MODULE IV

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

 INTRODUCTION

This module discusses concepts on environmental management and protection.

Current Philippine environmental situation along with principles and laws will also be
presented. It is hoped that you will realize the impact of stressful effects of human
activities to the environment. Furthermore, we hoped that you will be sensitive in
dealing with these actions and be more responsible in protecting and enhancing the
environment.

OBJECTIVES

After studying the module, you should be able to:

1. Discuss the importance of principles and laws governing environmental

protection and management.
2. suggest activities to sustain the environment.
3. enumerate ways in protecting and managing the environment including the
forest and water areas.

 DIRECTIONS/ MODULE ORGANIZER

There are four lessons in the module. Read each lesson carefully then answer
the exercises/activities to find out how much you have benefited from it. Work on
these exercises carefully and submit your output to your trainer or to the NSTP office.

In case you encounter difficulty, discuss this with your trainer during the face-
to-face meeting. If not contact your trainer through SMS or other mode of
communication.

Good luck and happy reading!!!

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

Lesson 1

 Environmental Protection and Management

Introduction (Principles and Laws)

Overview

Environmental protection can be defined as the prevention of unwanted

changes to ecosystems and their constituent parts while environmental management
may be defined as the totality of all actions/ projects planned, organized and
directed towards the conservation of our natural resources the maintenance of
ecological balance and; the solutions to the different environmental problems
resulting from man’s action.

As has been repeated over the years, environmental management and

protection should not be taken as the concern of just a particular community,
government or nongovernmental agency, or even environmentalists for that matter. It
is everybody’s concern. As one writer puts it, “the job of conserving our natural
resources and preserving the ecological balance of our environment has become a
matter of national survival itself and to a larger extent, the continuity of life in this
planet.”

In this regard, it is but proper that our students in NSTP aiming to become
“agents of change” in the community, should actively participate in any action
related to environmental management and protection.

THINK!

How can I contribute in managing and protecting the

environment?

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

The Seven Environmental Principles

1. Everything is connected to everything else. (Ang lahat ng bagay ay magkakaugnay)

The intricate relationships of various elements of the ecosystem bind the
components together into one functional unit. The living component of the
ecosystem affects and is affected by the abiotic components, such as air,
temperature, land. Inter-specific relationships create a dependency with each
other so that they both have to co-exist to live. All these relationships provide
dependencies, check and balances that compose the details of our life-support
systems. Human interaction with nature oftentimes alters the ecosystems. What
are these human interactions that alter the ecosystems?

2. All forms of life are important. (Ang lahat na may buhay ay mahalaga)
All living organisms were created for a purpose in relation to humans, other
species on earth and global ecosystem in general. Thus, when a species becomes
extinct, it is like removing a piece of a jigsaw puzzle from the web of life. The
variety of life forms, manifested by the different levels of biological diversity –
community, species and genes – contributes to the stability of the environment.
The Philippines ranks high among the biodiversity hotspots – the richest but the
most threatened of terrestrial ecosystems in the world. The composition of
biological diversity naturally changes slowly but the rate of transition has become
faster due to factors such as habitat destruction. To maintain ecological balance,
therefore, the conservation of genes, species and ecosystems becomes essential to
keep life together.

3. Everything must go somewhere. (Ang lahat ng bagay ay may patutunguhan.)

By-products of consumption go back to the environment. Everything that we
throw away – pieces of paper, left-over food, peelings of fruits, plastic wrappers,
used containers – have to go somewhere. Even plants and animals have their own
wastes – feces, urine, dead leaves and branches. It is the law of nature that the
by-products of metabolism return to the soil, acted upon first by worms, bacteria
and fungi, and then converted into minerals, to be again absorbed by plants and
eaten by animals. In short, they enter into a material cycle that is an integral part
of the ecosystem. But what happens if what we throw is an artificial product such
as plastic?

4. Ours is a finite earth. (Ang kalikasan ay may hangganan)

Everything that we need is provided by nature in abundance – food, water,
energy, minerals and air. However, some resources that we depend upon
nowadays are extracted excessively but are slow to replace. These non-renewable
resources experience limits of supply. For instance, fossil fuels produced over
thousands of years may be exhausted in a hundred years. Some energy sources like
water, and wood may be replaced easier but have become inaccessible due to
pollution and excessive extraction. Diminishing forest cover have resulted from
logging, ineffective reforestation and continued land conversion. However, food
scarcity and poverty may have resulted from failed distribution systems rather

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 than inability of the land and water bodies to yield food. It can be argued that
increasing population decreases the amount of resources available to each person.
Carrying capacity, or the ability of the ecosystem to support a number of people,
may be influenced by limit of resources due to an increasing population. The
philosophy of “sapat”, suggests that we should buy and consume only what we
need and leave some for the less privileged and the next generation.

