CREDIT: https://pia.gov.ph
In the heart of Misamis Occidental, a profound message echoes from the halls of La Salle University, Ozamiz City. Engr. Esmael Larubis, an esteemed environmental sustainability officer, recently took to the platform of Let’s Talk MisOcc on Earth Month to address a critical issue plaguing our planet – the rampant consumption of plastic. “If you want to quench your thirst, then use a tumbler; if grocery shopping, use an eco-bag or tote bag,” he implored, highlighting simple yet powerful alternatives to single-use plastics. His message is clear: the choices we make daily can significantly impact our fight against plastic pollution.
Larubis's concern is not unfounded. He draws a direct correlation between our negligent plastic usage and the adverse weather patterns we are currently experiencing. “We have already seen one of the effects of not taking good care of it,” he warns, pointing to the extreme weather conditions as a harbinger of more severe environmental crises if we fail to act.
The statistics presented by Larubis are alarming. “In one minute, we are processing about 1 million plastic bottles...we process about 5 trillion worldwide,” he states, shedding light on the staggering scale of plastic production. This relentless manufacture and disposal of plastics are suffocating our planet. The visual Larubis paints is grim – an Earth choking under the weight of unmanaged plastic waste, a testament to our collective failure to address this issue head-on.
The composition of plastic, as Larubis explains, is a complex chain of chemical substances derived from fossil fuels. Each piece of plastic, marked with a number, signifies its chemical makeup and recyclability. However, beyond the basic components lies a slew of stabilizers and chemicals that, if destabilized, pose significant health risks. This complexity underscores the urgency of reducing plastic consumption and improving waste management.
One of the solutions Larubis advocates for is the rigorous implementation of the Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (RA 9003). This legislation, if followed diligently, can mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. Larubis emphasizes the importance of responsible waste disposal and recycling at the household level as critical steps toward sustainability. By segregating recyclable plastics and ensuring they are properly processed, individuals can play a pivotal role in reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and, by extension, plastic production.
The crux of Larubis's message is the collective responsibility we hold in safeguarding our environment. “You really have to take it as part of your life,” he asserts, urging everyone to integrate sustainable practices into their daily routines. This isn't just about compliance with laws or the occasional recycling effort; it's about a fundamental shift in how we view and interact with our environment. It's about making conscious choices that prioritize the health of our planet over convenience.
In conclusion, the call to action issued by Engr. Esmael Larubis is a stark reminder of the critical junction at which we find ourselves. The path we choose to follow from here will determine the legacy we leave for future generations. It's a call to embrace sustainable practices, to turn away from the convenience of single-use plastics, and to take a stand for our planet. As the residents of Ozamiz City and beyond reflect on Larubis's words, the hope is that more individuals will join the movement to reduce plastic consumption. After all, it's not just about saving the Earth; it's about securing a livable, thriving planet for all who call it home.
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