In an effort to combat the city’s waste problem and foster a green economy, Tingi Station, a refilling station in Baguio City, offers zero waste options for all kinds of products, empowering customers to make environmentally friendly choices.
Elke Cadangen, co-founder of Tingi Station, said in an online interview on June 4, “We were able to promote zero waste in the city through customer empowerment, where we give them as much information as we can regarding the concept zero waste and also the products that we have, so it encourages consumers to be more responsible and aware of the products they buy.”
With its quaint and cozy atmosphere, Tingi Station invites visitors into a world where an array of jars with personal care items, laundry and cleaning products, food essentials, and pantry necessities adorn the walls. Here, convenience and sustainability harmoniously coexist, making it easier than ever to make eco-friendly choices.
This innovative zero waste refilling station, established on January 21, 2022, at Megatower Residences 2, Salud Mitra in Baguio City, is revolutionizing waste management practices and driving residents of Baguio to embrace a zero waste lifestyle with ease and convenience.
“The store also served as a gateway where new or none practicing zero waste lifestyle individuals can start a low-impact way of living,” Cadangen said.
Her statements stand as a testament to the transformative potential of sustainable living. Tingi Station has assumed a vanguard role in effecting positive change by empowering its customers and disseminating knowledge about zero waste.
Unveiling a Sustainable Solution for Baguio
Baguio City, known for its natural beauty, recognizes the significance of minimizing waste and embracing sustainable alternatives.
According to Baguio City's 2022 Waste Analysis and Characterization Study conducted by the City Solid Waste Board, a staggering 581,792.60 kilograms of waste is generated daily.
“Waste management is everyone’s concern and community involvement is the key to solve the waste problem,” Mayor Benjamin Magalong said in an interview with Baguio Midland Courier on January 22, 2023.
Tingi Station plays a role in driving the shift towards a greener future. With its focus on promoting a zero waste lifestyle, Tingi Station aspires to set the stage for an economy that flourishes while prioritizing environmental well-being.
Born from Necessity, Inspired by Culture
In December 2020, the founders recognized the pressing need for zero waste options and innovative waste management solutions in the community. However, their journey toward embracing a low-impact lifestyle began with the influence of their late mother, who imparted lessons on resource maximization and extending the lifespan of possessions.
Cadangen explains, "She's also into gardening, so she did a lot of composting, too. We got the mindset and learnings from her."
Motivated by their mother's teachings, the lack of sustainable options in the market—especially refill systems aligned with their low-impact aspirations—pushed them further.
"As we all know, Baguio City has a huge garbage problem. We were hoping putting up a zero waste store could help inspire others and see the importance and impact of living low waste," she said.
Nurturing a Growing Community
According to Cadangen, Tingi Station empowers customers to make a difference through education and engagement.
She shared that "New customers usually ask questions on how it works, and we usually use that opportunity to engage and educate customers on the concept of zero waste."
As a zero waste refilling store, they highly encourage customers to bring their own containers and reuse what they already have in their homes, effectively sidestepping single-use plastics.
With a passion for sustainability, Tingi Station serves as a transformative gateway, empowering individuals to combat the global waste crisis with their actions, Cadangen said.
"They also have the power to choose the right products that's good for them and the environment," she asserts, highlighting the importance of making conscious and responsible choices.
“As of now there's a small community of zero waste practitioners here in the city,” Cadangen said. Tingi Station shared it remains optimistic for a brighter future.
She stated that, "We are being hopeful that more people would be open to this kind of lifestyle through the help of the LGU (Local Government Units) and the private sector in spreading awareness."
It is a journey that requires patience and perseverance, but Cadangen said she firmly believes in the adaptability and resilience of the Baguio community.
As they continue championing sustainability, Tingi Station strives to nurture this growing community, envisioning a city where zero waste living becomes second nature to its residents.
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