Design by Doing: Eco Warriors Lead the Creation of New Professional Field Uniforms

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — In a move to further professionalize the informal waste sector, Project Zacchaeus (PZC) has unveiled the new official field uniform for its Eco Warriors, developed through a collaborative Design Thinking process. Unlike traditional corporate procurement, the features, colors, and materials of the new gear were entirely conceptualized and tested by the waste collectors themselves.

The initiative acknowledges that those who operate daily in the field are the best-equipped to define the technical requirements of their workwear.

The Design Thinking Framework

The development process followed a user-centric approach, prioritizing functionality, safety, and identity. Through a series of workshops and "feedback loops," the Eco Warriors identified the specific challenges of their environment—ranging from extreme heat and heavy rainfall to the need for high visibility during early morning or late-night collection rounds.

Key design elements suggested and approved by the workers include:

• Usability and Ergonomics: The uniforms feature reinforced stitching and pocket placements optimized for the tools used during waste recovery and segregation.

• Safety and Visibility: Bright, high-contrast colors and reflective strips were integrated based on worker requests to ensure safety while navigating city traffic and low-light areas.

• Climate Adaptation: The choice of breathable, quick-dry fabric was a direct response to the humid tropical climate of Puerto Princesa, ensuring comfort during long shifts.

• Identity and Pride: The color palette and branding were selected by the group to foster a sense of unity and to distinguish them as professional environmental stewards rather than informal scavengers.

Co-Creation and Empowerment

By involving the Eco Warriors in the design phase, PZC ensured that the final product was not just a garment, but a tool for empowerment. The workers’ input on the "fit-for-purpose" aspects of the uniform—such as sleeve length and ventilation—ensures high adoption rates and long-term durability.

"This uniform is a result of listening to the experts on the ground," noted PZC operations personnel. "When the workers design their own gear, they are designing their own professional future. It changes how they see themselves and how the community perceives their vital role in the circular economy."

The rollout of these co-designed uniforms marks a significant milestone in the Eco-Kolek program, reinforcing the transition of the informal waste sector into a respected, organized, and professionalized workforce in Palawan.