The accumulating waste is not just unsightly; it is also causing distress to Mother Earth.

Despite efforts to teach proper

trash disposal, many people still choose convenience over responsibility. The consequences of a polluted environment are
severe, leading to various diseases and, tragically, even death. Waste management has become a significant challenge
for our nation. So, what steps can we take to address this issue?

Reducing waste is crucial in waste minimization efforts. By avoiding unnecessary resource consumption, we can reduce
the amount of waste produced. Waste reduction aims to prevent waste generation in the first place. Reusing materials in
their original form is a cost-effective way to minimize waste. Reusing items prevents them from ending up in landfills and
saves the energy and resources required to produce new products. Composting is a natural process that breaks down
plant and organic waste to produce nutrient-rich material. By composting yard and kitchen waste like leaves, grass
clippings, and fruit scraps, we can create soil-enhancing compost for gardens. Recycling is an effective waste
management strategy that helps reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and save energy. Recycling various
materials such as newspapers, plastics, glass, and aluminum not only benefits the environment but also saves money.
Proper waste disposal practices, including recycling, should be encouraged and implemented across all levels of society.

In our research, we emphasized the importance of waste segregation, sorting materials from biodegradable to
non-biodegradable categories. Proper waste segregation is essential to prevent mixing in landfills, which can contaminate
groundwater and release harmful methane gas, contributing to climate change and droughts. Segregation also facilitates
recycling efforts, ensuring valuable resources are not wasted. Toxic waste seepage into the ground can contaminate water
sources and cause diseases, while non-toxic waste still contributes to pollution and global warming. To prevent these
severe consequences of improper waste disposal, effective waste segregation is crucial for a cleaner and healthier
environment.

The City of Iloilo Ordinance No.12 in 2008, known as the "Iloilo City Ecological Solid Waste Management Ordinance of
2008," aligning with Republic Act 9003. This ordinance aims to raise public awareness about environmental protection and
preservation, placing responsibility on barangays for waste collection, segregation, and recycling of various waste types.

Barangay Fatima has embraced this ordinance, conducting community service to segregate landfill waste and promote
proper waste disposal practices. By classifying waste from biodegradable to non-biodegradable, they are taking practical
steps towards a cleaner environment and community involvement in waste management.

Implementing waste segregation methods such as sorting wet and dry waste, creating mini recycling centers, and
composting organic materials can significantly contribute to waste reduction and recycling initiatives. By promoting
recycling practices and reusing materials, individuals can play a role in making our streets cleaner, reducing raw material
consumption, and creating a more sustainable living environment for our country and the planet.

Waste management is indeed a critical issue, and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce its impact on our
environment. Here are 10 essential steps that can help address waste management challenges:

-Identify the Waste Your Facility Creates: Begin by understanding the types of waste your facility generates. This
step allows you to tailor waste management strategies effectively.
-Prevention: The most environmentally friendly approach is to prevent waste generation altogether. Encourage
practices that minimize waste production, such as using durable products and avoiding single-use items.
-Reuse: Reusing materials in their original form is a powerful way to minimize waste. Extend the lifespan of items
by repairing, repurposing, or sharing them. This not only reduces waste but also conserves resources.
-Recycle: Recycling is a well-known waste management strategy. Separate recyclable materials (such as paper,
plastics, glass, and aluminum) from non-recyclables. Recycling conserves resources and reduces pollution.
-Composting: Convert organic waste (like kitchen scraps and yard clippings) into nutrient-rich compost. Composting
enriches soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
-Proper Disposal: Dispose of waste responsibly. Follow local regulations and guidelines for safe disposal. Toxic
waste should never end up in landfills or water sources.
-Waste Segregation: Sort waste into categories (biodegradable vs. non-biodegradable). Proper segregation
prevents contamination and facilitates recycling efforts.
-Educate and Involve: Raise awareness about waste management among employees, community members, and
students. Encourage responsible waste handling practices.
-Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Hold manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products.
EPR encourages product design that considers recyclability and environmental impact.
-Collaborate: Work together with local governments, NGOs, and waste management companies. Collective efforts
can create a more sustainable waste management system.

Remember, every small action counts. By implementing these steps, we contribute to a healthier planet and
safeguard the well-being of future generations.