Watsons Philippines, a leader in health, beauty, and wellness, strengthened its sustainability initiatives by joining International Coastal Cleanup Day 2024. Held on September 21 along SM By The Bay, this global event empowers communities to take action against marine pollution, while inspiring everyday habits that support a sustainable future.
Watsons employee volunteers gather to clean up trash and debris along the stretch of Manila Bay in observation of the 2024 International Coastal Cleanup day [Photo courtesy: Watsons Philippines | Press Release]Watsons Philippines inspires Eco-Action through Coastal Cleanup
International Coastal Cleanup Day is an annual event with a global mission: to combat the threat of marine pollution through community-driven cleanups and education.
Watsons, renowned for its commitment to environmental initiatives, enlisted over 110 employees in this year’s campaign, adding to a massive effort that collected over 115,000 kilograms of waste. Volunteers from diverse sectors joined forces to clear the coastal area, reinforcing the importance of collective action in safeguarding marine ecosystems.
A total of 110 Watsons employees have volunteered to participate in the International Coastal Cleanup day [Photo courtesy: Watsons Philippines | Press Release]“This is also one of our goals for this project — to inspire the spirit of volunteerism by Watsons employees serving as an example. Any undertaking this big requires the cooperation of many,” said Sharon Decapia, SAVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability at Watsons Philippines. “And that’s what we hope to achieve with this project — to get people to believe in our cause of advocating towards a sustainable future and be inspired to take action.”
Building on Past Success for Stronger Impact
Watsons has a track record of active involvement in International Coastal Cleanup Day. The retailer’s partnership with SM in 2023 mobilized 17,000 volunteers, resulting in 100,000 kilos of trash removal. This year’s increased turnout underscores Watsons’ expanding role as a leader in eco-sustainability, fostering public awareness and advocating for actionable change.
Beyond cleanup events, Watsons’ ongoing ‘Planet’ sustainability pillar encompasses efforts to reduce its environmental impact. This approach aligns with the brand’s dedication to customer education, urging consumers to make small, conscious adjustments in their everyday routines.
Leading by Example in Sustainable Retail
(From left to right) Rizza Cantre; Director, People and Organization Development, Joan Garcia; Group Senior People Business Partner, Ramil Horario; Controller, Functional Finance, Sharon Decapia; SAVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability, Lexie Coloma; Senior Marketing Manager for Sustainability. [Photo courtesy: Watsons Philippines | Press Release]As a major retailer in the Philippines1, Watsons’ sustainability mission reaches beyond the cleanup. They inspire customers to adopt greener habits, promoting a vision where minor lifestyle changes contribute to substantial environmental benefits. Watsons also encourages sustainable disposal practices and mindful consumption, two simple but vital steps in mitigating waste.
“The changes that we can make in our consumption habits don’t have to be big. What’s important is that we consciously make these adjustments in the way we dispose of our trash,” Decapia emphasized, “and that we start now. Let’s strive to be part of the solution, not contribute more to the problem.”
Get Involved: Small Actions, Big Difference with Watsons
Watsons’ advocacy for a cleaner environment reflects a broader mission to lead sustainable change within the community. Visit any Watsons store or use the Watsons App to learn about their latest eco-friendly initiatives and discover how simple, eco-conscious choices can lead to a more sustainable future.
Watsons employee volunteers worked tirelessly to collect trash along the shores of Manila Bay [Photo courtesy: Watsons Philippines | Press Release]ALSO READ: Watsons Commits to Accelerating Sustainable Practices in 2024
Watsons Philippines continues to set a sustainable example, proving that even small, daily habits can collectively make a difference. With a focus on environmental responsibility, the brand’s commitment to sustainability shines through every initiative. By championing International Coastal Cleanup Day, Watsons calls upon the community to join hands in the journey toward cleaner oceans and a greener planet.
Join Watsons in its journey toward a sustainable future. Visit a nearby Watsons store or download the Watsons App to discover how you can help make a difference today.
Footnotes
- As Asia’s No.1 health and beauty retailer, Watsons celebrated a significant milestone last year with the opening of its 1,000th store in the Philippines, bringing its total to 8,000 stores across 15 markets in Asia and Eastern Europe. More than 30 stores are located in Cebu.
