Project UPcycle: Epson and WWF-Philippines Boost Local Livelihoods and Sustainability

Epson Philippines and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines have successfully concluded their latest collaborative initiative, “Project UPcycle,” aimed at promoting a circular economy through plastic upcycling in Burgos, Siargao Island. This area, known for its protected landscapes and seascapes, benefits significantly from this project, which supports A.T.E. Sewing Atelier, a social enterprise dedicated to uplifting local women through livelihood opportunities.

Project UPcycle has substantially advanced A.T.E.’s plastic upcycling efforts by supplying new equipment, renovating its recycling facility, and hosting capacity-building workshops. These enhancements have empowered the women of A.T.E. to continue converting plastic waste into valuable products, increasing their income while contributing to environmental sustainability.

“Project UPcycle exemplifies Epson’s dedication to environmental stewardship, livelihood enhancement, and social responsibility—commitments that are integral to our corporate values,” said Masako Kusama, President and Director of Epson Philippines. “We are grateful for the opportunity to support A.T.E. Sewing Atelier in its mission to blend sustainability with community empowerment.”

Joeffrey Maglinte, Project Manager at WWF-Philippines, added, “We chose Burgos, Siargao Island for Project UPcycle as part of our commitment to preventing plastic pollution from affecting our pristine waters, while also generating livelihood opportunities for the local community. Our collective fight against plastic pollution, supported by partnerships with Epson Philippines and A.T.E. Sewing Atelier, aims to foster environmental improvement, one community at a time.”

Transformation of the Recycling Facility

Through Project UPcycle, A.T.E.’s plastic recycling facility has been transformed into a fully operational Recycling Art Studio. This facility now serves as a central hub for collecting, segregating, and processing plastic waste, which is then upcycled into eco-friendly products such as bean bags, coasters, flowerpots, furniture, keychains, and plastic lumber. Previously an abandoned 100-square-meter space without a roof or electrical line, the facility is now a vibrant center of activity.

The Recycling Art Studio also welcomes recyclables from community members in exchange for household items like canned goods or services such as washing machine use and provides refillable products as an option.

Increased Production and Opportunities

Project UPcycle provided A.T.E. Sewing Atelier with four additional sewing machines, boosting the enterprise’s production capacity by 27%. Consequently, the average monthly income of A.T.E. increased by 76%, rising from Php280,000 to Php494,000. The additional equipment allowed A.T.E. to expand its team from 10 to 14 local staff members.

In addition to sewing machines, the project supplied A.T.E. with two laptops and one Epson printer with a scanner, enhancing overall business efficiency.

“The new sewing machines have enabled us to produce more items, particularly upcycled products and souvenirs, and have created steady employment opportunities for local families,” noted Sanne Davis, co-founder of Nature Kids of Siargao, the parent organization of A.T.E.

Advancing Financial Literacy and Business Acumen

Project UPcycle also included two training workshops for 18 A.T.E. employees. The first workshop, conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Surigao del Norte, focused on developing business plans aligned with organizational goals and market needs. The second workshop, organized by WWF-Philippines, addressed personal financial management, and the importance of savings, and introduced the Group Savings and Loans Association (GSLA), which facilitates collective savings and access to loans and social funds.

“I’ve learned a great deal about marketing, goal setting, and business management,” said Corah, manager at A.T.E. Sewing Atelier. “Although it’s challenging, the workshop provided valuable guidance on starting and running a business effectively.”

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