5. Nature knows best. (Ang kalikasan ang mas nakakaalam)

Nature manifests certain processes that enable it to maintain balance and
remain in a state of equilibrium. The nutrient cycling of nitrogen, carbon, sulfur
and phosphorous in the air, water and land indicates that minerals are utilized
within the confines of the earth. The flow of energy from the sun enables light to
be converted into sugar in plants through photosynthesis, and later for consumer
organisms to obtain energy from plant starch. Food chains and food webs allow
transfer of energy from producers and consumers and provide the means for all
living organisms to acquire nutrition. Population control also occurs naturally
through predator – prey relationships. The equilibrium in the ecosystem is
maintained, thus if humans intervene, unforeseen negative impacts known as
ecological backlash, may arise. Floods are often times backlashes of excessive
felling of trees. The importation of golden kuhol, that became a pest, reminds us
that biological organisms may not acclimatize in a new environment or may cause
harm to indigenous species. The environmental ethics promote that we conform to
ecological principles and stay close to natural products and processes. We should
patronize natural food and consumable materials.

6. Nature is beautiful and we are stewards of God’s creation. (Ang kalikasan ay

maganda at tayo ang tagapangasiwa ng lahat na nilikha ng Diyos)
Creation presupposes the existence of a Creator. The beautiful nature
around us, perfect by itself, has deteriorated due to the negative impacts of
human use. This principle suggests how a Human-Creator relationship is translated
in our attitude towards creation. Theologians explain that there are different
levels of this relationship. First is a relationship determined by dominion of
humans over creation, that humans can do as they wish because this was given by
God. The book of Genesis says “have dominion over the fish of the sea and the
birds of the air…” The second level is one of stewardship, that of a caretaker
where humans are not owners but guardians of the integrity of nature. The third
level promotes a kinship relationship postulated by St. Francis de Assisi in the
famous verse “Brother sun, Sister moon”, where humans are no higher than the
birds and fishes of the sea. Fourth is one of sacrament, where nature becomes a
testimony of God’s love. Fifth is a covenant relationship, where protection of the
earth is a life mission manifested in the things that we do and say. Different
religions from Islam to Buddhism to Judeo-Christian to indigenous people’s
animism express the belief of caring for the earth, including all creatures. Thus it
is the goal of environmental education and biodiversity conservation education to
motivate target audiences towards developing an eco-spirituality that moves them

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 into a more meaningful relationship with nature and a greater participation in the
biophysical economic processes that make this world a better place to live in.

7. Everything changes. (Ang lahat ay nagbabago)

Changes in the biophysical world occur naturally. As they say, there is
nothing more permanent in this world than change. Environmental impact
assessment (EIA) provides a tool for the projection, planning and management of
change brought about by industrialization and human settlement expansion.
Effluents can be managed through policy and pollution control techniques by both
industry and government to achieve clean air and water. Sustainable development
presents a paradigm of change for the 21st Century. Sustainable development
promotes ecological integrity, equitable sharing of resources and people
empowerment as pillars of growth. Biodiversity conservation contributes to
ecological integrity, through both in-situ and ex-situ techniques. Biodiversity
conservation becomes successful only if coupled with poverty alleviation,
improving equity of access to resources and instituting social change.
Environmental education facilitates social transformation by modifying attitudes
and behavior of people towards an ecological ethic.
*Adapted from Barry Commoner, as compiled by Miriam College.

Related Laws and Directives governing Environmental Management and Protection

Our 1987 Constitution recognizes the need for environmental protection and
ecological balance in at least 4 of its articles or at least 18 of its sections. Foremost
among these provisions is Sec. 16 of Article II, which states that “the state shall
protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in
accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.” To implement this policy, the
government came up in 1989 with the Philippine Strategy for Sustainable
Development, which gives emphasis to the environmental management aspect of all
development endeavors. Since then, NEDA has been including environmental
management in all its development plans in the regional and local levels.

