Through its Toxics-Free and Waste-Free Schools Program (TFSP), environmental organization BAN Toxics conducted the turnover of the newly developed TFSP learning modules for Grade 5 and Grade 6 students to Payatas B Elementary School (PBES) in Quezon City, followed by a preview session with Grade 6 students.

The activity advances efforts to foster a healthy, safe, and environmentally responsible school environment by equipping learners with knowledge and practical actions to manage waste responsibly, prevent pollution, and reduce exposure to toxic chemicals.

A team of teachers from PBES, led by School Principal Mr. Antonio Miranda, provided valuable input and expertise in developing the materials under the guidance of BAN Toxics.

The learning modules cover key topics such as proper waste management, including healthcare wastes; plastic reduction; unintentional Persistent Organic Pollutants (uPOPs), particularly Dioxins and Furans; and toxic chemicals, including mercury, lead, and other heavy metals. 

Through these learning materials, students will be encouraged to practice waste minimization, particularly by reducing the use of single-use plastics; apply proper waste management at home, in school, and in their communities;  understand the impacts of toxic chemicals; and contribute to protecting human health and the environment from hazardous substances.

The modules also feature Nurse Susie, the official mascot of the Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management (HCWM) Project, for which BAN Toxics serves as the executing organization. The project aims to strengthen healthcare waste management nationwide, with a special focus on reducing emissions of hazardous substances such as dioxins and furans and ensuring the safe and proper disposal of mercury. As part of these efforts, the modules are also set to undergo pilot testing under the project.

The modules will initially be rolled out to three Grade 6 sections of PBES, with implementation eventually expanding to all Grade 5 and Grade 6 sections during the school year.

By bringing environmental education into the classroom, the TFSP aims to empower young learners to become advocates for healthier schools, safer communities, and a toxics-free and waste-free future.