Philippines enforces law requiring companies to pay for plastic waste management

The Philippines has enacted a new law requiring large companies to pay for their plastic waste, aiming to reduce ocean pollution. This "Extended Producer Responsibility" law, effective since last year, mandates companies to manage a portion of their plastic packaging waste. Currently, about half of eligible companies have started programs under the law. They must cover 20% of their plastic footprint, increasing to 80% by 2028. The law has already removed 486,000 tons of plastic waste from the environment, exceeding its initial target. Companies can meet their obligations by purchasing plastic credits, which fund waste collection efforts. However, challenges remain in reducing new plastic production and redesigning products for sustainability.