Gibraltar chosen for EU-backed plastic reuse pilot

Barangay Gibraltar has been selected as a pilot community for Project Reuse Haven for All (re_haven), a European Union-funded initiative aimed at strengthening community-based reuse systems and reducing plastic waste.

The project forms part of the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative and is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to promote a green, just and sustainable future.

A recent stakeholder consultation in Gibraltar brought together barangay officials, residents, private sector representatives and potential partner organizations to discuss strategies for cutting plastic waste and promoting reuse and refilling systems at the community level.

The activity builds on the Circular Solutions Innovation Challenge, funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme, which promotes innovative business solutions for inclusive and circular cities.

NutriAsia joined the consultation to explore how it can support Project re_haven’s goals. The company said engaging directly with community stakeholders reinforces its commitment to environmental stewardship and grassroots sustainability efforts.

“In order to address the plastic pollution crisis, we need every stakeholder to do their share. This consultation with leaders of Brgy. Gibraltar allowed the project leads to engage with stakeholders so they can better understand and appreciate the project and how it can impact their community,” said Wally Panganiban, Corporate Affairs Manager of NutriAsia.

Local innovators also took part in the discussion. Among them was Tingi Station, a zero-waste store co-founded by Elke Kayle Cadangen. Inspired by growing up near Baguio’s former dumpsite in Irisan, Cadangen launched the store in 2022 to promote refill systems and reusable packaging. The shop has since become a model for circular economy practices in the city.

Salin Ph, led by CEO Krishia Ellis, also joined the consultation. Ellis, who serves as a consultant to Project re_haven, emphasized the broader cultural shift required to tackle plastic waste.

“At Salin Ph, we believe that plastic reuse is not just about reducing waste — it’s about reshaping consumption habits and empowering communities to choose sustainability every day. We are very happy with the re_haven initiative, and we are committed to helping reuse and refill become the default approach in reducing plastic waste at the source.”

Barangay Gibraltar was chosen for the pilot due to its active civic participation and track record in environmental initiatives. Punong Barangay Nemesio Huag expressed support for the program.

“Project re_haven is more than just an environmental program — it is a call for unity. By working together, we can make Gibraltar a model barangay for plastic reuse and sustainability, ensuring that our youth inherit a cleaner and greener future.”

Sangguniang Barangay Member Grace Mayos, representing women and youth, highlighted the role of younger residents.

“Women and young people are at the heart of this movement. Their creativity and energy will drive the cultural shift toward reuse and sustainability.”

SB Member Zenaida Dana, who oversees environmental concerns, added: “Environmental stewardship begins at the barangay level. Project re_haven gives us the tools to act locally while contributing to global sustainability goals.”

Project re_haven is designed to build a scalable, community-based reuse ecosystem by working closely with barangays to reduce plastic waste and promote circular economy practices. Organizers said the initiative will expand to other communities in the coming months, forming a broader network of reuse-driven local government units aligned with the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership.