Sustainability

Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

Forbes Asia recognizes Filipino green logistics leader Mober in ‘100 to Watch List of 2024’

Written by adobo magazine

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Mober, a frontrunner in green logistics services in the Philippines, has been recognized in Forbes Asia’s 100 to Watch List of 2024 for its significant impact in the industry and consistent financial growth in the Asia Pacific region.

The Forbes Asia’s 100 to Watch List this year focuses on companies and startups that have achieved steady growth, even as venture capital funding in the region hit a seven-year low last year.

This year, Mober secured an additional $6 million in funding from the South East Asia Clean Energy Facility II (SEACEF II), managed by Clime Capital, building on the $2 million investment received from RT Heptagon Holdings (RTHH) last year. This funding advances Mober’s mission of providing greener logistics solutions in the Philippines.

Mober is one of only three companies from the Philippines that have made it to the list. It is also one of the five listed companies from the construction and logistics industry.

To qualify for the list, companies must be headquartered in the Asia Pacific region, be privately owned and for-profit, have an annual revenue not exceeding $50 million, and have received no more than $100 million in total funding as of August 07, 2024.

Mober CEO Dennis Ng expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition underscores the global importance of our mission in sustainable logistics. At Mober, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping businesses achieve net-zero carbon emissions with zero capital expenditures, paving the way for a greener future.”

Mober started in 2015 and was initially designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) solve their on-demand logistical needs. Despite economic turmoil due to the pandemic in October 2021, Mober saw the need to trailblaze the green movement and made its bold move and invested in its first EV fleet. It has now become a business-to-business (B2B) platform facilitating sustainable delivery for some of the Philippines’ retail giants such as IKEA Philippines, SM Appliance Center, Nestle Philippines, and Nespresso, as well as renowned logistics companies Maersk and Kuehne+Nagel.

Mober currently operates a fleet of over 60 electric vehicles (EVs), including e-vans and e-trucks, and aims to expand to 238 electric trucks by year-end.

Mober has invested in its proprietary BMS (Battery Management System) software to enhance the performance and efficiency of its EV fleet. This investment allows Mober to optimize battery usage, improve safety, gather real-time data for better fleet management, and extend battery lifespan. By doing so, Mober strengthens its commitment to sustainability and ensures the seamless scalability of its operations as the fleet grows.

Mober also announced early this year the development of its advanced Transport Management System (TMS), designed to optimize fleet route planning and delivery schedules, enhancing resource management while significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon output.

In addition to its environmental initiatives, Mober is committed to inclusivity by training female drivers and assemblers, highlighting the company’s dedication to workforce diversity. Mober’s Green Delivery Specialists (GDS), its EV drivers, exemplify the company’s high standards of service and sustainability.

Looking ahead, Mober plans to establish a network of charging stations from Pasay City to Tacloban, strategically positioned every 150 to 200 kilometers, to support its vision of sustainable logistics across the region.

Aligning with the mandates of the Electric Vehicles and Charging Systems (EVIDA) Act, Mober’s initiatives reinforce the Philippines’ commitment to eco-driven policies. Through its pioneering approach, Mober provides businesses with a clear pathway to decarbonize their last and mid-mile delivery systems, ushering in a new era of business sustainability.

To learn more about Mober and its green logistics services, you may visit https://www.moberdelivery.com/.

August 30, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

RAHP, Farm Top, and Megaworld team up for inner-city agricultural project benefiting Taguig residents and nutrition-at-risk communities

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — This July 23, a hydroponic farm will be unveiled by the three organizations that brought it to life: top property developer Megaworld Corporation, innovative agricultural enterprise Farm Top, and food bank Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP). Called the Good Food Farm McKinley after RAHP’s branded urban farms, or GFF McKinley for short, it sits on approximately 400 square meters of untenable land, lent for the project by Megaworld. RAHP, for its part, provided the funding for the greenhouse structure, which includes installation of the footing and foundation, nets for shading and garden walling, UV plastic roofing, the grow table frames, and the water, electrical, and storage systems, among other requirements.

