Manila LGU conducts WACS to boost waste segregation, environmental protection programs


The Manila City government announced on Sunday, April 30, the conclusion of its Waste Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS) aimed at determining the waste management and disposal performance of the local government unit (LGU).

"The objective of this activity is to determine the classification, characteristics, and volume of wastes being generated by residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial sectors in the Nation's Capital," the Public Information Office (PIO) explained.

The eight-day activity held at ASAC Covered Court in Sta. Mesa was made possible through the efforts of the Department of Public Services-Manila who did the overall coordination, collection, and sorting of wastes, the Public Recreations Bureau, and Brgy 627 for providing the amenities during the program.

The study was conducted by the Manila LGU, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority - Solid Waste Management Office (MMDA -SWMO), and Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST, Inc.)

According to the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), the WACS' primary goal is to provide baseline data for LGU monitoring and performance evaluation of solid waste management plans and activities.

Its data can be utilized to identify relevant programs and strategies for the LGUs' specific needs.

Earlier, the C40 World Mayors Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, recognized the city's efforts in promoting climate change awareness and sustainability.

Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan received the recognition from the body.

Under her leadership, urban greening programs such as rehabilitation of parks and green spaces and Nilad Planting, promotion of electric vehicles, recycling programs, and streets, coastal, and waterways cleanups became the city government's priority.

It also created a 10-year local climate change action plan that includes initiatives on energy, transportation and traffic management, waste management, environment, industrial and commercial establishments, and science and technology.