PLDT, Smart get DENR backing on e-waste disposal programs

MANILA, Philippines — PLDT Inc. and wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. have signed a tripartite partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its accredited provider JMR Trade & Transport Services (JMR) for electronic waste disposal programs.

The initiative is aimed at ensuring the proper collection, transport, disposal, and recycling of electronic and hazardous waste from cell sites and offices.

E-waste includes discarded phones, tablets, computers, chargers and device accessories, while hazardous waste includes used lead acid batteries and fiber optic cables.

PLDT said the partnership is aligned with Smart’s e-waste program which uses technology to encourage a proper way of recycling discarded electronic devices.

Doing so would help avoid harmful effects of electronic waste on health and the environment, the telco said.

As part of the partnership, DENR’s Environment Management Bureau Region 3 will coordinate with other regional offices to provide support to the waste recovery project.

The agency will also link PLDT and JMR to its network of scientific researchers and experts.

PLDT has also committed to ramp up environmental awareness and proper disposal of e-waste among its staff, employees, partners and stakeholders.

PLDT and Smart’s e-waste disposal programs are aligned with the group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly on responsible consumption and production.

Under this, companies are to ensure the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.