CLEAN UP! Students help clean up trash at the school surroundings, emphasizing the strengthened use of waste management in the Augustinian community. PHOTO BY PAULINE DEL ROSARIO.

Aiming to inspire greater community awareness and action, Dr. Remedios Basilio, chairperson of the school’s waste management team, gave an insightful talk on environmental sustainability and the urgent challenges of climate change through the initiative of Colegio San Agustin's Sustainability Council. 

The event, which transpired on September 12, 2024, had three main goals: raising awareness about sustainability issues, empowering student leaders, and facilitating dialogue between students and school administrators. Dr. Basilio, who has served CSA for over 30 years, including being a chemistry teacher and high school assistant principal, underscored how daily actions, from waste management to energy conservation, can make a tangible difference in the environment, encouraging students and staff to actively reduce waste and conserve resources.

“Sustainability is not just a trend or buzzword—it’s a responsibility we all share,” remarked Dr. Basilio. She further emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving lasting change. Particularly, she stated, “By collaborating, we can bridge the gap between policy-making and

student-led efforts.” Additionally, Dr. Basilio highlighted the need for institutionalized waste management practices involving the entire CSA community, from students to staff and maintenance personnel.

The talk ended with a call to action for CSA’s students and staff to work together in their sustainability journey. Urging the attendees to consider future generations in their resource choices, she reminded them, “Every action we take today has an impact on tomorrow.”