THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said participation in the green economy will ultimately depend on the viability of such businesses, though opportunities are growing because of growing public awareness of sustainability issues.
Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said during a webinar on Wednesday that a ready market exists for green and recycled products, with consumers becoming more aware of the need for zero-waste living.
“The basic incentive is to make (green businesses) economically rewarding to all participants in the so-called value chain. So far, there is money for all from the collectors, sorters, the trading of these products, and bringing it to where it would be processed and recycled,” Mr. Lopez said.
Mr. Lopez said micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can also look into tapping solar energy to power their businesses.
“If MSMEs can start looking into solar energy as their (power) source, those with small operations, can put up solar panels so at least they can reduce their dependency on coal-based electricity and try to be independent (from the power grid),” Mr. Lopez said.
“There are different models right now for small solar infrastructure. You can scale it up if there are many SMEs in the area, you can also talk of a solar infrastructure grid,” he added.
Mr. Lopez added that MSMEs can focus on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) if they go down the route of adopting green practices under a “circular economy” approach.
The circular economy aims for sustainability by designing products optimized for sharing and recycling, eliminating waste.
“You can’t get easily into green technologies but at least the FMCGs can start with the circular economy models and adopt alternative materials, modern technology in their production processes that will produce more with fewer materials, less water, and less power,” Mr. Lopez said.
“Why FMCGs? Because their products have the widest reach, consumer use, (with) products going into the community. It has the fastest velocity and frequency of use and thus can have the strongest influence on consumer behavior. Their influence is bigger,” he added.
Crispian N. Lao, founding president of the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability, said at the webinar that circular economy models need to be applicable locally.
“The opportunity is there for inclusive growth among all sectors. When the bigger companies design packaging and develop locally, these types of packaging can now be made available even to MSMEs,” Mr. Lao said.
“Education is key for us to instill in youth and consumers and the general population, the importance of managing your waste,” he added. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
