Meanwhile, TrashCash has rolled out an artificial intelligence-based technology to improve the collection, recovery, and monitoring of plastics wastes through their cloud-based platform and incentive mechanism. Residents of Samal Island are encouraged to properly segregate their recyclable plastic wastes in exchange for household items and necessities. The waste collected is then upcycled into valuable products such as bins, crates, tables, and chairs.

In his message, Ambassador Lyster lauded the achievements of the project and underscored its role in preserving the biodiversity of Samal Island. “The EPPIC Project—supported through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Norwegian Development Cooperation Agency—provides a good opportunity for local innovations that contribute to solve the marine plastic pollution in the Asia Pacific. The Philippines, being an archipelagic nation, heavily relies on its coastal and marine resources and it is imperative to protect and conserve the marine biodiversity from threats such as the plastic crisis,” the Ambassador stated.

Dr. Ramachandran recognized the potential of the island to be a model in the effective management of plastic waste. “In a growing island community like Samal which is frequented by tourists, the approach to plastic waste management is more challenging. It is good to see that the local communities here in Samal Island are demonstrating that a micro-circular economy is feasible in an island community. Hopefully, we get to roll out these innovative solutions not just throughout the island, but beyond," he said.