Hazardous Substances and Wastes Management or RA 6969: Philippine Toxic

Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Act of 1990 (PTCHNWA). This Act
mandates the regulation, restriction, or prohibition of the importation, manufacture,
processing, sale, distribution, use, and disposal of chemical substances and mixtures
that present unreasonable risk and/or injury to health and the environment.
Air Quality Management Republic Act or RA 8749: Philippine Clean Air (PCAA) of
1999. The law that provides a comprehensive air pollution control policy. Specifically,
this legislative intends to apply air quality management in all sources in order to
implement abatement and control of air pollution. DENR Administrative Order (DAO)
2000-81: PCAA Implementing Rules and Regulations

Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000
was approved giving strong emphasis on the role of municipal and local government
units in Solid Waste Management. Solid Waste in this case includes all discarded,

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

households, commercial, industrial, institutional and agricultural debris or wastes
which may be non-hazardous or hazardous. This act considers non-hazardous solid
waste as resource that can be recovered through recycling, re-use, recovery and
composting thus eventually minimizing the bulks of waste that has to be collected and
treated or incinerated.

Republic Act No. 9512 or the National Environmental Awareness and Education
Act of 2008. An act to promote environmental awareness through environmental
education and for other purposes. This is giving institutional agencies to integrate
environmental education in its school curricula at all levels, whether public or
private, including in barangay daycare, preschool, non-formal, technical vocational,
professional level, indigenous learning and out-of-school youth courses or programs.
Environmental education shall encompass environmental concepts and principles,
environmental laws, the state of international and local environment, local
environmental best practices, the threats of environmental degradation and its
impact on human well-being, the responsibility of the citizenry to the environment
and the value of conservation, protection and rehabilitation of natural resources and
the environment in the context of sustainable development.

Climate Management or RA 9729, s.2009, or the Climate Change Act, is based

on declared policy of the State to systematically integrate the concept of climate
change in various phases of policy formulation, development plans, poverty reduction
strategies and other development tools and techniques by all agencies and
instrumentalities of the government. We must remember that Segregated Waste =
Resources and Mixed Waste = Garbage. In order to reduce waste, we have to
segregate the biodegradable (compostable) from non- biodegradable (recyclable)
waste. In the disposal of waste, observance to the prevailing laws, rules and
regulations is crucial. These can be contained in the Waste Management System or
Manual of the organization.

CHED Memorandum Order No. 33, series of 2009. Integration of Environmental

Education in the tertiary education curriculum particularly the Civic Welfare Training
Service (CWTS) component of the National Service Training Program.

Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022. In October 2016, President Rodrigo

Duterte signed off on AmBisyon Natin 2040, a long-term vision that articulates the
Filipinos’ aspirations 99 for a strongly-rooted, comfortable and secure life. Anchored
on this vision, the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017- 2022 details the country’s
development strategies to achieve inclusive growth, a high-trust and resilient society,
and a globally competitive knowledge economy. Supporting the goal to build resilient
communities and reduce poverty, 11 chapters in the PDP 2017-2022 involve climate-
related policies and measures. These promote climate-resilient infrastructure, energy
efficient technologies, forest rehabilitation, and improved health services for disaster
and climate-related illnesses. Waste Management Improper or mega dosage use of
cleaning chemicals, mounting packing materials of delivered equipment/tools and
empty or used containers, limited storing, recycling and disposal area of wastes

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

coming from training workshops, i.e. welding stubs, electronic devices, are few of the
issues to be dealt with in this topic. Waste management is the collection, transport,
processing, recycling or disposal of waste materials, usually ones by human activity,
in an effort to reduce their effect on human health or local aesthetics or amenity. A
sub focus in recent decades has been to reduce the effect of waste materials on the
environment and to recover resources from them.

 Learning Activity
Instructions: On the space below, paste a magazine or newspaper cutout of any
photograph that shows destruction of the environment. Then, answer the questions
that follow.

1. What human interaction could be the cause of the destruction?

2. How does this particular problem impact the well-being of humans and the
environment in general?
3. Why is it important for NSTP students to study and learn about the laws and
directives governing environmental management and protection? Do these laws
help in solving the issue above? Justify your answer.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

Lesson 2

 Forest Protection,
Conservation and Development

Did you know that forests are called the lungs of the environment? They are a
factory of oxygen with various other very important natural resources. Can humans live
without their lungs? Similarly, the environment too would not survive without forests.
Forest conservation as the name suggests is the preservation and the protection
of forests. It also involves the reversal of deforestation and environmental pollution. The
preservation of all natural resources is absolutely essential for the balance of our
ecosystem.

Importance of Forests

We are basically dependent on forests for our survival. And so their conservation
is of essential importance. The most important function of forests is that, it produces
mass amounts of oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis. Oxygen is the main
respiratory gas for all animals, thus ensures our survival. And while photosynthesis,
trees also absorb carbon dioxide (one of the main pollutants of air pollution) from the
air. Hence forests also reduce air pollution. Forests also prevent soil erosion and
keep soil pollution in check. Deforestation, in fact, leads to soil erosion on a large
scale since the topsoil comes loose. Forests also play an important part in the water
cycle and control moisture levels of our ecosystem. And finally, forests are the natural
home and habitat for millions of species of animals, birds, and insects.

