“Dump Not, Burn Not” upcycles tarps into bags

THE province of Sorsogon is taking a creative approach to tackling pollution from festival tarpaulins by launching the “A Tarpaulin Bag Drive: Dump Not, Burn Not!” program.

Inspired by the abundance of tarpaulins used during the recently concluded Kasanggayahan Festival, the initiative aims to repurpose them into durable bags instead of discarding or burning them, which would harm the environment.

The Kasanggayahan Festival, celebrating Sorsogon’s prosperity, was affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, leading to the cancellation of events from October 23 onwards. However, the program will utilize the existing tarpaulins to create functional bags, promoting sustainability and a culture of environmental responsibility.

Sorsogon Governor Jose Edwin Hamor emphasizes the program’s dual benefits: reducing waste and fostering a culture of sustainability while simultaneously implementing disaster mitigation projects in the province.

“These tarps symbolize Sorsogon’s commitment to environmental stewardship,” Hamor added.

Sorsogon Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office (SPTCAO) head Bobby Gigantone said they have collaborated with the Sorsogon State University (SSU), particularly its garments department, to engage students and local communities in transforming waste into useful products.

“With the large number of promotional tarpaulins on display, we aim to minimize the waste and burdens exacerbated by the storm,” he added.

Some 4,700 pieces of tarpaulins, used as banners and billboards, have been dismantled, with the largest measuring 15ft x 45ft and the smallest 4ft x 8ft.

Gigantone expressed confidence in the creativity and craftsmanship of SSU students, saying their ability to turn trash into treasure showcases not only the beauty of Sorsogon’s festivals but also the Sorsoganons’ commitment to caring for the environment.

They are open to donating repurposed tarps to barangays or individuals for use as sun and rain shields for pedicabs, tricycles, and jeepneys. The tarps can also serve as improvised canopies for homes and shops or for drying palay.

Interested barangays, groups, or individuals should send a letter of request to Hamor, stating their purpose.

EcoWaste Coalition warns that burning tarps made of PVC plastic releases toxic pollutants like dioxins and furans, contaminating the food supply and posing health risks.

Disposing of tarps in landfills can leach hazardous chemicals into the soil and water, while burning them releases harmful substances into the environment. (PIA5/Sorsogon)