The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority aims to enhance its zero waste campaign by implementing holistic strategies to promote sustainable waste management in the metropolis.
“With the execution of solid waste management-related interventions that the MMDA is currently pursuing in cooperation with local government units and the private sector, we will be able to achieve a cleaner Metro Manila in the shortest possible time,” said MMDA chairman Don Artes.
MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana said the agency has long advocated for a cleaner Metro Manila by promoting waste reduction practices.
“To reach our targets, we hope that all stakeholders will work together to create a unified and efficient system, establish partnerships, and collaborate with businesses to identify and implement waste diversion strategies with our recyclers,” Lipana said.
“Only then will we be able to reduce waste volume and increase recycling, transforming waste into valuable resources until we reach net zero,” he added.
According to a 2023 Waste Analysis and Characterization study conducted by the MMDA in Metro Manila, nearly 21.44 percent of household waste can be recycled.
Additionally, a report from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau estimates that 85 percent of generated waste can be composted.
“We cannot ignore the urgent need to address these types of waste. If left unattended, they will continue to degrade our environment, pollute our waterways, contribute to increasing flooding, and hinder economic growth, ultimately impacting our economy and public health,” said Artes.
The MMDA held its first-ever Road to Zero Waste Summit in November of last year, with the goal of promoting and demonstrating practices that support a more sustainable and circular economy, while addressing pressing issues related to solid waste management in the metropolis.
Key features of the summit included forums led by reputable speakers from various sectors and advocacy groups, with discussions focused on both community and metro-wide approaches. Panel discussions and sessions facilitated network mapping with an interactive design to educate participants about proper waste segregation and currently mapped waste diversion points to recyclers in Metro Manila, promoting sustainability. Campaigns highlighted the importance of proper segregation and resource value, along with alternative methods for waste handling.
On January 24, the agency also held its Road to Zero Waste Expo at the MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy in Pasig City.
The expo, themed “Clean Metro Manila,” aims to expand its impact by engaging a broader range of communities and strengthening waste management systems.
Organized by the MMDA Solid Waste Management Office, this initiative seeks to enhance public awareness and significantly increase waste diversion rates through a series of impactful activities aligned with the 10-Year Road to Zero Waste Program.
