As the world celebrates Earth Month, the Philippines is facing a critical environmental crisis with plastic and marine pollution taking center stage. According to a report by earth.org, the country is heavily reliant on single-use plastics, generating a staggering 2.7 million tons of waste annually. This issue is exacerbated by an inadequate waste management system, leading to approximately 20% of plastic waste ending up in Philippine waters, posing a serious threat to marine biodiversity.
In response to this urgent environmental challenge, Robinsons Department Store has launched a new initiative called the Eco Corner collection. This curated selection features eco-friendly brands that prioritize sustainability and support local craftsmanship. As one of the largest retailers in the country, Robinsons Department Store is committed to promoting environmentally conscious products and supplier practices across a wide range of categories, including apparel, beauty, and homeware.
With the theme of Earth Day 2024 being “Planet vs. Plastics,” the Eco Corner collection aims to inspire customers to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. By recycling and reducing waste, individuals can make a significant impact on the environment and help keep the planet clean and free of trash. One easy way to contribute to this effort is by using reusable bottles, such as Healthy Human’s stainless steel insulated flask, available in various sizes and colors to suit different preferences.
Another brand featured in the Eco Corner collection is Curated Home, offering eco-friendly items like wooden food trays and cake trays that are both stylish and sustainable. For women and young teens, Halia provides biodegradable sanitary napkins made from organic bamboo, which decompose in just two years compared to traditional plastic pads. Additionally, Filipino businesses like Tindahan are highlighted for their carefully crafted decor items made from indigenous materials, providing a sustainable alternative for shoppers.
Robinsons Department Store also supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local businesses that produce high-quality sustainable products. By showcasing these brands, the department store aims to make it easier for customers to support local businesses and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Shoppers can find these eco-friendly products in all Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide, as well as through their e-commerce channels on Lazada Mall and Shopee Mall.
In addition to Robinsons Department Store’s Eco Corner collection, international apparel label Lee has introduced new sustainable summer pieces, including items made partly of Tencel denim. Tencel is a type of denim made from renewable wood sources, offering a comfortable and flexible fit that aligns with a sustainable lifestyle. Avon Naturals has also expanded its range of sustainable products, further contributing to the growing movement towards eco-friendly alternatives in the beauty and personal care industry.
As individuals and businesses come together to address the pressing issue of plastic and marine pollution, initiatives like the Eco Corner collection at Robinsons Department Store and the introduction of sustainable products by Lee and Avon Naturals are steps in the right direction towards a cleaner and greener future for the Philippines and the planet as a whole. By making conscious choices and supporting eco-friendly brands, we can all play a part in protecting our environment for future generations.