MMDA launches ‘road to zero waste’ summit

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) launched yesterday the “Road to Zero Waste” summit in Pasig.

According to the MMDA, the summit marks the start of a 10-year initiative aimed at transforming waste management practices across Metro Manila through public-private collaboration.

The MMDA said the summit is part of a comprehensive program, which aims to shift from a traditional linear to a circular economy focused on waste reduction, recycling and resource recovery.

The event, which was attended by public officials and private sector partners, featured exhibits of products made from recycled waste and highlighted technologies that utilize waste as raw materials for new products.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes emphasized the need for cooperation to achieve the objectives of the initiative.

MMDA general manager Procopio Lipana said the plan includes protecting landfills and adhering to waste management laws.

The MMDA cited recent studies, including its own 2023 waste analysis and characterization study, which found that about 21.44 percent of household waste is recyclable.

Artes noted that unmanaged waste poses environmental risks, including flooding, economic loss and public health issues.