MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) called for sustained action to reduce waste and protect ecosystems as the country observes World Clean and Green Week from 17 to 23 September.

The observance traces its roots to Clean Up the World, a global initiative that originated in Australia in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme. In 1993, Proclamation No. 244 formally institutionalized its observance in the Philippines to encourage collective action for cleaner communities and ecosystem protection.

The CCC underscored the urgency of translating this commitment into everyday practice as the Philippines generated an estimated 60,760 tons of waste per day in 2025.

“Clean communities begin with the choices we make each day—what we consume, what we discard, and whether materials are reused, recycled or allowed to become waste,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje.

Waste that is improperly managed can clog waterways and drainage systems, worsen flooding, pollute rivers and coastal areas, damage ecosystems, and expose communities to health and climate risks. Organic waste disposed of in landfills also produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Borje stressed that responsibility must be shared, but not treated as equal. Households and communities can practice waste reduction, segregation, reuse, recycling and composting, while local governments, businesses and national agencies must ensure that appropriate systems, infrastructure and incentives are in place.

“We cannot place the entire burden on individuals when sustainable choices depend on accessible collection services, recovery facilities, responsible product design and markets for reusable and recyclable materials,” he said. “Everyday discipline must be matched by effective systems.”

The CCC said stronger waste management supports both climate mitigation and adaptation. Reducing waste and recovering materials can lower emissions and ease pressure on natural resources, while cleaner waterways and healthier ecosystems can strengthen communities against flooding and other climate impacts.

These efforts complement the National Climate Change Action Plan, the National Climate Risk Management Framework, the National Adaptation Plan 2023–2050, and the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan.

“The World Clean and Green Week reminds us that clean-up activities are important, but they cannot be the endpoint. The real measure of progress is how rarely waste reaches our streets, rivers and seas in the first place,” Borje said.

The CCC, as the lead policy-making body of the government on climate change, continues to coordinate, monitor and evaluate climate action and promote policies that support low-carbon, climate-resilient and sustainable development.

For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities and partnerships, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.