Climate change, pollution, and resource depletion—the need for sustainable practices is more pressing than ever before. Where environmental issues are pressing concerns, the rise of mobile applications has provided a unique platform to raise awareness and drive action towards sustainable practices.
With the widespread use of smartphones and the availability of mobile internet, these applications have the potential to reach millions of Filipinos, making them accessible and effective in promoting sustainability.
From reducing carbon footprints to promoting eco-friendly consumption habits, mobile applications are driving positive change and shaping a more sustainable future for the Philippines.
Let’s take note of some of the most innovative and impactful mobile applications that are leading the charge in raising sustainability awareness and promoting eco-friendly behaviors among Filipinos.
Siargao Flora & Fauna Puzzle
Inspired by the popular tile-matching game Candy Crush, the Siargao Flora & Fauna Puzzle is an offline game that features animal and plant species endemic to the tourist destination’s rich landscape, including its wide expanse of mangrove forests.
The game is said to inspire Siargao learners to learn more about the animals and plants on their home island.
Each level is an idle and visual way to understand the habitat and behavior of Siargao’s natural treasures like the Mindanao Flying Tree, Paka Gadikit, and Platymantis Paka through the app feature called Siargao Journal.
Developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the National Research Council of the Philippines (NCRP), Rep. Francisco Jose Matugas II of the 1st District of Surigao del Norte has called on parents to download the game app.
Pinas: The Basura Buster (PBB)
Launched on January 31, 2022, by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR), Pinas: The Basura Buster (PBB) is an android-based mobile gaming application designed for kids to teach them proper waste segregation in a fun way.
PBB is one of the projects under the Eastern Visayas Solid Waste Management Advocacy, made to further strengthen awareness of solid waste management in this digital age.
TrashCash
Developed by Filipino software developer Benjoe Vidal, TrashCash is a mobile application that rewards its users with points when they collect plastic materials and deposit them at designated drop-off stations.
App users need to collect and segregate their garbage, scan it to see its value, and submit it to the nearest drop-off point. Once the value of the garbage is confirmed by personnel at the drop-off point, they will then credit the corresponding reward points, which users could use to exchange for items at TrashCash partner stores or money that would be credited to users’ digital wallets.
As technology continues to evolve, the potential for mobile applications to catalyze environmental action in the Philippines remains promising, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