Meanwhile, Farm Top manages the farm’s day-to-day operations and marketsthe harvests to nearby commercial buyers and residents. According to Farm Top’s President and CEO Danny Dy, romaine and green ice lettuce have already been planted, with the first harvest (happening from July 15 to 20) projected to yield up to 200 kgs.

The project is an important undertaking for all the stakeholders involved, a sustainable model farm that contributes to a city’s economic, environmental, and social resilience. By using hydroponic technology – a soil-free farming method that uses less water and no artificial growing nutrients and pesticides – idle land is utilized to provide fresh, organic produce to nearby residents and communities in a distribution mode that minimizes carbon footprint.

Moreover, profit from the sale of the harvests will support RAHP’s nutrition programs in Brgy. Ususan, Taguig, and Tondo, Manila, with surplus produce supplementing the hot meals served in both program sites. The nutrition project is a cornerstone in RAHP’s programs, providing much-needed intervention among nutritionally at-risk individuals that including pregnant women, lactating mothers, school children, PWDs, and the elderly.

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Good Food Farm insert1

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Good Food Farm insert3

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Good Food Farm insert5

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Good Food Farm insert4

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Good Food Farm insert2

The farm will be open to the public to spread advocacy for the fight against hunger and mitigating food wastage. By banding together, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Megaworld Corporation, and Farm Top are leading the way in the shift toward a sustainable food system and the goal of a holistically resilient city.

July 18, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

Okada Manila champions environmental sustainability on World Environment Day 2024

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — In support of the United Nations’ call to restore ecosystems, Okada Manila joined the global community in celebrating World Environment Day 2024, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability with this year’s theme, “Generation Restoration.” The focus is on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, highlighting the urgent need to revive natural spaces for a sustainable future.

Global threat to ecosystems

Ecosystems worldwide, including forests, drylands, farmlands, and lakes, are threatened and reaching a tipping point. This year’s World Environment Day focuses on land restoration, desertification, and building drought resilience under the slogan, “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration.” The current generation is the first to witness severe environmental degradation and the last with the chance to counter it and achieve global climate and biodiversity goals.

Key environment-friendly initiatives

In alignment with “Generation Restoration,” Okada Manila has implemented several key initiatives that underscore its dedication to environmental stewardship, categorized as follows:

Land Restoration

Tree Planting Activities: In partnership with organizations like Nuvali, ABS-CBN Bantay Kalikasan, and the Motolite-PBSP Balik Baterya program, Okada Manila has engaged in tree planting activities that contribute to reforestation efforts in critical areas such as the Marikina Watershed and La Mesa Dam.
Plant Propagation: The Nursery at Okada Manila propagates, stocks, and grows plants for internal and external landscapes, replacing existing plants due to damage or senescence, and serves as a recuperation area for indoor plants displayed around the property.

Marine Restoration

Coastal Cleanups: The resort organized coastal cleanups of Manila Bay in 2018 and conducted another cleanup drive in September 2023. These efforts demonstrate the resort’s ongoing commitment to the environment and the preservation of marine life.
Zero Water Waste: Okada Manila utilizes state-of-the-art sewage treatment plants and ultra-filtration system technology to achieve zero water waste discharge, ensuring that water used in operations is treated and recycled, thereby minimizing environmental impact.

Sustainable Practices and Green Spaces

The Garden: Adjacent to the Asian cuisine restaurants, The Garden features Japanese pocket gardens and a gazebo with flowering vines overlooking Manila Bay, enhancing guests’ dining and strolling experiences.
The Zen Garden: Designed for relaxation, meditation, and contemplation, The Zen Garden places special emphasis on creating harmony, tranquility, and balance with every plant and rock.
The Herb Garden: A dedicated space for growing herbs used by The Retreat Spa, located in the Secret Garden and maintained organically to avoid contamination and insects.
The Winter Garden: Featuring the Giant Fern (Angiospteris evecta), a threatened Philippine plant, adding to the forest-like atmosphere of the property.
The Tropics at Cove Manila: Creates a tropical atmosphere with lush plants, pebbles, and white sand, enhancing the overall experience for guests enjoying the indoor pool.

