ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE
The #SmartPlanet phone recycling bin uses electronic sensors to send out Smart e-load in exchange for used phones, chargers, and tablets.
PLDT, Smart tackle e-waste DENR backs Group’s e-waste disposal programs
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LDT and Smart have longstanding commitments to protecting health and the environment. One key initiative is their #SmartPlanet e-Waste Program, which uses technology to encourage an innovative way of recycling discarded electronic devices. Taking the commitment to a new level, PLDT and Smart signed a tripartite partnership this year with the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (“DENR”) for the collection, disposal and recycling of electronic and hazardous waste from cellsites and offices. WIDER COVERAGE, RAMPING UP AWARENESS The e-waste includes discarded phones, tablets, computers, chargers and device accessories, while hazardous waste includes used lead acid batteries and fiber optic cables. With the partnership,
PLDT also commits to ramping up environmental awareness and proper disposal of e-waste among its staff, employees, partners and stakeholders. The DENR partnership also supports PLDT’s and Smart’s long-running partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress for its battery recycling program. Recycling proceeds are used to support various community projects, primarily for building classrooms in remote areas. From the start of the program in 2006, the initiative has funded the construction of 44 classrooms nationwide.
(L-R) PLDT First Vice President and Head for Corporate Sustainability and Investor Relations Melissa V Vergel De Dios, DENR Environmental Management Bureau Region 3 Director Wilson L Trajeco, PLDT Vice President and Logistics Head Minerva M Agas and JMR President and CEO Maricel Zamora.
PLDT and Smart’s e-waste disposal programs are aligned with the group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG #12: Responsible Consumption and Production. << THE VIEW 19
