR Program.
**About ASSIST:**
Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) is an international NGO focused on capacity building, sustainability, and social impact projects across Asia. ASSIST aims to empower communities through education, innovation, and collaboration.
**About One Earth-One Ocean:**
One Earth-One Ocean is a globally recognized organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of marine ecosystems through innovative technologies and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste in our oceans.
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