“At Okada Manila, we are committed to building and designing an integrated resort that balances economic, environmental, and social considerations to ensure long-term viability and positive impacts,” said Byron Yip, President and Chief Operating Officer of Okada Manila. “This means adopting environmentally friendly practices, managing resources efficiently, and reducing waste and carbon footprints to combat pollution and climate change. We have the power and the knowledge to reverse the harm and restore the environment — if we act now.”

Okada Manila invites everyone to celebrate World Environment Day 2024 and participate in ongoing efforts to restore and protect the environment. Through these initiatives, Okada Manila is making an impact that can pave the way for a sustainable future.

July 2, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

Tetra Pak is on track in sustainability agenda with 20% greenhouse gas emissions reduction across value chain

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Tetra Pak recently launched its 25th “Sustainability Report,” which tracks the progress the company has made against its sustainability agenda. It focuses on five interdependent areas: food systems, circularity, climate, nature, and social sustainability.

Launched on United Nation’s World Environment Day, the company’s “Sustainability Report FY23” shows a 20% reduction in value chain GHG emissions and a 47% reduction in GHG emissions across its operations since 2019. The latter puts Tetra Pak on track to meet its target of net zero GHG emissions in its operations by 2030 and supports the company’s long-term ambition to work together with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders and achieve net-zero GHG emissions across the value chain by 2050.

Another significant milestone saw the launch of an aseptic beverage carton featuring a paper-based barrier, reducing its carbon footprint by a third (33%) and bringing the company a step closer to developing the world’s most sustainable food package. This world-first resulted from a €100 million investment in packaging research and development in 2023, with the same investment planned annually for the next five to 10 years.

Adolfo Orive, President and CEO of Tetra Pak, commented, “Collaboration across the food industry is ever more important to feed a growing population sustainably. Our global presence and end-to-end solutions give us daily opportunities to collaborate with stakeholders across the value chain, from farmers and food producers to suppliers, policymakers, consumers, and others. We understand the responsibility that comes with this role. We remain committed to playing our part to transform the world’s food systems to ensure they are more secure, resilient, and sustainable.”

Tetra Pak implements Cartons for Communities (CFC) in the Philippines, a comprehensive initiative to promote carton recycling and sustainability. The program includes education and awareness, collection and infrastructure, and advocacy and policy, enabling Tetra Pak to effectively collaborate with schools, communities, and local governments to promote recycling.

Through CFC, Tetra Pak Philippines has doubled its growth in recycling volume compared to the previous year. This surge is part of a consistent upward trend, with a 23% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) observed since 2020. “Our collaborative initiatives have expanded across the nation, working directly with 15 local government units (LGUs) throughout Region 4A (Calabarzon) and the city of Baguio. These partnerships are pivotal in driving our vision for a greener future as we continue to innovate and invest in sustainable practices,” Catherine Chua, Sustainability Manager for the Philippines at Tetra Pak, said.

Tetra Pak’s “Sustainability Report FY23” highlights company achievements in the past year and its ongoing initiatives to protect food, people, and the planet. These include:

Expanding School Feeding Programmes: The company helped 64 million children in 49 countries access milk and other nutritious beverages through School Feeding Programmes.
Accelerating Recycling: The amount of carton packages collected and sent for recycling worldwide rose 7% compared to 2022. Additionally, there was a 14% increase in the volume of polyAl sent for recycling.
Again, getting recognition for Leadership in Corporate Transparency and Performance: Tetra Pak was included in the CDP Forests’ A List for the eighth consecutive year. Additionally, the company received an “A-” rating in Water Security despite its first year of reporting in this area.
Actively implementing the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

The total FY23 report can be found here.

More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak.com.

July 1, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

The International Rice Research Institute launches project to make agricultural practices more sustainable

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

LOS BAÑOS, PHILIPPINES — The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan, the International Rice Research Institute, and their partners gathered at IRRI Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna on June 24 for the kick-off meeting of the “Development of Rice Cropping Systems Toward Carbon Neutrality and Food Security in ASEAN Countries” project.

