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EDITORIAL
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January 26, 2018
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THE Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) Act or Republic Act (RA) 9003 marks its 17th anniversary today. It was in Jan. 26, 2001 when it was enacted, nearly two decades ago. But we have yet to achieve 100 percent compliance by local government units and mainstream effective waste management practices into our daily consciousness.
The law aims to create a clean and healthy environment using a system of solid waste management that includes segregation of garbage at source, segregated transportation, processing, treatment and proper disposal of solid waste. It emphasizes recycling so that minimal residual garbage is actually brought to the sanitary landfill. And it bans open dumpsites, the use of incinerators, and burning of waste.
The overall goal of this law is the protection of public health and the environment thru the eco-friendly disposal of solid waste. However, much still needs to be done by authorities to implement ecological solid waste management plans and strictly enforce regulations on garbage segregation and disposal.
And while all local government units are mandated to have a solid waste management plan, the private sector and citizens are also encouraged to undertake such initiatives. We are all called for to pursue efforts that would support this cause.
The heart of the ESWM Law is its inherent purpose towards a paradigm shift, a change to a low carbon, zero waste lifestyle. That is why segregation at source is among the main facets of the law because implementation must start in our own homes.
From segregation and recycling in workplaces to conducting coastal clean-ups, we all can do more. Each of us has opportunities to make a difference for our future. We must take hold of the opportunity to responsibly manage our environment. Let us veer away from the throwaway culture. Let us make the Earth a sustainable, safe and healthy planet for all of us and for the future generations.
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