To address the surge in electronic waste (e-waste) in the Philippines, which poses significant environmental and health hazards, the UP Open University – Faculty of Management and Development Studies (UPOU-FMDS) organized the “UPOU’s e-STaR Challenge” (e-Waste Sustainable Transformation and Recycling Competition).

This initiative aims to raise awareness about e-waste management, promote sustainable practices, and encourage innovative solutions to repurpose electronic waste. The challenge was launched in celebration of International E-waste Day on October 14, 2023. Community members and UPOU Earth Ambassadors were invited to participate, with submissions accepted until November 10.

As part of the challenge, UPOU community members were also encouraged to donate e-waste using the Alitaptap Community Currency, another FMDS initiative.
The challenge garnered four submissions: two from UPOU Earth Ambassadors schools and two from members of FMDS partner organizations. These submissions were displayed at the UPOU Oblation Hall and judged by four invited guests on November 17, 2023, before the awards ceremony of the UPOU e-STaR Challenge.

Judges for the UPOU e-STaR Challenge

The judging panel brought a wealth of knowledge and experience in environmental sustainability, art, and innovation. The judges were:

  1. Ms. Elvy Pamulaklakin, Chief Administrative Officer, Supply and Property Management Office, UP Open University
  2. Ms. Paloma Martinez Aguirre, Student, Permaculture Systems Design Thinking, FMDS
  3. Ms. Edjielyn Macasaet, BS Biology Student, UP Los Baños / Member, UP ECOSS
  4. Mr. Von Dela Cruz, UP Los Baños Student / Member, UP ECOSS

Judging Criteria

Entries were evaluated based on the following criteria, with ten points allotted for each category:

  • Creativity and Innovation: Originality and innovative use of e-waste materials in upcycled products.
  • Functionality and Usability: Practicality and performance of the upcycled items in everyday use.
  • Aesthetics and Design: Visual appeal, craftsmanship, and design aesthetics of the upcycled creations.
  • Environmental Impact: Contribution of the upcycled products to reducing e-waste and their overall sustainability.
  • Overall Presentation: Effectiveness in communicating the inspiration, process, and story behind the upcycled items

These criteria ensured that the competition highlighted not only creative and functional upcycling but also the importance of sustainability and effective communication. Additionally, a popularity poll was conducted through the FMDS Facebook Page and an online poll administered to the UPOU Community.

UPOU e-STaR Challenge Winners

In a short program held on the afternoon of November 17, 2023, the winners of the UPOU e-STaR Challenge were announced, and certificates and tokens were awarded to the participants.

The UPOU e-STaR Challenge People’s Choice Award went to “Starry, Starry Night” by Mr. Joseph M. Salacup, which garnered 91 votes. This year’s UPOU e-STaR Challenge Winner was “Light of the Aquatic World” by Mr. Jed Laroya.

The event featured an opening message by Dean Joane V. Serrano, a sharing and message by the UPOU e-STaR Challenge Winner, Mr. Jed Laroya, and closing remarks from Dr. Myra D. Oruga.

This successful challenge not only showcased the innovative spirit of the participants but also underscored the importance of sustainable e-waste management practices in the community.

Written by: Noreen Dianne Alazada • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

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