Rice provides more than 20% of global caloric intake. While the crop has been crucial for food security, it is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with methane from rice fields accounting for about 11% of agricultural emissions globally. This five-year initiative, a key component of the ASEAN-CGIAR Innovate for Food Regional Program, targets climate neutrality and circular agriculture by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions in rice production. Starting in the Philippines and Vietnam, it aims to set the stage for sustainable agricultural practices across ASEAN countries.

Dr. Joanna Kane-Potaka emphasized the significance of the collaboration, “This project is a transformative milestone for agriculture in the ASEAN region. It signifies a concerted effort to integrate sustainability into rice farming, a critical step toward reducing the agricultural sector’s environmental impact. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with MAFF and pioneer solutions that benefit the agriculture sector.”

“Japan is proud to be the first Asian country to contribute to this program, which aims to enhance the resilience of ASEAN agri-food systems against climate change while achieving food security. I believe in IRRI’s research, development, and communication capabilities in delivering and scaling low-carbon rice cropping systems successfully,” said Teruya Sakaida, MAFF Deputy Director General.

The project is set to initially focus on the Philippines and Vietnam, with potential expansion to other ASEAN countries based on demand and partnership development, and will run from 2024 to 2029. With overall objectives centered on developing low-carbon rice cropping systems, this initiative is expected to produce scaling strategies for the following objectives:

Reducing GHG Emissions: Identify hotspots through life cycle assessment and validate rice innovations that enhance productivity and reduce GHG emissions
Developing Low-Carbon Practices: Co-design and co-develop low-carbon crop management practices and cropping systems with stakeholders
Ensuring Food Security: Develop and propose strategies for scaling these innovations across ASEAN countries to ensure long-term food security and achieve carbon neutrality

Implementation strategies involve co-developing and testing integrated low-carbon farming practices. This includes characterizing rice-growing environments to identify key intervention areas for reducing GHG emissions, establishing partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders, and testing the performance of these practices through on-station and on-farm experiments. Additionally, scaling strategies will be developed, engaging the private sector mechanisms to ensure widespread adoption.

The project will also screen new component technologies for reducing GHG emissions and improving rice productivity. This involves creating an inventory of promising technologies, evaluating their performance, and publishing technology briefs and scientific papers.

“This project represents a pivotal moment in our efforts to combat climate change while ensuring food security in the ASEAN region. By integrating innovative low-carbon practices into rice farming, we aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly and enhance agricultural sustainability. Our collaboration with MAFF and ASEAN member states will drive impactful solutions that benefit both farmers and the environment, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for rice production,” said Dr. Jongsoo Shin, IRRI Regional Director for Asia and the ASEAN-CGIAR Innovate for Food Program Lead.

July 1, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

SM continues ocean conservation effort with coastal clean-up projects

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — SM Supermalls, through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), continue to drive active participation in ocean conservation with the latest leg of SM’s Coastal Clean-up drive, held on June 08 in celebration of World Oceans Day.

This year, SM was able to collect more than 15,000 kg of trash with the help of 2,500 SM Employees and volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide.

Since 2014, SM’s coastal clean-up initiative has grown to include more coastal locations and volunteers, showing the true impact of SM’s advocacy and the power of community participation in environmental stewardship and marine conservation efforts.

SM Cares’ Coastal Clean-up project is part of the organization’s Programs on Environment. SM Cares also has supporting initiatives focused on children and the youth, women and breastfeeding mothers, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.

SM creates stronger ocean conservation initiatives giving New Waves of Impact during Coastal Clean up Projects INSERT 1

SM creates stronger ocean conservation initiatives giving New Waves of Impact during Coastal Clean up Projects INSERT 2

June 20, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

Mober drives green logistics further with Clime Capital investment amounting to PHP 350 million

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Mober, a frontrunner in green logistics services in the Philippines, has garnered an investment of up to US$6 million, or around PHP 350 million, from the South East Asia Clean Energy Facility II (SEACEF II), managed by Clime Capital, a Singapore-based fund manager focused on accelerating the low-carbon transition. This new funding, through both equity and convertible notes, will bolster Mober’s fleet of electric vehicles to 238 and help establish a new 3,000 sqm charging facility by early 2025.

