According to statistics from the official website of the Philippine Senate, the Philippines produces over 40,000 tons of waste on a daily basis. The National Capital Region accounts for almost ¼ of this number (over 9,000 tons), while Region 4a (where Nuvali is located) generates about 4.4 tons of waste per day.
With numbers that seem so bleak — and a problem that seems so insurmountable — what can the average citizen do to even make a difference in a predicament that only increases in severity every single day?
You’d be surprised: A bit of effort goes a long way, especially when it comes to waste management.
More than half (57%) of the waste we generate actually comes from residential areas. Imagine the positive impact of waste management initiatives in our individual homes. With each family and household contributing to waste management initiatives, we will certainly see a marked improvement in our numbers in record time.
Even more surprising is how little we actually need to do or change in our routines. Contrary to what some may believe, you don’t have to spend so much to develop effective waste management systems. In fact, some of the following tips are actually cost-efficient alternatives to our normal everyday activities and purchasing decisions.
Waste Management Tips For The Home
Here are a few simple ways we can help reduce the amount of waste we produce.
Recycle. Who hasn’t heard this word get mentioned in pretty much every waste management campaign, ever? Not only does it reduce the amount of waste you produce, it will also help you save money, energy, and valuable natural resources. In fact, a law exists to support this initiative in the country. Created in order to deal with the country’s ever-growing waste production problem, Republic Act 9003, otherwise known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, was a historical and environmental milestone in the Philippines.
Segregate your waste. Separating biodegradables from non-biodegradables makes the process of recycling easier and more efficient. Improper garbage disposal results in additional expenses (as in order to be recycled, waste needs to be categorized accordingly) and ultimately wastes time.
Go for non-plastic disposables. Though they may sometimes be slightly pricier than the typical plastic cups, bags, and cutlery that we are fond of using, the benefits of switching to non-plastic disposables whenever possible are invaluable. Modern-day technology has allowed for some interesting innovations, such as “green” plates (disposable plates manufactured from leaves) and even edible spoons and forks.
Reuse containers. More often than not, the key to effective waste management lies in finding new purpose for things that you would throw away on impulse. Filipinos are well-known for finding ways to repurpose tin cans, plastic containers, and boxes. Let your creativity shine through, and use it to help solve the growing waste problem in the country.
Repair what you can, instead of throwing away broken appliances/furniture. Even when you can afford to buy a replacement for busted furniture or broken appliances, you should first see if they’re still capable of being repaired. Naturally, you shouldn’t force yourself to use things that are beyond repair; however, it wouldn’t hurt to at least see if there’s still hope for your damaged appliance or furniture before you decide to chuck them into the garbage bin and just buy replacements.
Reduce paper waste (mail, etc.) by favoring electronic alternatives. More and more service providers (such as telecommunications companies and banks) are allowing their consumers to receive their monthly billing statements via email. This serves the dual purpose of helping to save the environment and making it easier to organize and file documents digitally.
Existing Waste Reduction Initiatives In Nuvali
Sustainability has always been a priority at Nuvali, and that includes proper waste management.
In addition to taking steps towards greener alternatives such as harnessing solar, tree planting, and using environment-friendly means and materials in building, the commercial and residential complex also features the Evoliving Center, a string of corporate structures that put sustainable practices, recycling initiatives, and waste management programs front and center.
Going around Nuvali is akin to exploring an urban paradise — wouldn’t it be nice, though, if we could enjoy the same fresh air and clean environment in other major areas in the Philippines as well? The truth of the matter is that it’s possible, so long as we establish stronger sustainability programs and adhere to them strictly.
Remember: We have only one planet, and it’s our duty to take care of it for ourselves, our loved ones, and for generations to come.
If you’d like to know more about Nuvali and our pro-environment initiatives, you may contact us for more information.