STRATEGIC ZERO WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OF BACOOR CAVITE, PHILIPPINES: BASIS FOR HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT CAMPAIGN

Abstract

The concept of zero waste advocates the “no waste” practice across societies, from individuals and households to enterprises and industries. There are prevailing issues and challenges in the current system of waste management in local government. Critics of the “plastic ban policy” assert that no significant change and impact was made from the time the local ordinance was implemented. However, interest groups have claimed that to confront the never-ending problem of waste is to strengthen the current policy through the adoption of zero waste management (ZWM). This system offers an alternative solution and remedy to the non-negotiable impacts of waste materials on the environment and public security. This study is designed to develop a proposal on waste management that will be utilized by the local government of Bacoor City, Cavite. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the waste management system as well as its problems and constraints in implementation. With the existing implementation of solid waste management, a strategic zero waste management system is offered to strengthen the government’s effort in dealing with problems concerning waste. This strategic program covers key phases from the assessment of the current system to the implementation and post-evaluation of the project. Furthermore, a community relations approach was also introduced as an action plan in ZW management focusing on the promotion of sustainable development. Included in this study is the employment of 111 resident-homeowners of Bacoor City who were involved in the conduct of survey and interview through the use of structured questionnaire instruments. Findings of this qualitative-quantitative descriptive research show that issues of waste management centers on public awareness and information campaigns on the dynamics of the program and concerns on measures used in the restriction of plastic waste where institutionalized and standardized policies are needed. Furthermore, priority issues reveal that the local government needs to confront and address the different issues on waste management. Respondents have clearly observed that resources are key requirements if a ZW management is to be implemented. The availability of technology, equipment, and material flow is necessary to handle and manage if ever a ZW management is to be introduced in the city. On the other hand, the current system of waste management in Bacoor was observed as very effective. Its effectiveness is seen in the active community involvement and participation in waste management. Article visualizations: