LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) –- The Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) of the Provincial Government of of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) called on residents to adopt effective waste segregation practices within their homes.

In observance of Zero Waste Month, Tonette Killa, head of ENRO, called on households to properly segregate biodegradable from non-biodegradable waste.

“It seems like we really cannot attain zero waste. There is no such thing as zero waste because as long as we live, we keep on consuming. But the principle behind zero waste is actually to reduce waste,” said Killa.

When wastes are left unsegregated, there is a risk of contamination as different types of waste may be stored together.

Further, Killa said wastes that are not properly managed are challenging to treat or handle and often find their way into landfills.

To lessen environmental issues on waste, the head of ENRO stated that anyone can implement basic waste management in their homes. When properly segregated, households will be able to maintain cleanliness and prevent unwanted odors.

“If plastics and biodegradable products are mixed in one trash can, it would produce an unpleasant smell in your house. But when separated, it leaves no odor,” said Killa.

Moreover, she also shared that when proper waste segregation is observed, it would be easier to perform different processes such as composting, plastic recycling, and waste diversion.

To guide household members in separating different types of wastes, here are other simple tips from ENRO:

1.   Keep separate trash cans for dry and wet wastes. If possible, another for papers and one for the plastics;

2.   Dispose wet garbage daily;

3.   Do not mix batteries and chemicals with regular wastes.

Zero Waste Month is observed nationwide every January which aims to promote proper and effective waste segregation and waste management. (MJTAB/PIA Ilocos Norte)