Feature: Proper solid waste disposal an engine for earth conservation

Conserving and preserving the earth is everyone's best interest

This is the heart of proper solid waste disposal. Solid wastes can be an environmental hazard when disposed improperly. These wastes can be very harmful to the atmosphere increasing pollution, speeding-up global warming, clogging-up canals and waterways causing environmental disasters such as flooding.

In line with this, the Department of Trade and Industry ENERCON Management Team issued some basic pointers toward proper waste disposal.

The first step is to segregate waste at source. Wastes can be broadly classified into three types: biodegradables, non-biodegradables that can be recycled or reused, and non-biodegradables that cannot be sold which become residual waste.

For biodegradables, compost these waste and use the compost as soil conditioner for plants and garden. If there is space within your home, school or office, establish a vegetable garden or an herbal garden and use the compost for these gardens. Saving the eggshells can also be helpful in organic farming.

Recycle paper, cartons, bottles, plastic containers, aluminum foils and metals or sell them to junk dealers.

In addition, coordinate with your local government or with some environmental non-government organizations for the processing and safe disposal of the residual waste.

Avoid throwing candy wrappers and other small waste on the streets. Keep them in your pocket or bag instead. Do not also throw anything into the water when riding a boat or any water vehicle even of the material is biodegradable.

Also reduce the use of plastic and paper bags by using reusable totes. If you use plastic grocery bags, reuse them for doggie poop bags or for small trashcan liners. When going to the market, use a'bayong' or similar reusable bags. Moreover, make use of reusable containers instead of plastic or paper bags when bringing lunch at work.

Waste can also be lessened by minimizing the use of disposable cutleries and plates during parties. Rags can also be made out of old towels and t-shirts.

Sharing a magazine subscription with a friend will not only reduce your subscription cost but it would also cut down the amount of trees used for the magazine paper. Another alternative is to read magazine subscriptions and newspaper online.

It would likewise be smarter to think before printing emails and attachments. Print only necessary documents. Reuse scrap paper in printing and use clean paper only for external communications.

Online distribution and posting of company information and materials is also helpful in minimizing waste.