The multi-sectoral  forum was attended by different stakeholders from the government, private sectors, non-governmental organizations  and civil society. Dr. Fabian Dayrit , Vice President of the National  Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) giving the presentation on the chemistry of plastic. Mr. Crispian Lao,  Industry Representative to the National Solid Waste Commission (NSWC) presented the different efforts undertaken by the private sector in addressing the plastic pollution.

Plastic waste is one of the major problems the world has to deal with . The impact of the improper waste disposal has reached the ecosystems that are greatly affecting not only the land but also the oceans.

According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), each year, more than 8 million tonnes of plastic ends up in the oceans, wreaking havoc on marine wildlife, fisheries and tourism, and costing at least $8 billion in damage to marine ecosystems. Up to 80 per cent of all litter in our oceans is made of plastic.

In the article published in the Philippine Star on June 15, 2018, it was reported that the Philippines has become the world’s third largest source of plastic leaking into the ocean and has among the highest trash collection rates in Southeast Asia.

It is in this regard that the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST)  conducted the multi-sectoral forum on May 24, 2019 at the PICC to provide awareness to the different sectors. Speakers discussed the ongoing activities and programs on a multi-sectoral level of the society and how the efforts of the government, private sectors and non-governmental organizations interlinked to address the current local and global problem. Dr. Fabian Dayrit , Vice President of the National  Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) giving the presentation on the chemistry of plastic.