LOOK: Athena Launches Sustainable Waste Management Project in La Union

This Earth Day, Athena took us to La Union for the launch of their collaborative sustainable waste management project called Pawi-CAN. This project aims to promote responsible garbage disposal while encouraging environmental protection at the same time.

La Union Sustainable Waste Management Project Athena

Photo from Athena

What is Athena’s Sustainable Waste Management Project in La Union?

In partnership with the San Juan Resort and Hotel Association Inc. (SJRRHASS), Dragon 8, and the local government of San Juan; Athena launched innovative Athena turtle bins that are strategically placed in areas in Urbiztondo, San Juan Beach that are frequented by a lot of tourists and remote workers.

Designed by visual artist and La Union native John Parmisano, the turtle bins aren’t just there as a sustainable waste management project but serve as a work of art as well.

La Union Sustainable Waste Management Athena

Photo from Athena

The Pawi-CAN Sustainable Waste Management Project in La Union emphasizes Athena’s commitment to responsible plastic disposal and recycling while also serving as a call for everyone to join this important cause. 

Drawing inspiration from the Pawi-CAN mentality, Athena strives to foster a culture of teamwork and achieve more where everyone collectively uplifts one another towards sustainability, community, and long-term collaboration.

La Union Sustainable Waste Management Athena 3

Photo from Athena

According to Athena chief marketing officer Victoria Alcachupas, this sustainable waste management project aligns with the company’s mission to improve quality of life through maintaining a clean environment.

“La Union has always been a hallmark for sustainable tourism and environmental protection. We are honored to work with the locals of La Union to promote proper waste management,” beams Victoria.

La Union Sustainable Waste Management Athena 4

Photo from Athena

Apart from installing turtle bins, Athena and its partners also hosted a coral reef planting workshop facilitated by EcoSurf that we were so lucky to experience and be a part of:

“We are thankful to Athena for their dedication to our community and environment,” adds San Juan Mayor Arturo P. Valdriz. “We hope that with these efforts, locals and beachgoers alike will develop greater awareness of their waste disposal habits, keeping our precious waters clean.”

We are also very thankful to have been a part of this launch and to witness the efforts that La Union goes through in order to keep the environment clean and healthy. Let’s all do our part in helping them with their new sustainable waste management project and beyond.

Got any similar initiatives you’d like us to feature? Email me at angeline.wheninmanila@gmail.com or send me a direct message at When in Manila Angeline on Facebook. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com Community at WIM SquadJoin our WhenInManila.com community on Viber, as well!