Ways to Conserve the Forest

1. Controlled Deforestation
While deforestation cannot be avoided completely, we must look to
control it. Young and immature trees should not be felled as far as possible. We
must look to avoid large-scale commercial deforestation as well. Adapting
practices such as clear-cutting or selective cutting will be beneficial in the long
run.

2. Protect against Forest Fires

Forest fires are the most common and deadly cause of loss of forests. They
can start due to natural causes or can be accidents caused by man or even
intentional in some cases. Once a fire spreads in a forest it is very difficult to
control. Precautions must be taken for such incidents.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 3. Afforestation
This is the process by which we plant more trees in the area. We try to
increase the forest cover by manual transplantation, or fresh plantation of trees.
It is an attempt to balance our ecosystem to reduce the effects of deforestation
and environmental pollutions of all types.

4. Better Farming Practices

Slash and burn farming, overgrazing by cattle, shifting agriculture pattern
are all farming practices that are harmful to the environment and particularly to
forests. We must keep all these practices under control.

Related Laws and Directives governing Forest Protection, Conservation and

Development

Presidential Decree No. 705, series of 1975. Revising Presidential Decree No.
389, otherwise known as the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines. This Act lays
down the basic principles of forest management and conservation, makes provision for
the administration of forestry (Chap. I), the survey and classification of lands for
purposes of forestry (Chap. II), and the use of forest resources (Chap. III). And, places
emphasis not only on the utilization of forest resources but more so on the protection,
rehabilitation and development of forest lands, in order to ensure the continuity of
their productive condition
Executive Order No. 277 amending section 68 of Presidential Decree No. 705
otherwise known as the "Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines". Section 68 of
Presidential Decree No. 705 has been amended for the purpose of penalizing
possession of timber or other forest products without a license required by existing
forest laws, authorizing the confiscation of illegally cut, gathered, removed and
possessed forest products, and granting rewards to informers of violations of forestry
laws, rules and regulations.

Executive Order No. 192 of 1987, which called for the reorganization of
Department of Environment, Energy and Natural Resources, renaming it as the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources and for other purposes. It also
created the Forest Management Bureau with the mandate of providing technical
assistance not only to the central office but also to the field offices for the effective
protection, development, and conservation of forestlands and watersheds. The
bureau also has the power to recommend interventions in meeting the goals of
sustainable forests with good governance (FMB 2016).

Republic Act No. 7586, series of 1992. An act providing for the establishment
and management of National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS), defining its
scope and coverage, and for other purposes. It shall encompass "outstandingly
remarkable areas and biologically important public lands that are habitats of rare and

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

endangered species of plants and animals, biographic zones and related ecosystems,
whether terrestrial, wetland, or marine". All such areas shall be designed as protected
areas). Section 3 specifies the categories of protected areas: strict nature reserves,
natural parks, natural monuments, wildlife sanctuary, protected landscapes and seas.

Executive Order No. 579, series of 2006. Encouraging the formulation and
implementation of Green Philippines program through the National Service Training
Program (NSTP). This requires all students enrolled in NSTP to get involved in the
Green Philippines programs and activities which include a) taking back forests and
replenishing fallen trees with new, protected forests; b) beautifying barangays and
cities; c) building more urban parks and recreation areas; d) purifying water; and e)
cleaning up industrial sites.

Republic Act No. 9486 or the Central Cebu Protected Landscape Act of 2007.
This Act provides for the protection, conservation, maintenance, rehabilitation and
sustainable development of the Central Cebu Protected Landscape (CCPL), especially
for its crucial role and significance as a watershed for water generation and supply
purposes, its associated biological diversity and its integrity as an ecosystem.

Executive Order No. 23, series of 2011. This establishes a moratorium on the
cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests and creates the
anti-Illegal logging task force. Thus, the DENR is prohibited from issuing logging
contracts/agreements in all natural and residual forests.

