Manila: The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) are urging for an amendment to the current law on the retirement of worn-out flags. The agencies released a position paper on Tuesday, advocating for a more sustainable approach to flag disposal.

According to Philippines News Agency, the existing law, Republic Act No. 8491, mandates that worn-out flags must be burned, with the ashes collected and buried to prevent misuse and desecration. However, the agencies are pushing for sustainable textile recycling or circularity, noting that burning nylon-made flags contributes significantly to carbon emissions. A single flag measuring 3' X 5' and weighing 300 grams, when burned, produces 0.72 kilograms of carbon dioxide.

The position paper highlights the environmental hazards of burning synthetic nylon flags, which undergo harmful chemical transformations. It states that the combustion process releases nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 298 times more potent than carbon dioxide, as well as toxic vapors like hydrogen cyanide. Additionally, buried ashes degrade into microplastics, potentially contaminating soil for decades.

Julius Lea±o, Director of PTRI, emphasized the potential of technology in recycling flag materials. In a message to the Philippine News Agency, he mentioned that the threads from retired flags could be repurposed for embroidery and weaving. These recycled threads could be used for decorative purposes on medals and recognitions, or as embroidery on flags and clothing, offering a sustainable alternative to the current practice.