EcoWaste Coalition, Ateneo push for waste-free, chemical-safe classrooms

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Environmental group EcoWaste Coalition and the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health’s Center for Research and Innovation (ACRI) have called on schools to promote chemical safety and zero-waste practices during this year’s Brigada Eskwela.

In a statement on Monday, EcoWaste and ACRI expressed support for the Department of Education’s nationwide school clean-up and repair initiative and called for greater awareness of the potential health risks posed by harmful chemicals and waste in and around school premises.

READ: EcoWaste observes less litter inside voting centers during 2025 polls

“Our schools play an indispensable role in instilling environmental responsibility among students, especially in inculcating values and actions in young minds that conserve resources and avoid waste and pollution,” said Cris Luague, zero waste campaigner of EcoWaste Coalition.

The groups highlighted the need to address everyday chemical risks that students and teachers may be exposed to, including potentially harmful substances found in cleaning and sanitation products, paint, renovation materials, pest control agents, and lighting and electronic equipment.

They further urged schools to avoid hazardous disposal practices, such as open dumping and burning, which are prohibited under Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, and Republic Act No. 8749, or the Clean Air Act.

As part of this advocacy, EcoWaste and ACRI partnered with Pinyahan Elementary School to promote toxic-waste-free campuses and conduct eco-friendly clean-up activities, including the repainting of school armchairs using lead-safe paint.

“Protecting children from hazardous chemicals is a serious matter as they are more vulnerable to being affected by these substances due to their developing bodies and age-linked behaviors,” said Anna Enriquez, the advocacy lead of the ACRI-Environmental Health Program.

“Malnourished kids and those with pre-existing health conditions are notably at risk,” she added.

With the new school year set to begin on June 16, EcoWaste and ACRI emphasized the importance of providing students with safe and healthy classrooms that foster growth and effective learning, free from waste and chemical hazards. — Ryanna Aquino, INQUIRER.net, intern