DAVAO CITY—Aside from supporting “green” candidates, an environmental group urged both the public and aspiring village officials to use eco-friendly materials and be mindful of plastic waste to protect the environment as they prepare for the campaign period for the Oct. 30 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.
Anticipating the surge of election materials as the campaign kicks off on Oct. 19, Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability Inc. (Idis), urged candidates to strive for a zero-waste approach, including the use of social media and multimedia strategies to engage voters.
“Candidates are strongly urged to choose environmentally friendly alternatives to minimize the use of paper and plastic,” said Mark Peñalver, Idis executive director, in a statement.
Idis cited a study by Ecowaste Coalition, which found tarpaulins made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to contain high levels of carcinogenic substances harmful to human health.
The group is also pushing for the integration of local environmental issues into the campaign planning and policy agendas of village and youth council candidates.
Idis also reminded candidates to avoid nailing their posters on trees, a violation of Republic Act No. 3571, which prohibits the cutting, destroying or injuring of planted or growing trees, flowering plants and shrubs or plants of scenic value along public roads, in plazas, parks, school premises or any other public ground.
Commitment
“Idis remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding our natural environment throughout the entirety of the campaign period,” it said.
The group also urged the public to support candidates with strong environmental awareness and dedication to sustainability, stressing that voters must scrutinize the aspirants’ performance, actions and proposed policies involving environmental issues.
“Voters are strongly urged to exercise educated and careful decision-making while choosing their barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials,” Idis said.
The group reminded candidates and voters to avoid leaving trash after the election.
“Candidates are strongly urged to conduct thorough cleanup activities and ensure the proper collection and disposal of their campaign materials, including flyers and posters,” said the group, as it urged incoming barangay and SK officials to prioritize local environmental protection in their agenda to ensure that local communities would remain green and healthy for future generations.