Western Philippines University (WPU) has taken another step toward environmental sustainability by prohibiting the use of tarpaulins across all its campuses, colleges, and units. The directive, issued through the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance (OVPAF) under Memorandum No. OVPAF 2025-088, reinforces the university’s commitment to reducing non-biodegradable waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Under the new policy, the use of tarpaulins for event announcements, greetings, and other promotional displays is no longer permitted. Only long-term institutional materials such as the Citizen’s Charter, Organizational Structure, Vision and Mission, and Quality Policy are exempted. This move encourages all departments and organizations within WPU to adopt digital and reusable platforms for information dissemination and event promotion.

The memorandum directs the use of official university digital platforms—including the WPU website, social media pages, LED screens, and bulletin boards—as the primary channels for communication. Campus directors and deans have been instructed to ensure full compliance, with any violations subject to corrective action.

Through this policy, WPU strengthens its role as a “Strong Partner for Sustainable Development,” aligning its internal operations with the principles of responsible consumption and production. The initiative contributes to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable alternatives in university practices.

[This article is in line with the SDGs 12, 13, 15, & 17]