Mandatory segregation of solid waste to be conducted at the source
The mandatory segregation of solid waste falls under R.A. No. 9003, also known as the “Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.” Its target population is the general public as one of its aims is to implement the minimization or reduction as well as proper segregation of solid waste at the source through set guidelines and waste management programs. It also highlights the importance of the assistance and action of Local Government Units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), and private sectors to realize the planned activities of (a) closing and rehabilitating dumpsites, (b) establishing material recovery facilities (MRFs), and overall, (c) implementing an “environmentally sound disposal system” (DENR, 2019).
One of its main advantages, which is also the main purpose and goal of the act, is the "protection of the public health and environment”. When there is successful implementation and practice of solid waste management starting from the source—such as households, establishments, buildings, manufacturers, etc.—there will be overall cleanliness of the land and streets with no clogging of drainages, especially during floods. There will also be physical safety and protection from pollution and contamination of biohazardous wastes that may cause illnesses and diseases; hence, contributing to community health improvement. Other benefits and advantages include enhanced environmental health, organization, health and sanitation promotion, reduction of pest infestation likelihood, and possible generation of funds from recyclable and reusable materials (“10 Reasons…”, 2018). There are also no disadvantages. However, it must be considered that not all households may have the privilege to have extra space to segregate their wastes.
In my locality, however, ecological solid waste management is not fully being followed or implemented. Trash to be collected by garbage collectors outside of their households is stored in 1-3 big black garbage bags or boxes with no labels on which waste is (at the very least) biodegradable, non-biodegradable, recyclable, and hazardous. In the main streets, trash is still littered everywhere—near the canals, in grasslands, and on sidewalks. Sacks of mixed wastes can be seen dumped on random sites along walkways, sometimes with flies seen flying around them. Foul odor and smell can be breathed in when walking past these sites.
This may imply that while the healthy public policy is present, the challenge and fight centers on proper implementation, information dissemination to the communities and the public, and monitoring of waste management practices. Giving of incentives and emphasizing the health and environmental benefits of solid waste segregation, proper disposal, collection, and management may encourage the citizens to follow said practices.
References:
Department of Environment and Natural Resources [DENR]. (2019, January 11). https://www.denr.gov.ph/index.php/priority-programs/solid-waste-management
Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 s.2 (Phil.). https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2001/01/26/republic-act-no-9003-s-2001/
“10 Reasons To Commit Yourself to Proper Waste Disposal.” (2018, April 26). https://www.lakemacquarieskips.com.au/10-reasons-to-commit-yourself-to-proper-waste-disposal/