ASEAN Youth Video Speech Challenge - Crizel Jei Rivera

Summary

Cal J. Rivera, a young Filipino, highlights the pressing issue of plastic pollution in the region. He stresses how plastics permeate our environment, from food to water, and their lasting impact on oceans, rivers, and even our bodies. Plastic waste, which amounts to over 31 million tons annually, harms ecosystems. However, Rivera believes that through collaboration, innovation, and small lifestyle changes like using reusables and supporting plastic-free initiatives, we can reduce this problem. He calls for a collective effort to shift from plastic consumption to sustainable practices, urging the youth to actively contribute to tackling plastic pollution and shaping a better future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Plastic pollution is a widespread issue, affecting oceans, rivers, streets, and even our bodies.
• 😀 Plastic waste doesn't disappear; it accumulates and harms the environment, particularly marine ecosystems.
• 😀 More than 31 million tons of plastic waste are generated annually, and this is linked to global trade and consumption habits.
• 😀 Globalization provides opportunities to tackle plastic pollution through technology, innovation, and collaboration.
• 😀 Policies alone aren't enough to solve plastic pollution; individual actions also matter.
• 😀 Simple actions like using reusable items and rejecting plastic straws can contribute to a cleaner future.
• 😀 Shifting our mindset from 'use and grow' to 'reduce, reuse, and rethink' is key to fighting plastic pollution.
• 😀 Lasting change requires better systems for recycling, education, and regional collaboration.
• 😀 We can either allow plastic pollution to suffocate our environment or take action to improve it through collective effort.
• 😀 As a young person, the speaker believes in the power of unity, awareness, and innovation to overcome global challenges.
• 😀 The speaker calls on the current generation to not only inherit challenges but to actively work to address and solve them.

Q & A

What is the main issue Cal J. Rivera discusses in the video?

Cal J. Rivera discusses the global issue of plastic pollution and its harmful impact on the environment, particularly on oceans, rivers, and even human health.

Why is plastic pollution considered more than just an environmental issue?

Plastic pollution is not only an environmental issue but also a global challenge tied to interconnected economies and consumption habits, as more trade and production lead to more plastic waste.

How much plastic waste do countries generate annually?

Countries generate more than 31 million tons of plastic waste annually, much of which harms marine ecosystems.

What is the role of the ASAN conference in addressing plastic pollution?

The ASAN conference in 2024 is focused on combating plastic pollution, with the aim to promote collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices to reduce plastic's harmful effects.

What actions can individuals take to help reduce plastic pollution?

Individuals can make a difference by using reusable items, rejecting plastic straws, and supporting plastic-free school programs.

What does Cal J. Rivera suggest as a way to shift our approach to plastic consumption?

Cal J. Rivera suggests shifting from the 'use and grow' mentality to 'reduce, reuse, and rethink' as a means to combat plastic pollution.

What is needed for lasting change in the fight against plastic pollution?

Lasting change requires better systems for collection, recycling, education, and regional teamwork to address the issue more effectively.

How does Cal J. Rivera view the future of plastic pollution?

Cal J. Rivera believes that the journey with plastics is still unfolding, and we have the power to either let it suffocate in waste or elevate it through collective actions.

What is the message Cal J. Rivera wants to convey to young people in the region?

Cal J. Rivera encourages young people to be active in addressing plastic pollution, believing in the strength of unity, awareness, and innovation to overcome these challenges.

How does Cal J. Rivera emphasize the importance of individual actions in the fight against plastic pollution?

Cal J. Rivera emphasizes that while policies are important, individual choices, such as reducing plastic use and supporting sustainability initiatives, can significantly contribute to a better future.