BAGUIO CITY (PIA) -- The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) underscored the importance of involving the community in solid waste management.

EMB Cordillera senior environmental management specialist Mark Anthony Solano said that local government units are mandated to manage wastes in their jurisdiction, but it is also advised to partner with non-government organizations for alternative means of managing wastes.

Involving the community is the most significant aspect in managing and handling waste, Solano said.

"Madanon kuma diyay tiempo nga awan ti maibelleng [a basura], mausar tayo amin dagita. Imbes kuma nga ibelleng, mabalin tayo a mausar dagita as resources,[We want that the community will operate the MRF so that members of the community will feel that they are part of solid waste management]" he said.  
 

This year, the EMB-CAR is pushing for communities to manage the designated materials recovery facility (MRF) in their area.

 MRF is a structure where recyclable wastes are stored or processed, and then sold to junk shops to generate additional revenue for the LGU.

"Dayta MRF, nu mabalin ket aramiden nga community ti mang-operate tapnu ti members ti community, marikna da a parte da iti panag-manage iti solid waste," Solano said.

[We want that the community will operate the MRF so that members of the community will feel that they are part of solid waste management.]

He shared that based on EMB  data, the daily waste generation in Baguio City increased by 24.52 percent in 2023 compared to 2022.

Solano explained that this is partly due to lifestyle wherein online shopping is the trend now. Items shopped online are often wrapped with layers of plastic and bubble wrap, increasing the volume of wastes.

Solano reminded the public to follow  the laws and ordinances on proper waste management. He stressed that everyone should take responsibility for their waste, and practice the three R's - reduce, reuse, and recycle.(JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)