Executive Order No. 26, series of 2011. Declaring an interdepartmental

convergence initiative for a National Greening Program. It aims to: 1) contribute in
reducing poverty among upland and lowland poor households, indigenous peoples, and
in coastal and urban areas; 2) implement sustainable management of natural
resources through resource conservation, protection, and productivity enhancement;
3) provide food, goods and services such as timber, fiber, non-timber forest products,
aesthetic values, air enhancement values, water regulation values, and mitigate
climate change by expanding forest cover that serve as carbon sink; 4) promote public
awareness as well as instill social and environmental consciousness on the value of
forests and watersheds; 5) enhance the formation of positive values among the youth
and other partners through shared responsibilities in sustainable management of tree
plantations and forest resources, and 6) consolidate and harmonize all greening
efforts of the government, civil society, and the private sector.

Republic Act No. 10452, series of 2012. Mandating the DENR to plant trees in
3,000 hectares of public land in Cagayan de Oro to protect its people and its
environment from floods and landslides.

Executive Order No. 193, series of 2015. “Expanding the Coverage of the
National Greening Program (NGP)” and in order to harmonize all forest development
activities that will encourage and enhance the development of forest plantations,

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

including forest parks, with greater participation from the private sector, local
government units, and organized upland communities.

Republic Act No. 10690 or the Forestry Profession Law of 2015. Its objectives
are: a) The examination, registration and licensing of professional foresters; b) The
supervision, control and regulation of the practice of forestry in the Philippines; c)
The development and upgrading of the curriculum; d) The development of the
professional competence of foresters through mandatory Continuing Professional
Development (CPD).

The Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2016 or Republic Act 10771 aims to foster low-
carbon, resilient sustainable growth and decent job creation by providing incentives
to businesses that generate green jobs. It defines green jobs as those that help to
protect ecosystems and biodiversity; reduce energy, materials and water consumption
through high-efficiency strategies; decarbonize the economy; and minimize or
eliminate the generation of all forms of waste and pollution. It mandates the
Department of Labor and Employment to formulate a National Green Jobs Human
Resource Development Plan, which will enable and sustain the Philippines’ transition
into a green economy.

THINK!

With the growing number of people, could these laws help in the
protection and conservation of the protected areas like the forests?

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

  Learning Activity
Instructions: If given a chance to be the overall in-charge of the protected
areas of the country, what will be your three (3) priority programs for the
forest protection, conservation and development? Explain

1. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
________________________________________

2. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
________________________________________

3. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
________________________________________

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

Lesson 3

 Water Sanitation and Conservation

Water is the foundation of food and life, Next to air, water is our most precious
resource. We cannot live without water. Saving water helps to preserve our
environment. It reduces the energy required to process and deliver water, which
helps in reducing pollution and in conserving fuel resources.

As early as 1996, monitoring of the country’s rivers showed that only 51% of the
classified rivers still met the standards for their most beneficial use. The rest were
already polluted from domestic, industrial and agricultural sources. With this, 31% of
all illnesses in the country are attributed to polluted waters. Most studies point to the
fact that domestic wastewater is the principal cause of organic pollution (at 48%) of
our water bodies. Yet, only 3% of investments in water supply and sanitation were
going to sanitation and sewage treatment. A recent World Bank report pointed out
that Metro Manila was second to the lowest in sewer connections among major cities
in Asia and less than 7% compared to 20% for Katmandu, Nepal and 30% for Dhaka,
Bangladesh. Adding to this data, 97% of all the water on earth is salt water which is
not suitable for drinking. Only 3% of all the water is fresh water, and only 1% is
available for drinking water. The other 2% is locked in ice caps and glaciers.

With all the people on Earth relying on such a small percentage of all the water
on Earth, it only makes sense that we must preserve and conserve our water. We must
not pollute our water because it is the only water we will ever have. Some people do
not realize the importance of water, and they are continually polluting it.

Water sanitation and conservation needs to be a way of life, not just something
we think about once in a while. If we all do our part in conserving water, we can
make a huge difference for the environment. Water sanitation and conservation
means using our water wisely and caring for it properly.

Since each of us depends on water for life, it is our responsibility to learn more
about water conservation and how we can help keep our water pure and safe for
generations to come. Since we all enjoy the benefits of having pure, clean water, we
must help conserve water so that we may continue to enjoy these benefits.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 THINK!
What can I contribute to preserve and conserve the quality
of water for future generations?

Related Laws and Directives governing Water Sanitation and Conservation

The Water Resources Policy

This is embodied in Resolution No. 20 Series 1975 of the National Economic

Development Authority (NEDA) Board entitled Establishing Basic Policies Regarding
the Control, Conservation, Development and Utilization of the Water Resources of
the Country unanimously adopted on January 20, 1975. Although some specific
policies have been adopted from time to time, such as: the Water Crisis Act of 1995,
NEDA Board Resolutions, NWRB Board Resolutions, Executive Orders, and Medium
Term Development Plans.