Leading the charge in sustainable logistics, Mober serves top-tier clients like IKEA, Kuehne+Nagel, Nespresso, Monde Nissin, Nestle, Maersk, and SM Appliance Center with a fleet that is entirely electric. The company is also enhancing its technological edge with the development of a cutting-edge Battery Management System (BMS) to increase the efficiency and lifespan of its EVs.

To support its long-haul operations, Mober will strategically place pocket charging points across Luzon’s northern and southern regions. The company sources its EVs directly from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), tailoring each vehicle to specific operational requirements to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.

Philippine EV startup Mober drives innovation in green logistics with PHP350M Clime Capital investment 2 — Mober’s latest truck fleet

Dennis Ng, CEO of Mober, stated, “Not all funding is created equal. Having Clime Capital as an investor adds significant credibility to Mober and solidifies our commitment to sustainability. This partnership not only enhances our reputation but also accelerates our progress toward achieving our ambitious sustainability goals. We are deeply thankful to Mason and Joshua for their trust and commitment to our vision.”

In addition to its environmental initiatives, Mober is committed to fostering inclusivity by training female drivers and assemblers, underscoring the company’s dedication to workforce diversity. Mober also takes pride in its EV drivers, known as Green Delivery Specialists (GDS), who exemplify the company’s commitment to high standards of service and sustainability.

Joshua Kramer, Chief Investment Officer at Clime Capital, said, “We are delighted to provide much-needed capital in this first-of-a-kind EV investment in the Philippines. Clime Capital’s blended finance model enables clean-energy entrepreneurs to scale their businesses to achieve financial sustainability while also generating positive environmental impacts.”

Mason Wallick, Chief Operating Officer at Clime Capital, said, “Mober’s ambition to provide fully electric B2B delivery services is a compelling example of a first-mover business that can accelerate the low carbon transition through our strategic investment. Clime Capital’s purpose is to help these businesses accelerate their growth.”

June 11, 2024
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Press Release, Sustainability

Key stakeholders gather to promote solar energy at Let’s Go Renewable 101 event in Cavite

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

CAVITE, PHILIPPINES — Last May 24, the Let’s Go Renewable 101 event brought together key stakeholders, experts, and advocates to discuss the vital role of solar energy in achieving an affordable, locally available, and clean energy-powered future for the Philippines. With the growing urgency to address climate change and the need for energy independence, the gathering served as a crucial platform to inspire and encourage Filipinos to explore the benefits and possibilities of solar energy and to foster a greener, more equitable, and resilient energy sector. The two-day event featured engaging presentations and discussions that showcased the practical advantages and transformative potential of solar power for homes and businesses.

Brenda Valerio, Country Director AT New Energy Nexus Philippines, shared the profound impact solar power can have on transforming the energy landscape in the Philippines. She emphasized the various organizations the NGO has supported and funded in their endeavors to innovate and make solar energy systems accessible to Filipinos. Brenda further underscored the potential of solar power to create a more just, equitable, and inclusive clean energy sector.

Clozette x Renewable Energy Workshop RJ202883 — Brenda Valerio, Country Director of New Energy Nexus Philippines, shares about the organizations they’ve helped fund to make solar energy accessible to Filipinos.

Clozette x Renewable Energy Workshop RJ203185 — Brenda Valerio, Country Director of New Energy Nexus Philippines, shares about the organizations they’ve helped fund to make solar energy accessible to Filipinos.

Arturo Tahup, Director for Community Resilience at the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), addressed several common solar energy myths.

One prevalent myth is solar energy is too expensive. “Renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind are more affordable and cleaner than traditional fossil fuels,” Arturo explained. “Since these resources are indigenous to the Philippines, they offer a cost-effective solution for energy needs.” He also highlighted that adopting solar energy can lead to significant cost savings for both households and businesses.

Another barrier is the perception that solar energy is too technical, which may deter others from exploring their options. “With proper education and training, setting up solar energy systems is straightforward,” Arturo said. “Communities can invest in learning about solar technology since it is accessible and manageable with proper guidance.”

Arturo also addressed the misconception that solar energy is too unreliable. “Solar energy, being abundant and indigenous to the Philippines, is one of the most reliable energy sources available to Filipinos. Unlike finite and imported fossil fuels, solar energy provides a consistent and sustainable power supply.”

Additionally, Arturo shared inspiring stories of how solar energy projects have positively impacted various communities, providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions that have significantly improved the quality of life for many Filipinos.

Filipinos interested in embarking on their journey toward solar energy adoption are highly encouraged to begin by assessing their energy needs and consumption. To assist with this process, these user-friendly solar calculators are recommended:

For those seeking credible solar installers, the following resources offer valuable assistance:

Implementing solar energy systems offers short- and long-term benefits for individual consumers and enterprises in the Philippines. These advantages may include significant savings on electrical bills and operations expenses and the potential to generate new revenue streams through innovative solar power applications. By embracing solar energy, Filipinos not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also enhance the resilience of the nation’s energy system. Ultimately, this transition can lead to an improved quality of life for all, fostering a sustainable and thriving future for the Philippines.

Clozette x Renewable Energy Workshop RJ203281

Clozette x Renewable Energy Workshop RJ203166

June 11, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

Garnier hosts beach clean-up to promote sustainability and environmentalism

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MUMBAI, INDIA — In a powerful display of commitment to sustainability, Garnier, the world’s largest beauty brand certified by Cruelty Free International, hosted an impactful beach clean-up drive at Mumbai’s iconic Juhu Beach as a build up for World Environment Day. In addition to Mumbai, this drive was conducted in Juhu, Mumbai. The beach clean-up initiative, part of Garnier’s ongoing Green Beauty program, aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire Gen Z and Millennials to adopt sustainable practices.

The clean-up drive saw a dedicated team of volunteers, led by renowned Bollywood actress Pooja Hegde, along with social media influencers and college students, and tackled the issue of plastic pollution head on. Supported by over 2,000 volunteers across eight cities — Mumbai, Chennai, Vizag, Pondicherry, Puri, Goa, Mangalore, and Kasargod — the event demonstrated the collective impact achievable through unified action. This effort aligns perfectly with Garnier’s ambitious Green Beauty initiative, an end-to-end sustainability commitment launched in India in March 2021, showcasing the brand’s unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility.

Garnier has partnered with Plastics for Change, a social enterprise launched with a mission to use plastic waste as a resource for addressing social issues, collecting, and recycling plastic, while enabling informal waste collectors, waste entrepreneurs, and their families to improve their overall livelihood. Since 2020, Garnier has been partnering with Plastics for Change to collect and recycle plastic, while enabling informal waste collectors, waste entrepreneurs, and their families to earn a stable income and improve their overall livelihood. Since 2020, Garnier has helped collect the equivalent of over 539 tons of plastic and support more than 3,200 beneficiaries.

Pooja shared her enthusiasm: “I’m inspired by Garnier’s resolve towards creating a sustainable movement through small yet impactful steps such as a beach clean-up. I urge everyone to take one green step in their daily lives. We after all have only one earth to take care of.”

Anshuman Wanchu, General Manager of Garnier at L’Oréal India, said, “At the core of everything we do is a drive to create beauty that is good for you and for the planet. We are committed to moving to Zero Virgin Plastic in our packaging by 2030 and today, 65% of our products are made from renewed or recycled plastics. While we do all this at our end, we want to take consumers along as we encourage them to take #OneGreenStep. The Beach Green-up across India was one such initiative as we look to encourage and inspire young consumers to live more sustainably.”

Andrew Almack, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Plastics For Change, added, “We all need to do our part to prevent plastic from entering the ocean and to use plastic waste as a resource for generating life-changing income for the waste collectors who rely on this as their source of livelihood. We are grateful for our partnership with Garnier to help change both the social and environmental impact of plastic pollution.”

