Kusina to Kalikasan: Used Oil Recycling for Climate Action

When we launched “Kusina to Kalikasan: Used Oil Recycling for Climate Action” on October 21, 2025, at M.B. Asistio Sr. High School in Caloocan City, I felt a deep sense of hope.  What began as a simple idea—to address improper disposal of used household cooking oil—became a meaningful movement for climate education, sustainability, and youth empowerment.  Standing beside the Interact Club of M.B. Asistio Sr. High School and our partner COPI International, I saw clearly how this project supports Rotary’s Environment Area of Focus and contributes to Community Economic Development, perfectly aligned with our club’s advocacy under Alagang Sampaguita in Action.

The idea took shape when environmental advocate Past President Atty. Lorna Kapunan agreed to speak to the students about climate change.  Past President Naty Osorio then suggested integrating household used-oil recycling into the project, turning awareness into concrete action.  As I observed the students listening intently to Atty. Kapunan—some wide-eyed, others exchanging meaningful glances—I realized how eager the youth are to understand their role in protecting our planet.

After the talk, our partner COPI International conducted a lecture-style session, showing the students examples of how used cooking oil should be safely stored, filtered, and prepared for collection. Although no actual hands-on training took place, COPI’s clear demonstrations and real-life examples helped the students grasp how simple changes in their household habits can protect waterways and reduce pollution. Seeing the students ask thoughtful questions reassured me that they were ready to take this project seriously.

The school soon established its own collection system, encouraging students to bring used cooking oil from home. Later that day, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the school and COPI International, formalizing our partnership. COPI converts the collected oil into reusable materials, and the proceeds help fund the school’s environmental programs and student supplies. It was inspiring to witness how something as common as used oil could become both an environmental solution and a source of livelihood support.

More than 2,700 students, teachers, and staff benefited from the project. One of the moments that moved me the most was when the students raised their Eco Pledge cards. Their smiles, their raised hands, and their sense of pride showed me that they didn’t just understand the project—they embraced it. In that moment, I felt Rotary’s purpose in action: empowering communities through awareness, education, and shared responsibility.

Another highlight for me was the dedication of the Interact Club, who immediately committed to overseeing the long-term implementation and monitoring of the project. Their leadership ensures that Kusina to Kalikasan will continue long after the launch.

This pioneering effort is the first school-based used-oil recycling initiative in Caloocan City, and I believe it can be replicated anywhere. It proves that climate action can start with simple habits at home. Guided by our theme Unite for Good, the Rotary Club of Sampaguita Grace Park remains committed to championing community-driven environmental initiatives.

Through Kusina to Kalikasan, I was reminded that when Rotary, schools, partners, and youth work together, we don’t just recycle oil—we create hope, habits, and lasting change for our planet.

Written by: Evangeline “Vangie” Abanes, President, Rotary Club of Sampaguita Grace Park