While the ways of using water may change with time, there are some basic
principles in water management that are relatively permanent as some have been
decreed and others have been universally accepted. Among these are:

a. Ownership of Water. The 1986 Constitution provides in Article XII, Section 2 that
"All ... waters ... and other natural resources are owned by the State ... and shall
not be alienated. The exploration, development, and utilization of natural
resources shall be under the full control and supervision of the State ... In cases
of water rights for irrigation, water supply, fisheries or industrial uses other than
the development of water power, beneficial use may be the measure and limit of
the grant ... " Similar provisions were also provided in the 1974 and 1935
Constitutions. Such water policy is also provided in Chapter I and II of the 1976
Philippine Water Code (PD 1067)
b. Water Cycle. The hydrologic cycle illustrates how surface water, groundwater and
water in the atmosphere are interrelated. As long as the sun shines and provides
the needed energy, the hydrologic cycle continues as it is closely linked with the
land surface, vegetation, soil, underlying rocks, water bodies and the atmosphere.
c. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). IWRM is the globally
recognized process that will ensure the sustainable development and management
of a country's water resources. As defined by the Global Water Partnership, which
this study has arbitrarily adopted, "IWRM is a process which aims to ensure the
coordinated development and management of water, land and related resources
to optimize economic and social welfare without compromising the sustainability
of vital environmental systems."

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

d. Water as a Finite and Vulnerable Resource. "Fresh water is a finite and
vulnerable resource essential to sustain life, development and the environment.
Since water sustains life, effective development and management of water
resources demands a holistic approach, linking social and economic development
with protection of natural ecosystems.
e. Participatory Approach. "Water development and management should be based
on a participatory approach. Involving users, planners and policy-makers at all
levels. The participatory approach involves raising awareness of the importance of
water among policy-makers and the general public. It means that decisions are
taken at the lowest appropriate level, with full public consultation and
involvement of users in the planning and implementation of water projects.
f. Water as an Economic Good. "Water has an economic value in all its competing
uses and should be recognized as an economic good. Within this principle, it is
vital to recognize first the basic right of all human beings to have access to clean
water and sanitation at an affordable price. Past failure to recognize the economic
value of water has led to wasteful and environmentally damaging uses of the
resource. Managing water as an economic good is an important way of achieving
efficient and equitable use, and of encouraging conservation and protection of
water resources.''

The Clean Water Act

The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9275) aims to protect
the country’s water bodies from pollution from land-based sources (industries and
commercial establishments, agriculture and community/household activities). It
provides for a comprehensive and integrated strategy to prevent and minimize
pollution through a multi-sectoral and participatory approach involving all the
stakeholders. Specifically, this legislative intends to apply water quality management
in all water bodies in order to implement abatement and control of pollution from
land-based sources.

Highlights of the Clean Water Act

 Who should implement the Clean Water Act?

The DENR is the primary government agency responsible for the

implementation and enforcement of this Act, with the support of other
government organizations, local government units, non -government organizations
and the private sector. Towards this end, the DENR will review and set affluent
standards, review and enforce water quality guidelines, classify groundwater
sources and prepare a national groundwater vulnerability map, classify or
reclassify water bodies, establish internationally accepted procedures for sampling
and analysis, prepare an integrated water quality management framework and
subsequently prepare 10-year management plans for each water management
area.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 How will discharges of wastewater be controlled?

All owners or operators of facilities that discharge wastewater are required

to get a permit to discharge from the DENR or the Laguna Lake Development
Authority. Existing industries without any permit are given 12 months from the
effectivity of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) promulgated pursuant
to this Act to secure a permit to discharge.

 What are the fines and penalties imposed on polluters?

The following are among the fines and penalties for violators of this Act and
its IRR:
a. Upon the recommendation of the Pollution Adjudication Board (PAB), anyone
who commits prohibited acts such as discharging untreated wastewater into
any water body will be fined for every day of violation, the amount of not less
than Php 10,000 but not more than Php 200,000.
b. Failure to undertake clean-up operations willfully shall be punished by
imprisonment of not less than two years and not more than four years. This
also includes a fine of not less than Php 50,000 and not more than Php 100,000
per day of violation. Failure or refusal to clean up which results in serious
injury or loss of life or lead to irreversible water contamination of surface,
ground, coastal and marine water shall be punished with imprisonment of not
less than 6 years and 1 day and not more than 12 years and a fine of Php
500,000/day for each day the contamination or omission continues.
c. In cases of gross violation, a fine of not less than Php 500,000 but not more
than Php 3,000,000 will be imposed for each day of violation. Criminal charges
may also be filed.

