Jamitz Jon Antonio
De La Salle University Manila
Pia Manalastas
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The company's innovation lies in transforming water hyacinth into plant-based leather used to craft various items. In the Philippines, this initiative generates employment in lakeside areas affected by water hyacinths, providing economic empowerment. Additionally, it contributes to a positive environmental impact by addressing challenges caused by water hyacinths, such as obstructing water transport, limiting fishing opportunities, causing flooding, and increasing waterborne diseases.
The groundbreaking innovation by Jacinto & Lirio centers around the ingenious conversion of water hyacinth into plant-based leather. This process has given rise to eco-friendly products, including bags, wallets, notebook journals, ID lanyards, wallpaper, and other customized items. This inventive solution emerged in response to the challenges posed by the proliferation of water hyacinths in lakeside areas of the Philippines. The initiative was driven by a collective effort involving local artisans and community members who contributed to creating these sustainable leather goods. This collaborative approach addresses environmental concerns associated with water hyacinths and promotes economic growth and empowerment within affected communities. "We are proud to say that, by just operating the business, we are not only making profits, but we are also helping other people make a living and, at the same time, helping the environment," said Sherina, J&L's finance and HR admin associate of J&L.
The individuals crafting this innovation played pivotal roles, transforming a perceived environmental threat into a source of economic opportunity. The artisans demonstrated their skill in creating high-quality products and contributed to a sense of shared purpose by providing employment opportunities. Moreover, the initiative enables parents in lakeside areas to support their children's education, creating a pathway for upward mobility.
In response to the challenges posed by the proliferation of water hyacinths in lakeside areas of the Philippines, Jacinto & Lirio's initiative contributes to several SDGs. SDG 1 is addressed by providing a crucial market link for communities affected by water hyacinth infestations, promoting livelihood growth and development. SDG 8 takes center stage, emphasizing decent work and economic growth, as the innovation creates employment opportunities for local artisans and community members, turning an environmental threat into a source of economic opportunity. Furthermore, the initiative aligns with SDG 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production through sustainable material sourcing and supports SDG 13 by contributing to climate action through addressing the environmental hazards associated with water hyacinth infestations. Additionally, SDG 15 is upheld by the company's commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Jacinto & Lirio's innovation is more than a creative solution to an ecological challenge; it signifies a holistic commitment to fostering sustainable economic development, supporting decent work, and empowering communities grappling with environmental issues.
The story of Jacinto & Lirio begins with the founder's lifelong love for recycling, fashion, and arts and crafts. From a young age, she was deeply committed to taking care of the environment and was very interested in the creative aspects of fashion. This dedication became even stronger during her college years when these passions became a focused cause.
Sherina highlighted the founder's lasting commitment: "Our founder, Anne Mariposa-Yee mentioned that ever since she was young, she has been very much into recycling, fashion, and arts and crafts." These three interests played a crucial role in shaping the founder's view on the potential of turning waste materials into something valuable, bringing together environmental awareness and a sense of style.
As the founder neared the end of her college education and had to work on her thesis project, she saw a chance to turn her passion into a genuine initiative. This critical moment marked a deliberate choice to connect her commitment to recycling with the fashion world. In this context, exploring water hyacinth as a material for plant-based leather unfolded as a groundbreaking idea.
The combination of these elements—recycling, fashion, and arts and crafts—acted as the spark for the creation of Jacinto & Lirio. This creative project addressed environmental concerns related to water hyacinths and showcased a visionary approach to sustainable fashion and design. The founder's journey from childhood interests to the founding of Jacinto & Lirio highlights the transformative power of blending passion, environmental awareness, and artistic creativity to produce innovative solutions with a significant impact.
Since its establishment in 2009, Jacinto & Lirio has continuously demonstrated its commitment to positively impacting communities affected by water hyacinth infestation in the Philippines. The innovation's enduring effects are evidenced by the company's sustained operation over the years.
In the short term, families in these communities experienced immediate economic benefits as they produced and sold water hyacinth leather goods, leading to increased income. This financial empowerment directly and positively impacted education, enabling parents to support their children's schooling.
"Over the long term, the innovation's influence extends beyond economic improvements, addressing critical environmental challenges water hyacinth poses. Notably, reducing obstacles to water transport, enhancing fishing opportunities, minimizing flooding, and decreasing waterborne diseases highlight the lasting positive effects," added Sherina.
The continued success and growth of Jacinto & Lirio, spanning from 2009 until today, underscore the innovation's enduring impact, solidifying its role in fostering economic resilience and environmental sustainability in the communities it serves.
Jacinto & Lirio's initiative benefits the communities affected by water hyacinth infestation and contributes significantly to the business's success. The company has created a sustainable business model that aligns with its social impact, environmental protection, and product innovation mission. As highlighted in previous responses, the economic empowerment provided to families in lakeside communities forms a foundation for the company's success. Families creating and selling water hyacinth leather products contribute to the business's production and expansion.
Moreover, the positive environmental impact of the innovation enhances the company's reputation and market position. "By addressing challenges related to water hyacinth, our company, Jacinto & Lirio promotes a healthier and more sustainable environment," said Sherina. This commitment to environmental responsibility resonates with consumers and corporate clients, contributing to the business's credibility and appeal.
Furthermore, the company's ability to attract corporate clients, including significant entities in the Philippines, such as banks, car manufacturers, real estate companies, and telecommunication companies, underscores the innovation's market viability. The fact that these corporate clients place substantial orders, often in large quantities, for corporate giveaways and office supplies indicates the innovation's widespread recognition and acceptance in the business community. This boosts the company's revenue and establishes Jacinto & Lirio as a key player in the sustainable products market, showcasing the interdependent relationship between the innovation's positive impact on communities and the business's success.
Sherina mentioned, "The innovation introduced by Jacinto & Lirio significantly benefits society and the environment." Firstly, by addressing the water hyacinth infestation problem, the innovation directly impacts communities affected by the environmental hazards caused by this invasive plant. The communities, particularly in Laguna, Rizal, and other areas with significant water hyacinth infestations, face livelihood sustainability and market access constraints. Jacinto & Lirio provide a crucial market link for these communities, promoting the growth and development of their livelihoods. This, in turn, contributes to food security and poverty alleviation, addressing essential aspects of societal well-being.
On the environmental front, Jacinto & Lirio's innovation profoundly impacts mitigating the adverse effects of water hyacinth infestation. Water hyacinth is recognized as the most damaging aquatic plant globally, with rapid proliferation leading to the choking of lakes and rivers. In Laguna de Bay alone, it covers about 20% of the lake's surface area, causing disruptions to local ecosystems. Jacinto & Lirio actively contributes to reducing the spread of this invasive species by utilizing water hyacinth to create plant-based leather products. This addresses ecological imbalances caused by the plant and alleviates water transportation, fishing, and irrigation problems. The company's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its efforts to turn a once problematic plant into a valuable resource, ultimately promoting a healthier ecosystem and enhancing the overall well-being of society and the environment.
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Sherina Difuntorum, Finance & HR Administrative Associate
JACINTO & LIRIO, translating to "Hyacinth" and "Lily," is a social enterprise turning water hyacinth, considered a "pest," into environmentally friendly, multi-functional leather goods. The mission is to empower families affected by water hyacinth infestation through sustainable livelihoods.