The program, part of their "Be Kind. Recycle." initiative, aims to promote responsible consumption and raise awareness about the importance of recycling electronic waste (e-waste) among students and academic communities.
E-waste, which includes discarded gadgets and devices with plugs and batteries, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, only 20 percent of global e-waste is recycled properly.
PLDT and Smart are addressing this issue by installing e-waste collection bins in 13 schools and preparing to expand into 11 additional campuses.
“We believe in the power of the Filipino youth to drive positive change,” said Jacqueline N. Bocalan, Smart’s VP and head of Channel Management. “Through this program, we provide them with accessible means to dispose of their e-waste and support the circular economy.”
Collected e-waste is sent to accredited facilities where valuable components are harvested for recycling. This initiative aligns with the Philippines' commitment to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change by reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
“We believe that the circular economy will contribute not only toward addressing the ongoing triple planetary crisis on climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, but will also unlock opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and value creation across sectors,” said PLDT and Smart first vice president and chief sustainability officer Melissa Vergel de Dios.
“In particular, we would like to work closely with the youth and academe as they can be our force multipliers in creating awareness and mobilizing for action to help preserve the planet for them and for future generations,” Vergel de Dios said.
PLDT and Smart are also encouraging the general public to participate by dropping off e-waste at select stores and SM Mall Cyberzones.