 What are the prohibited acts under R.A. 9275?

Among others, the Act prohibits the following:
1. Discharging or depositing any water pollutant to the water body, or such which
will impede natural flow in the water body
2. Discharging, injecting or allowing to enter into the soil, anything that would
pollute groundwater
3. Operating facilities that discharge regulated water pollutants without the valid
required permits
4. Disposal of potentially infectious medical waste into sea by vessels
5. Unauthorized transport or dumping into waters of sewage sludge or solid waste.
6. Transport, dumping or discharge of prohibited chemicals, substances or
pollutants listed under Toxic Chemicals, Hazardous and Nuclear
7. Wastes Control Act (Republic.Act No. 6969)
8. Discharging regulated water pollutants without the valid required discharge
permit pursuant to this Act
9. Noncompliance of the LGU with the Water Quality Framework and Management
Area Action Plan
10. Refusal to allow entry, inspection and monitoring as well as access to reports
and records by the DENR in accordance with this Act

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 11. Refusal or failure to submit reports and/or designate pollution control officers
whenever required by the DENR in accordance with this Act
12. Directly using booster pumps in the distribution system or tampering with the
water supply in such a way to alter or impair the water quality
13. Operate facilities that discharge or allow to seep, willfully or through grave
negligence, prohibited chemicals, substances, or pollutants listed under R.A.
No. 6969, into water bodies.

 Learning Activity
Instruction: Prepare two slogans about the clean water act campaign of the
government.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

Lesson 4

 Role of the Youth in Environmental

Protection and Management

In order to actively participate in environmental protection and management,

our NSTP students should be equipped with some knowledge of current environmental
issues particularly those affecting the locality where they have to serve. Such
knowledge will enable them to appreciate and develop the proper attitudes and
values towards environmental protection and management.

The Role of the Youth in Environmental Protection and Management

The participation of NSTP students in environmental management programs and

projects is one of the most effective way by which students can contribute to the
implementation of the general welfare and the quality of life in the barangays. In this
regard, students enrolled in NSTP could actively participate not only in wide scale
environmental management programs but they could also plan their own micro level
(barangays level or school level) projects and activities such as the following:
a. Adopt a barangay/ Adopt a family/ Adopt a student
b. Cleanliness Drive
c. Beautification Drive
d. Coastal Areas clean-up
e. Waste Material Management/Recycling
f. Garbage Composting
g. Anti-Smoke Belching Campaign
h. Information dissemination or Environmental Concern
i. Herbal or Ornamental Gardening
j. Backyard planting and parenting
k. Others such as distribution and planting of “luya sa bawat pamilya” and
“malunggay sa bawat bahay”.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 Learning Activity

Instructions: To protect your community from the impact of stressful effects of human
activities to the environment, illustrate creatively action points that you can do to
ensure safe, clean and friendly environment.

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 MODULE SUMMARY

You have learned module IV with its four (4) lessons and it encompassed the
general concepts of Environmental Protection.

.In Lesson 1, you have learned the definition of environmental protection and
management along with related principles, laws and directives; Lesson 2 talked about
forest protection, conservation and development; Lesson 3 dealt with water
sanitation and conservation and finally Lesson 4 introduced the role of the youth in
environmental protection and management.

Congratulations! You have just studied Module IV. now you are ready to
evaluate how much you have benefited from your reading by answering the
summative test. Good Luck!!!

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 SUMMATIVE TEST

Instructions: Read each statement carefully. Encircle the letter that corresponds to
your answer.

1. Which signifies deterrence of unwanted changes to environmental equilibrium?

a. environmental awareness c. environmental protection
b. environmental management d. environmental conservation
2. How can people adversely affect the environment? It is by _________.
a. building homes and plowing fields c. draining swamps
b. polluting the air, land, and water d. using natural resources

3. Many farm and forestlands are converted into housing areas. If more lands are
used for residential purposes, how would this affect the environment?
a. reduced habitat of wild plants and animals
b. decreased garbage problems
c. improved health and sanitation
d. more production of food

4. If you were the manager of the factory shown below, what will you do if a team of
environmentalists would tell you that your factory contributes to environmental
pollution?

a. I won’t mind them. As a capitalist, income matters most.

b. I will thank them for showing their concern to the environment. I will use
eco-friendly chemicals then.
c. I will give them money for their environmental project.
d. I will call on the guards to send them away.

