No Single-Use Plastics Policy

I. Rationale

St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMCII), rooted in the values of Faith, Excellence, and Service, upholds its commitment to ecological stewardship as promoted in Laudato Si. Recognizing the urgent need to address environmental degradation and plastic pollution, SMCII aligns this policy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being (reducing pollution-related health risks)
  • SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation (preventing plastic waste from contaminating water systems)
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities (building sustainable spaces through responsible consumption)
  • SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
  • SDG 13 – Climate Action (reducing carbon emissions associated with plastic production)
  • SDG 14 – Life Below Water (preventing marine pollution)
  • SDG 15 – Life on Land (protecting ecosystems from plastic waste)

Through this policy, SMCII commits to cultivating a campus culture that reduces ecological footprints and promotes sustainability.

II. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to eliminate the use, sale, and distribution of single-use plastics within all SMCII premises and activities, and to encourage sustainable alternatives among students, employees, partner suppliers, and visitors.

III. Scope

This policy applies to all campuses of St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMCII), including the Basic Education Department, Higher Education Department, and the Graduate School. It encompasses every member of the academic community students, faculty, non-teaching personnel, administrators, parents, and visitors who enter or participate in any school-related activity. Furthermore, the policy extends to all events, meetings, programs, student activities, and external engagements that are conducted within or outside the campus, as long as these activities are carried out under the name and authority of SMCII.

IV. Definition of Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics include, but are not limited to:

  • Plastic drinking straws
  • Plastic cups, lids, stirrers, and cutlery
  • Plastic bags and sachets
  • Styrofoam containers
  • PET water bottles (500ml and below)

V. Policy Statements

  1. Single-use plastics are strictly prohibited within campus premises for purchase, use, sale, or distribution.
  2. All offices, departments, and student organizations shall use eco-friendly and reusable alternatives (e.g., tumblers, reusable bags, metal cutlery, paper-based packaging).
  3. The SMCII Canteen must provide and sell only sustainable packaging and beverages stored in reusable or biodegradable containers.
  4. All school events (academic, co-curricular, institutional) must comply with the no single-use plastics rule.
  5. Suppliers and contractors must observe this policy for deliveries, catering, and services.
  6. Students and employees are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers, lunch boxes, and water bottles.
  7. Offices shall minimize plastic use in their operations and ensure proper waste segregation.

VI. Implementation Measures

  • The Quality Assurance Management Office, Campus Ministry, and Student Affairs Office shall jointly monitor compliance.
  • Awareness campaigns, signages, and orientation activities will be regularly conducted.
  • Waste collection points for recyclables and ecobricks will be maintained across the campus.
  • Partnerships with LGUs and environmental organizations will support recycling and sustainability initiatives.

VII. Compliance and Penalties

Violations shall merit appropriate actions:

First offense: Verbal reminder and confiscation of single-use plastic.

Second offense: Written warning and community involvement in a cleanliness or ecological activity.

Third offense: Report to the Student Affairs Office (for students) or HRO (for employees) for appropriate sanctions following institutional guidelines.

Suppliers who violate the policy may face penalties, suspension, or non-renewal of contracts.

Institutional Guidelines on the Imposition of Administrative Sanctions

1. Legal Basis and Policy Coverage

These guidelines are issued pursuant to No Single-Use Plastics Policy, the Employee Code of Conduct, and applicable labor laws. This applies to all employees who violate approved institutional policies, including environmental and sustainability regulations.

2. Principles Governing Sanctions

  • a. Due Process – No sanction shall be imposed without proper notice, opportunity to be heard, and formal documentation.
  • b. Proportionality – Sanctions shall be commensurate with the gravity and frequency of the offense.
  • c. Consistency – Similar offenses shall be met with uniform penalties across all offices.
  • d. Corrective Approach – Sanctions are intended to promote accountability, discipline, and institutional values rather than to punish.

3. Grounds for Imposition of Sanctions

Administrative sanctions may be imposed for repeated or willful violations of this policy after prior warnings and corrective measures have been issued, including but not limited to environmental, safety, and sustainability policies.

4. Types of Administrative Sanctions

Subject to due process and applicable labor regulations, the following sanctions may be imposed individually or progressively:

  • a. Written reprimand or warning
  • b. Mandatory participation in institutional or community-based corrective programs.

5. Implementing Offices

The Quality Assurance Management Office shall oversee the implementation of these guidelines in coordination with concerned unit heads and the appropriate disciplinary committee, if applicable.

6. Effectivity and Review

These guidelines shall take effect upon approval by the competent authority and shall be subject to periodic review to ensure compliance with updated laws, regulations, and institutional policies.