The United Nations Industrial Development Organization, Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau, Department of Health and BAN Toxics, together with EcoWaste Coalition and Healthcare without Harm-Southeast Asia partnered to lead the launching of the five-year project funded by Global Environment Facility.

The groups marked the launch with a symbolic giant mask, representing the powerful intersections between environmental justice and public health. It underscored the urgency to tackle these interconnected challenges, particularly as discussions unfold at the ongoing COP 28 climate talks in Dubai.

DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of the event launching as a catalyst to strengthen the capacities of public and private organizations towards sustainable and effective management of healthcare waste.

He also added that this project will strengthen the partnership between UNIDO and the Philippines to deliver long-term interventions in pursuit of sustainable development goals.

Teddy Monroy, UNIDO Country Representative, also joined the event and shared a message of support.