Ilocano youth takes lead vs ‘plastic pollution’

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—A group of young Ilocano volunteers is making waves in the coastlines of Ilocos Norte as they attempt to protect marine resources and combat “plastic pollution”.

Plastic pollution, they explained are the plastic packaging and bottles commonly used today.

During their free time, they would gather near a beach and pick scattered plastic materials and bottles. They would also fun-dive and conduct underwater clean-up.

Proudly calling themselves as “ocean patrollers”, these young individuals are part of greater environment advocacy group dubbed “Movement Against Plastic Pollution”, or MAPP in Ilocos Norte which aims to love, protect and educate people about their role stewards of nature.

“Plastic pollution is every day’s problem. Plastics are everywhere, including in your own dinner table, in your own food. So be part of the solution,” said Patricia Dacanay, a young environmentalist from Currimao, Ilocos Norte, who is also the MAPP founder.

As an anti-plastic advocate, the 20-year old Ms. Dacanay shows how “zero waste lifestyle” can be rewarding in the long run.

Together with other youth volunteers, the MAPP is active in social networking sites to promote its advocacy.

In partnership with schools, the movement recently organized, “Usapang Dagay: A marine conservation day camp” on June 9 to reach out to fellow youth and instill awareness on how to get rid of plastic pollution little by little.

Attended by 41 participants, the whole-day event featured discussions on marine and coastal ecosystem, fishery laws, plastic pollution and zero waste lifestyle.

Arthur Valente, fishery regulatory officer of Ilocos Norte said several marine animals and fish died already due to plastic pollution and not just due to water contamination.

“The solution to the problem on waste starts with one’s self. People lack discipline and they tend to abuse it,” said Mr. Valente.

Enjoining everyone to be part of the solution, Ms. Dacanay said “We don’t need plastic. Our environment need not suffer due to the wrongdoings of man.”