Wednesday, January 14, 2009 Village councils urged to form solid waste mgt board
DAVAO City Councilor Teresita Mata-Marañon urged barangay councils to create their Barangay Solid Waste Management Board while mulling the creation of the Davao City Central Nursery.
The nursery will be constructed so any group that wishes to go into tree planting activities can get seedlings for free or for a minimal fee.
Marañon said in her Tuesday's privilege speech that the project is part of the proper implementation of the Solid Waste Management Act, as well as the intensification of programs on reforestation, which is timely and essential to the city.
"I observed the flooded areas of our city during the holidays, and they are worsening. The areas like Bangkal near DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), Quimpo Boulevard approaching Citihardware, Matina approaching Davao Memorial Park, and portions of Bajada really caught my attention. It was not like this 10 years ago," Marañon said, adding that this is primarily brought about by irresponsible disposal of garbage.
Marañon said the urbanization and absence of enough trees in the high land areas (Marilog, Paquibato and Baguio) that could absorb rainwaters in case of heavy downpour are also contributing factors to the flooding.
"Most of us are aware that plastic and sando bags can clog our esteros and waterways, causing flood even with light rains, but many are still throwing plastic trash or cellophane anywhere," she said.
Citing data from the City Planning Development Office which was given during their legislative planning session, Marañon said in 2008, the entire Davao City generated 720 tons of waste per day, 60 percent of which were from residences or households and the rest were from commercial, agricultural and industrial establishments.
Of the total waste generated, 30 percent were compostable, 21 percent recyclable, 21 percent reusable, and the remaining 28 percent were residual and special waste (like batteries).
"Granting 20 percent is residual waste, then only 144 tons out of 720 should be collected and dumped in the sanitary landfill when it becomes operational. It is high time that we reduce garbage at source, and this is possible only if we practice segregation," Marañon said.
With less garbage to be collected, Marañon said the city could save gas. There is also no need for additional garbage trucks.
She added that the segregation of wastes could be better implemented down to the barangay level if each barangay has its own Barangay Solid Waste Management Board. (GLP)