5. Phasing out the use of CFC’s and reducing smog is covered under which of the
following?
a. Clean Water Act c. Safe Drinking Water Act
b. Clean Air Act d. Fugitive Emissions Act

6. Which of these activities do not alter the ecosystem?

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

 a. improper waste disposal
b. global economic systems
c. inter-specific relationship
d. suspended particulates from vehicular and stationary sources
7. Which is not true about inter-specific relationship?
a. Plants provide oxygen to animals for aerobic respiration
b. The quality of the seed determines the type of vegetation that exists
c. Vegetation contributes to the minerals of the soil when they die
d. The living component of the ecosystem affects and is affected by the abiotic
components
8. Which of the following statements is MOST accurate?
a. Ozone near the surface of the earth protects us from ultraviolet radiation.
b. Ozone in the stratosphere protects us from harmful radiation from the sun.
c. Ozone is added to the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels.
d. Exposure to ozone increases one’s risk of skin cancer.
9. Which of these laws is primarily focused on air pollution prevention rather than
control and provides comprehensive quality management on air pollution?
a. RA 9003 b. RA 9275 c. RA 9512 d. RA 8749

10. Which of the following agencies is responsible for the preparation of National Air
Quality Status Report which shall be used as a basis in crafting the Integrated Air
Quality Improvement Framework?
a. DOST B. DOTC C. DENR D. DPWH

11. Study the table below.

Biodegradable Nonbiodegradable
Wood Mineral water bottles
Dried leaves Peelings
Paper Wine bottles
Tin cans Plastic wrappers
Which of the above objects are NOT in their proper column?
a. wood and paper c. plastic wrappers and wine bottles
b. tin cans and peelings d. dried leaves and mineral bottles

12. What is the BEST way to lessen house garbage?

a. Burn the garbage at once. c. Segregate garbage and recycle.
b. Cover the garbage container when filled d. Throw garbage in the river

13. Which of the following is not a feature of sustainable agriculture?

a. Extensive use of fertilizers and pesticides
b. Maintaining the natural environment
c. Planting multiple crops together
d. Harvesting crops at different times

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

14. Which is not a special waste?
a. tires b. broken appliances c. pesticides d. spray canisters

15. Which is not a characteristic of hazardous waste?

a. ignitable b. recyclable c. corrosive d. reactive
References:

Andrews, Gabriella. (2018). Resolving the Water Pollution Crisis in the Philippines: the
Implications of Water Pollution on Public Health and the Economy

Domingo, Sonny N. & Manejar, Arvie Joy A. (2018). Forest Protection in the
Philippines

Labuguen, Florida C.; Vidal, Carmelo John E.; Ramos, Alexander I. (2018).
Understanding the National Service Training Program: Mutya Publishing House.

Lee, Sergio J. (2013). National Service Training Program. A Source Book (3rd Edition).
C&E Publishing, Inc.

The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines and Department of

Science and Technology. (2004). Proposed Water Resources Policy of the Philippines
Encyclopedia of Ecology, 2008

http://www.unenvironment.org/explore-topics/sustainable-development-goals/why-
do-sustainable-development-goals-matter/goal-6

http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2011/02/01/executive-order-no-23-s-2011/

http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2011/02/24/executive-order-no-26-s-2011/

http://pidswebs.pids.gov.ph/CDN/PUBLICATIONS/pidsdps1853.pdf

http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1975/05/19/presidential-decree-no-705- s-1975/

http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1992/06/01/republic-act-no-7586/

http://www.neda.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/CHAPTER-10.pdf

http://fukuoka.unhabitat.org/kcap/activities/egm/2009/pdf/rollo_en.pdf

http://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetarysciences/ environmental-
protection

The 1986 Philippine Constitution

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV

The 1987 Philippine Constitution
Republic Act No. 6969, s. 1990
Republic Act No. 7586, s. 1992
Republic Act No. 8749, s. 1999
Republic Act No. 9003, s. 2000
Republic Act No. 9275, s. 2004
Republic Act No. 9486, s. 2007
Republic Act No. 9512, s. 2008
Republic Act No. 9729, s. 2009
Republic Act No. 10452, s. 2012
Republic Act No. 10690, s. 2015
Republic Act No. 10771, s. 2016
Executive Order No. 277
Executive Order No. 192, s. 1987
Executive Order No. 23, s. 2011
Executive Order No. 26, s. 2011
Executive Order No. 193, s. 2015
Executive Order No. 579, s. 2006
CHED Memorandum Order No. 33, series of 2009
Resolution No. 20 Series 1975 of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)
Board
Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022
Presidential Decree No. 705, series of 1975
Philippine Water Code of 1976

NSTP1- Environmental Protection Module IV