In a decisive step toward addressing Zamboanga City’s escalating solid waste challenge, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, through Ateneo Center for Environment and Sustainability (ACES), united academic partners for the Envi-Action Summit: Building Sustainable Campuses through Collective Action,” a two-day seminar workshop that aims to develop a shared, research-driven Solid Waste Management Action Framework for Zamboanga City.
Held at the Tee King Lecture Hall, the summit transformed fragmented efforts into a coordinated, city-wide strategy for waste reduction and sustainable management. The initiative directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
The first day immersed participants in a comprehensive understanding of policies, innovations, and the human impact of waste. Sessions covered national and local SWM policies, alternative solutions for sustainable urban development, and the human cost of waste, amplified through voices from the landfills. A guided visit to Brgy Salaan Landfill gave participants firsthand insight into the environmental and social toll of improper waste management. Pre-workshop activities highlighted best practices in SWM, culminating in a strategic planning workshop that laid the groundwork for a collaborative academe-led framework.
Day two highlighted collaboration in action. Each group presented draft SWM action plans, receiving guidance and feedback from expert panels to enhance feasibility, impact, and alignment with city priorities. Representatives from twelve academic institutions—including Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Western Mindanao State University, Universidad de Zamboanga, and Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University—brought research, data, and community insights together to build a coordinated, evidence-based approach to waste management.
Resource speakers included City Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Specialist I Mr. Albert P. Ebol Jr., Salaan Cooperative President Ms. Concepcion F. Limel, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Gerry Pollisco, and Environmental Management Specialist II Ms. Emma S. Alipala.
The summit concluded with a unified commitment: transforming research, data, and community engagement into tangible solutions for Zamboanga City’s waste crisis. By harnessing the collective knowledge and civic responsibility of the academe, the Envi-Action Summit 2026 proved that sustainable, impactful change is possible—paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient city for generations to come.
More photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/jLeWnjYUBn2QNDvB9