DENR declares QC as model for solid waste management

The Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) declared Quezon City yesterday as its local government unit model for the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Act in their respective localities.

Albert Magalang, executive director of the DENR’s Solid Waste Management Commission, said solid waste segregation and recycling being implemented by Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. in various barangays as well as the conversion of the Payatas from an open dump into a controlled facility is now being replicated all over the country.

"Quezon City has become the partner of the DENR in promoting awareness among local governments in preserving the environment," Magalang told City Hall employees during the launching of the weeklong celebration of Earth Day at the City Hall grounds yesterday morning.

He cited several ecological management programs being implemented by the city government in Barangays Holy Spirit, Escopa, Talayan, Bagong Buhay, Libis, UP, Phil-Am and other barangyas in the city.

Magalang said an ordinance enacted by the City Council providing incentives to barangays that are implementing effective waste management has been adopted as a model ordinance for replication by local government units nationwide.

"Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Michael Defensor, in all his meetings with local chief executives, always presents the Quezon City ordinance so that other cities and municipalities can enact similar measures," Magalang said.

He said Quezon City has practically became the "national laboratory" for effective techniques on proper waste management.