Community action vs plastic waste takes off

Sta. Barbara, Iloilo—Various sectors, starting with the schools, have declared their commitment to reduce plastic waste in this town, which was adjudged as Galing Pook Awardee in Ecological Solid Waste Management in 2003.

This declaration of commitment is expressed in a Manifesto which is being circulated around the town, for people from all walks of life, to sign.  The circulation of the manifesto is coupled with information and education campaign on the hazards of uncontrolled use of non-biodegradable cellophanes and plastics.

Municipal Administrator Abdul Rahman “Lyndofer” V. Beup said that the communities and the different sectors are expected to develop stronger commitment against the use of plastics and cellophanes during the three-month phasing out period. 

During the phasing-out period, the campaign is intensified at the public market and the establishments which are users of plastics and cellophanes.  The people will also be encouraged to go back to the traditional “alat” (basket), “libon” or supot (paper bag).

After which, a municipal ordinance will be formulated and consequently passed prohibiting the use of non-biodegradable plastics (because there are biodegradable ones already made available).  The alternative biodegradable plastics and cellophanes should be preferred by vendors and buyers but they have to pay for it, unlike the ones which go as wrappers for what they buy.

“If the people will not buy the biodegradable plastics then they go back to bringing native baskets to the market,” Beup said.

Beup also said that a national law is needed to stop the use of cellophanes and plastics, but at least, there can be a local innovation, as what they are beginning to do in Sta. Barbara.  He added that this might be the first initiative in the country.

The Manifesto said that there are scientific evidences that plastic products and waste, if allowed to burn and pollute our environment, could result to ecological damage and health hazards.

The commitment to reduce plastic wastes is shown by avoiding or minimizing the use of plastic bags at home, commercial establishments, market, food service sectors and offices and providing, among others, incentives and rewards for business firms and groups.

Moreover, the manifesto is urging Congress to enact measures minimizing, if not totally banning, the use of plastic products.

Beup said this initiative is seen as contributing much to the town's goal of being garbage-free in the year 2012.  (PIA/ESSubong)