3RproMar Concludes the 3rd Regional Workshop Series in Philippines

3RproMar has just concluded its 3^rd Regional Workshop Series, which was convened on 19 – 22 March in Iloilo City, the Philippines, in coordination with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines. Under the theme “From Knowledge to Action: Facilitating Concrete Efforts for Enhanced Land-Based Marine Litter Prevention in ASEAN,” the workshop was participated by more than 100 participants from ASEAN Member States and international organizations. They all partook to work on joint solutions to combat plastic waste in ASEAN.

The event explored collaborative waste management strategies, spotlighting the progress of the Regional Knowledge Hub for Marine Litter Prevention in ASEAN, and the necessity for international cooperation in tackling plastic pollution. Mr Laska Sophal, Director of the Hazardous Substances Management Department of the Ministry of Environment of Cambodia highlighted the importance of bringing the knowledge down into the local level where most measures are implemented.

National efforts by ASEAN Member States like Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Viet Nam were presented, showcasing initiatives in circular economy adoption and waste management improvement. The sessions emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and innovative solutions in overcoming environmental challenges.

Another focus was placed on microplastic pollution, with experts stressing the urgent need for standardized research methodologies and policymaking based on collaborative data. The session highlighted the significance of addressing microplastics through comprehensive strategies that involve all stakeholders.

In two engaging deep dive sessions, the focus shifted to the critical realms of “Behavioral Change” and “Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).” The first session, dedicated to Behavioral Change, gave a first presentation of the Behavioral Change Design Toolbox that is developed by 3RproMar to support the ASEAN Regional Action Plan for Combating Marine Debris in the ASEAN Member States. This session highlighted the importance of tailoring strategies to diverse communities and offered a live testing of elements of the toolbox.

The workshop was concluded by field visits to the pilot sites of 3RproMar around Iloilo City and Guimaras Island. ASEAN representatives had the chance to see implementation sites in person and dive into discussions with local stakeholders.

We would like to thank all participants for all the valuable contributions in the workshop. We are also delighted to share a comprehensive report on the Regional Workshop. Let’s celebrate this opportunity as a step forward, bolstering collaboration and sharing inspiration the field of waste management!