June 7, 2024
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Brand & Business, Press Release, Sustainability

L’Oréal and Watsons kick-off the first green joint business plan in beauty and wellness sectors in the Philippines

Written by Atelier Bubble Tea

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — L’Oréal and Watsons recently announced the kickoff of the first Green Joint Business Plan in the Philippines to accelerate sustainability in the beauty and wellness sectors. L’Oréal and Watsons are joining forces to create programs that will help tackle plastic waste, raise awareness on sustainable choices, and provide livelihood opportunities for the vulnerable population in the Philippines.

“This first green joint business plan in the Philippines is a historic milestone in the longstanding partnership between L’Oréal and Watsons in the Philippines. Beyond our responsible business practices, I’m very proud that we are coming together to be catalysts for change by acting with urgency and helping solve the pressing environmental and social issues in the Philippines. It’s the right thing to do,” said Yannick Raynaud, Country Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines.

Danilo Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons in the Philippines, shared, “At Watsons we have updated our brand promise from ‘Look Good, Feel Great’ to ‘Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great’ to signify our strong commitment to do more sustainable practices. This first-ever green joint business plan is a comprehensive approach to driving collective impact on our planet, our people, and our products. I am inspired by the work we are doing with L’Oréal and the positive impact that we can drive in the Philippines, and hope that programs like this can inspire other companies to do what is right for the environment.”

Watsons Join Forces on Sustainability ins 2

Plastic pollution is a major challenge in the Philippines. In 2022, the Philippine government implemented the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)1 Bill for the recovery and management of post-consumer recycled plastic. In 2023, L’Oréal has recovered, upcycled, and recycled 100% of its plastic volume in the Philippines, exceeding the 20% target set by the government for the first year of implementation.

With the Green Joint Business Plan, L’Oréal, through its sustainability program L’Oréal for the Future, and Watsons, with its brand promise to “Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great,” are accelerating collective transformation towards a business model that respects planetary boundaries, empowers the business ecosystem, and reinforces commitments to drive inclusive growth.

The joint collaboration programs include:

The Recycle for Rewards program led by Garnier, a brand under the L’Oréal Groupe. Consumers are encouraged to donate empty beauty and wellness bottles at select Watsons stores to get discounts. The initiative starts on June 2024 in 23 participating Watsons stores in Metro Manila this year.
To help consumers make sustainable choices, L’Oréal is ramping up the listing of products under Watsons’ Sustainable Choices category with products that are refillable, made with recycled content and sustainable paper and with ingredients that are from bio-based, abundant, or circular processes. An example of this is Garnier’s Micellar water that is made of 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET plastic (R-PET). Cartons used in L’Oréal’s packaging are made of FSC-certified paper.
All point-of-sale materials (POSMs) used by L’Oréal in Watsons stores are 100% eco-designed. They follow the 3R strategy that involves reducing the weight of products and packaging by designing them with smaller dimensions and lighter materials whenever possible. Additionally, L’Oréal aims to replace traditional materials with alternatives that have a better environmental footprint, making the m more suitable for reuse and recyclability.
Watsons is also supporting L’Oréal’s Digital Beauty Academy, a social inclusion program that provides training on beauty, wellness, and social commerce with the goal of equipping individuals with valuable skills to thrive in the digital space and gain livelihood opportunities.
L’Oréal will support Watsons’ Alagang Pangkalusugan medical and wellness program, that aims to uplift overall wellbeing of vulnerable communities. The Alagang Pangkalusugan program will extend to Metro Manila, Palawan, Bacolod, Iloilo, Pampanga this year.
L’Oréal is upskilling brand ambassadors and staff of Watsons on sustainability and conscious consumption, utilizing the L’Oréal For the Future e-learning module.

Under its L’Oréal For the Future commitments, L’Oréal will transition 100% of plastic used in its packaging to be recycled or bio-sourced by 2030. L’Oréal is also working for 95% of its product ingredients to be derived from bio-based sources, abundant minerals, or circular processes by 2030.

June 4, 2024
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Forbes Asia recognizes Filipino green logistics leader Mober in ‘100 to Watch List of 2024’

RAHP, Farm Top, and Megaworld team up for inner-city agricultural project benefiting Taguig residents and nutrition-at-risk communities

Okada Manila champions environmental sustainability on World Environment Day 2024

Global threat to ecosystems