Norway Proposes Adapted Recycling Solutions for Philippines at Makati Conference

Key summary

At a conference in Makati on October 22 attended by 180 participants, Norwegian Ambassador Kristian Netland urged that recycling solutions be tailored to Philippine conditions. Organized by the Norwegian Embassy with the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Innovation Norway, and the Philippines Norway Business Council, the event featured representatives from TOMRA, DNV, ORKEL, INFRAMAR, and Hoppsann Technology who presented technologies for plastic recovery, waste baling, bottle-to-bottle recycling, and deposit return systems. Philippine Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna stated his department would assist Norwegian companies in connecting with local authorities and potential pilot partners. Ambassador Netland highlighted a proposed university pilot for a deposit return system expected in early 2027, though GIZ noted the project remains under development pending a successful assessment of the potential partner. The conference followed a Philippine delegation's visit to Norwegian recycling companies earlier in October.