Launch event: Behavioural Insights Project Expands Regional Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution

  

Phase II of the "Breaking the Plastic Habit in ASEAN" project was successfully launched on 18 October 2024 at the ERIA office in Jakarta.

Phase II of the "Breaking the Plastic Habit in ASEAN" project was successfully launched on 18 October 2024 at the ERIA office in Jakarta. The event was attended by more than 100 participants, both in person and online. This phase brings together an expanded network of partner organizations, countries, and project initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable plastic consumption across the region. A two-day capacity-building workshop was held on 16-17 October 2024, alongside the launch event, to partner organizations for project implementation from January to August 2025.

At the event, Mr Reo Kawamura, Director of the Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, emphasized, "The case studies will equip provide policymakers, businesses, and civil society with practical skills for behavior-focused projects. Combining Behavioural Insights with strong policies and cross-sector partnerships will drive the changes needed to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability in ASEAN."

Building on the achievements of the previous project, Phase II extends the project to six Southeast Asian countries, broadening the scope and diversity of initiatives. These new projects will be implemented by a wide range of organizations, originating from academic, governmental, business, and civil society background. The initiative also introduces a new measurement framework designed to evaluate the impact of 'nudge' interventions, providing practical tool for policymakers and stakeholders.

Representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Indonesia stated “Civil society movements promoting initiatives such as behavioural insights can support government efforts to manage waste sustainably. I hope the success of this project can be scaled up and implemented in other regions of Indonesia.” The expanded Phase II projects will use Behavioural Insights to complement existing policies, such as bans and taxes

As ASEAN grapples with the global challenge of plastic pollution, Phase II of the project reaffirms the collective commitment to fostering sustainable, long-term change. Through increased collaboration across sectors and regions, the project is set to contribute significantly to the shared vision of a cleaner and more sustainable ASEAN.

The project will be carried out by ERIA and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).

About RKCMPD

The Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris was established under the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia in 2019. The Centre’s mission is to provide information and support to ASEAN+3 Member States, thereby helping them to improve the circularity of plastic and prevent leakage into marine environments.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Ross Flores Del Rosario selected as one of the on-site participants for the AASSA-NAST PHL International Symposium on Digital Transformation in Healthcare

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

"Good day! 

We wish to inform you that you have been selected as one of the on-site participants for the AASSA-NAST PHL International Symposium on Digital Transformation in Healthcare on 29-30 October 2024 at the Acacia Hotel, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. 

The international symposium aims to (1) provide an opportunity to introduce the digital health service ecosystem; (2) present the trends, experiences, and successful initiatives among developed and developing economies; (3) review the impact of digital transformation on quality and cost-effective patient management and care, medical education, and health workforce development; (4) identify common issues and concerns in Asia; and (5) provide recommendations on the shift towards the digital transformation of healthcare.

Attached herewith is the provisional program of activities for your reference. 

Thank you and see you there!"



Ross Flores Del Rosario, the founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, has been selected as one of the on-site participants for the prestigious AASSA-NAST PHL International Symposium on Digital Transformation in Healthcare, scheduled for October 29-30, 2024. This event will take place at the Acacia Hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, and serves as a vital platform for exploring cutting-edge digital health service ecosystems and advancements in healthcare transformation.

The symposium is organized by the Association of Academies and Societies of Sciences in Asia (AASSA) in collaboration with the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL). It will focus on a range of critical topics including governance in digital health, healthcare financing, and strategic partnerships between public and private sectors. Attendees from across the globe will share insights on trends, experiences, and successful initiatives in digital health, especially from developed and developing economies.

This event represents a unique opportunity for Del Rosario, who has been recognized for his extensive influence in digital media through Wazzup Pilipinas. His participation underscores his dedication to staying at the forefront of digital transformation, not only in media but also in the healthcare sector, where emerging technologies are revolutionizing patient care, medical education, and health workforce development.

The symposium will open on October 29 with welcome remarks from Academician Jaime Montoya, President of NAST PHL, followed by a keynote address from Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. of the Department of Science and Technology. Del Rosario will have the chance to engage in sessions addressing health data governance, digital public infrastructure, and AI-driven healthcare solutions. Among the notable speakers are Dr. Kidong Park from the World Health Organization, and experts from the Asian Development Bank and Mayo Clinic, all discussing transformative digital health initiatives.

As the founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, Del Rosario’s participation is a testament to his ongoing commitment to explore and promote innovations that can influence various sectors, including healthcare. This opportunity aligns with his broader mission to elevate the Philippines as a hub for both technological advancements and credible information dissemination. The outcomes of this symposium, such as identifying digital transformation strategies for the healthcare sector, could have lasting impacts on improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency in the country.

As Ross Del Rosario continues to expand his horizons, this symposium marks another significant milestone in his career, enabling him to not only learn from global health leaders but also contribute to discussions on how digital transformation can create more inclusive and effective healthcare systems.

Registration Open for ASEAN Conference on Combatting Plastic Pollution 2024

  

    Registration open to public: Date: October 28-29, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM GMT+7 Registration: https://forms.gle/xCzPk1UHZ3ffcvHG9

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Lao PDR, the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia and its Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, and United Nations Development Programme Lao PDR will host the ASEAN Conference on Combatting Plastic Pollution 2024. This conference aims to bring together stakeholders from ASEAN Member States, the private sector, innovators, academia, and civil society to discuss innovative solutions, best practices, and regional policies to address plastic pollution.

The two-day event will focus on fostering partnerships and sharing knowledge on combatting plastic pollution across Southeast Asia. It will also feature an exhibition showcasing innovations from across ASEAN. The conference will be open to the public and could be joined online. Please find the date, time, and registration link below:

Date: October 28-29, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM GMT+7

Registration: https://forms.gle/xCzPk1UHZ3ffcvHG9

Prominent speakers, including government officials, international experts, and innovators working on sustainability and circular economy solutions, will be among the participants. The conference will be held under the patronage of H.E. Mme. Bounkham Vorachit, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of Lao PDR.

ERIA’s involvement through its Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, underscores its dedication to fostering regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing. ERIA remains committed to contributing to ASEAN’s efforts in reducing plastic pollution through collaborative and innovative solutions.

About RKCMPD

The Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris was established under the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia in 2019. The Centre’s mission is to provide information and support to ASEAN+3 Member States, thereby helping them to improve the circularity of plastic and prevent leakage into marine environments.