Phl, Norway explore cooperation on waste management

The Philippines and Norway are exploring cooperation on sustainable waste management, recycling and plastic recovery as a Philippine delegation studied Norway’s waste management systems and circular economy practices.

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila organized a study tour to Norway from 4 to 9 October, bringing together government and private sector representatives to examine Extended Producer Responsibility, Deposit Return Systems and sustainable waste management.

Led by Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Jonas R. Leones, the delegation included representatives from Evergreen Labs, Philippine Spring Water Resources Inc. (Nature’s Spring), the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability, GIZ Philippines and the Philippines-Norway Business Council.

The participants visited Norwegian organizations and companies involved in waste collection, sorting and recycling, including Infinitum, ROAF, OMRÅ, TOMRA and Grønt Punkt Norge. They also held discussions with Norway’s Ministry of Climate and Environment and Norfund.

“Moving towards a circular economy takes collaboration across government, business and communities. Norway is pleased to share our experience and learn from the Philippines as both countries work to reduce waste, improve recycling and make better use of resources. This visit is an opportunity to turn shared ambitions into practical cooperation,” Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Kristian Netland said.