SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) 1 is advocating waste-to-energy solutions to address plastic waste management issues in the Ilocos Region.
One of the key strategies introduced is co-processing, a method that repurposes non-recyclable plastic waste as an alternative fuel in cement production.
This approach reduces landfill waste while providing a renewable energy source for industries.
Lawrence Bautista, sales and operations manager of Green Cycle Innovative Solutions Inc., explained that co-processing can help manage plastic waste more efficiently while promoting energy recovery.
“Plastic waste collection remains a challenge in certain areas, and stronger partnerships with local government units and communities are needed to improve segregation and recovery efforts,” Bautista said.
With increasing urbanization and economic activities in the Ilocos Region, co-processing offers a sustainable waste management solution by diverting plastic and combustible waste from landfills and using it as an energy source.
Another waste-to-resource solution being introduced is Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology, presented by Dr. Rolando James Bayang of Doc Brahman Agritech Services.
BSF larvae break down biodegradable waste, converting it into protein-rich animal feed and organic fertilizer, offering another form of waste-to-value conversion.
The larvae serve as a low-cost, high-protein feed alternative for poultry, fish, and livestock, reducing reliance on imported feeds while also enhancing soil quality and improving crop yields for farmers in Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, and La Union.
Engr. Nicanor Esteban, officer-in-charge regional director of DENR-EMB 1, emphasized the importance of innovative waste management solutions in environmental conservation.
“Solid waste management stands at the forefront of our challenges, demanding innovative solutions and partnerships. Let us leverage this platform to showcase successful waste management practices and learn from each other’s experiences,” Esteban said.
The discussions formed part of the 9th Regional Ecological Solid Waste Management Summit in Candon City, Ilocos Sur, on Feb. 7, where stakeholders explored scalable waste-to-energy and waste-to-resource innovations.
With co-processing and BSF technology offering practical solutions, stakeholders in the Ilocos Region are optimistic that these approaches will contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. (CCMT/AIHR, PIA Region 1)
