Diez has been at the forefront of eco-driven initiatives, championing renewable energy, education, the environment, and responsible entrepreneurship.
With the upcoming ninth year of National Cleanup Day, Diez reflects on the milestones, challenges, and successes that have shaped their journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Empowering last-mile communities
SEED4Com, founded in 2014, focuses on improving human conditions, empowering poverty-stricken areas, and promoting rural community development in the Philippines.
By addressing grassroots gaps and providing clean energy solutions, environmental protection, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities, SEED4Com uplifts last-mile communities, ensuring a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Catalyzing environmental action
One of SEED4Com’s flagship initiatives, National Cleanup Day, has become a significant environmental movement in the Philippines.
Since its inception in 2015, the initiative has mobilized nationwide participation, bringing together local governments, academic institutions, environmental groups, and civil society organizations.
National Cleanup Day goes beyond cleanups, incorporating waste audits, brand audits, and data collection to influence policymaking and legislation.
Milestones and achievements
Since its inception, National Cleanup Day has achieved significant milestones and received widespread recognition.
SEED4Com’s efforts were endorsed by the President, Vice President, Speaker of the House, and Senators of the Philippines.
The movement has inspired other countries to replicate the initiative, with the cleanup day being celebrated every 3rd Saturday of September.
Notably, SEED4Com played a pivotal role in institutionalizing citywide quarterly cleanups in Cebu City through their advocacy and collaboration with local governments. Furthermore, SEED4Com’s focus on empowering youth has led to the creation of eco-leaders, who have gone on to represent their communities at national and international levels.
Partnerships
SEED4Com’s partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau (DENR EMB) has been instrumental in the success of National Cleanup Day.
The collaboration has ensured the formulation of guidelines, continuous improvement of the initiative, and alignment with international events.
By leveraging corporate social responsibility programs, SEED4Com engages local governments, academic institutions, companies, and industries in supporting the cleanup efforts.
Challenges
Organizing a large-scale volunteer movement poses challenges, such as planning, funding, and data management.
SEED4Com addresses these challenges by conducting training and workshops to equip eco-leaders for coordination.
Funding is sought through partnerships with companies, and continuous improvement is sought for data collection and reporting to facilitate better analysis and policy formulation.
Communities
SEED4Com engages and motivates volunteers through training, mentorship, and effective communication channels.
Social media campaigns, workshops, and environmental outreach programs play a crucial role in creating awareness and inspiring active involvement.
Sustainability
The National Cleanup Day has led to a positive shift in behavior among young people, with a growing adoption of reusable water bottles, eco-bags, and minimalist or zero-waste lifestyles.
The initiative has inspired local governments to implement ordinances on single-use plastics and establish barangay materials recovery facilities.
Although comprehensive statistics are challenging to gather, the increasing number of cleanups and inquiries from companies for environmental outreach showcase the initiative’s impact.
Through the remarkable efforts of Dann Diez and SEED4Com, communities in the Philippines are being empowered to embrace environmental sustainability.
The National Cleanup Day, SEED4Com’s flagship initiative, has become a catalyst for change, inspiring widespread participation, and positive environmental outcomes.
As they continue their journey, Diez and SEED4Com remain dedicated to building a greener future and nurturing a sense of responsibility towards the planet.