Written by makesense

In November 2022, we published a manifesto urging the Philippines to take a bold step towards a sachet-free future. It came days after our conference on mainstreaming refilling, and has been a crucial part of the movement since.

Why Sachets Are a Big Deal

Single-use plastics, especially sachets, are a major environmental concern. According to the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, sachets make up a staggering 52% of the country’s plastic waste. And the problem doesn’t stop at landfills—about 20% of this waste ends up in our oceans, threatening marine life, coastal communities, and industries like fishing and tourism.

A Call for Change

This manifesto isn’t just a statement; it’s a call to action. Led by our NOYPI coalition, which includes over 22 partner organizations, we’ve gathered more than 20,000 signatures on our petition. In the manifesto, we ask the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update regulations to make mainstream refilling of cosmetic products a reality.

What We’re Asking For

1. Redefine refilling as its own category, separate from manufacturing.

2. Establish safety and sanitary guidelines for refilling stations.

3. Define what information needs to be on labels for refill products and stations.

These changes, initially proposed by Save the Philippine Seas’ Anna Oposa and Human Nature, are crucial steps towards reducing our plastic footprint.

Why Legalizing Refill Stations Matters

1. They’ll make it easier and more affordable for Filipinos to choose refillable options for their daily needs.

2. Refilling can help create new opportunities for businesses and shift away from single-use plastics.

3. It will support the adoption of refilling in sari-sari stores, where many Filipinos buy their everyday essentials.

The Big Picture

By revising regulations on refilling, we’re not just addressing plastic waste; we’re also supporting the Philippines’ commitment to The Paris Agreement on climate change. It’s an opportunity for the government to lead by example and for businesses to step up their sustainability efforts.

Join the Movement

We believe that real change happens when we understand the facts about sachet pollution, recognize its impact, and act on the solutions. Read the full manifesto here to learn more about our goals and how you can be part of the movement. By spreading the word, you’re helping drive the change we need for a more sustainable Philippines.

Para sa kalikasan, sa Pilipinas, at sa bawat Pilipino!