MANILA, Philippines — In its concerted effort to shift public consciousness from using plastic to reusable bags, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), non-government organizations (NGOs), and some of the country’s major malls expressed on Thursday their commitment to solve the country’s garbage problem.

In a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by the DENR, National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), with Earth Day Network Philippines (EDNP), Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association (PAGASA), Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), and supermarkets, namely Ayala Malls, Ever Malls, Hi-Top Supermarket, Isetann Malls, Makro, Robinsons Supermart, Savemore, SM Hypermart, and SM Supermarkets.

Paje noted that majority of the country’s garbage is composed of plastics like plastic bottles and bags that impede the free flow of rivers and other bodies of water.

He noted that in 2009 alone, about 300,000 kilograms of plastic bags and some 20,000 kilograms of plastic bottles have been collected from shoreline and recreational activities.

Under the agreement, the EDNP, led by its president and former DENR Secretary Elisea Gozun, shall act as the campaign coordinator that will bring together various stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the campaign.

The NSWMC shall assist in securing government support for the campaign both at the national and local levels, and provide technical assistance regarding solid waste management and the hazards of plastic use, among others.