There is now a safer option in disposing of old cellphones, laptops and electronic equipment through the “Drop Your E-Waste” campaign of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in partnership with SM City Pampanga.
The electronic waste (e-waste) collection campaign is in line with the celebration of the Philippine Environment Month, where people may drop their old gadgets and equipment at designated drop stations inside SM City Pampanga and partner agencies.
The launching of the program at the DENR regional office saw employees and clients gathering their discarded electronic items in drop bins to encourage public participation in responsible waste management.
Proper e-waste disposal prevents toxic pollution and helps reduce landfill waste.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the project supports the goal of reducing plastic and toxic pollution, in line with this year’s theme, “Ending Global Plastic Pollution.”
The DENR highlighted the environmental and health benefits of proper e-waste handling.
The agency said materials recovered from the collection will be processed for recycling or safe disposal.
E-waste contains mercury, cadmium, and flame retardants that require special disposal.
“This collaboration shows the importance of working with private sector partners to instill environmentally sound waste practices and create lasting change in how communities manage hazardous waste,” Pablo said.
The DENR said that all collected e-waste will be handled in compliance with Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000) and Republic Act No. 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990).