DENR pushes waste segregation, better landfill design across Philippines

MANILA — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has urged local government units nationwide to bolster their waste management systems by implementing stricter segregation practices and improving landfill design standards.

In remarks this week, the DENR pointed to Bayawan City in Negros Oriental as a benchmark municipality for consistent and effective waste management operations. The city's approach aligns with broader government objectives to address the country's mounting solid waste challenges through better operational practices at the local level.

Proper waste segregation at source, combined with engineered landfill facilities that meet environmental standards, forms the foundation of sustainable waste management, according to DENR officials. The agency emphasized that local government units must prioritize these dual measures to reduce environmental contamination and improve public health outcomes in their communities.

The push for enhanced waste management comes as municipalities across the Philippines continue to grapple with rising waste volumes and limited disposal capacity. The DENR's recommendations signal the administration's commitment to establishing waste management systems that meet both environmental protection and sustainability goals.