ZERO WASTE MONTH
23rd Signing Anniversary of Republic Act No. 9003
Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000

Theme: Sustainable Waste Management for Livable Communities: Zero Waste to Philippine Waters by 2040

MARIA ANTONIA YULO-LOYZAGA
Secretary
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
January 30, 2024

To the Hon. Sen. Loren Legarda, Hon. Sen. Cynthia Villar, officials from the Local Government Units, partners in the organization and the private sector, colleagues in government, and my family in the DENR-EMB, ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, fellow advocates for environmental sustainability,

I am deeply honored to stand before you today to commemorate the 3rd Signing Anniversary of the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. As we gather here under the theme “Sustainable Waste Management in Livable Communities,” it is a momentous occasion to reflect on our journey towards creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for current and future generations.

Two decades ago, our leaders had to address the growing concerns regarding the improper disposal of waste, recognizing the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustainable waste management system. The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 was born out of a collective determination to safeguard our environment and promote a healthier, more sustainable Philippines.

Today, as we celebrate the progress we have made, it is crucial to acknowledge the collective efforts that have brought us to this point. Our success in sustainable waste management is a testament to the commitment of communities, local government units, businesses, and civil society organizations working hand in hand to safeguard our environment.

Sustainable waste management is not merely a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative. It is about recognizing our responsibility to Mother Earth and understanding that our actions today shape the world we leave behind for future generations. We must strive to create a legacy of environmental stewardship, where our communities thrive in harmony with nature.

One of the cornerstones of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act is the principle of waste reduction at the source. As responsible citizens, we must embrace the ethos of “reduce, reuse, and recycle” in our daily lives. By minimizing our waste and maximizing the use of recyclable materials, we contribute significantly to the reduction of environmental degradation and the conservation of valuable resources.

Local government units play a pivotal role in the success of sustainable waste management initiatives. I commend the dedication of our local leaders who have implemented innovative programs, such as waste segregation, composting, and recycling projects. These initiatives not only reduce the burden on landfills but also create economic opportunities and empower communities to actively participate in environmental conservation.

However, our journey is far from over. As we move forward, we must remain vigilant and adaptable to emerging challenges. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing consumption patterns necessitate continuous refinement of our waste management strategies. Collaboration among stakeholders is key to developing resilient and sustainable solutions that can withstand the test of time.

In conclusion, let us use this anniversary as a moment of reflection and inspiration. We have come a long way, but there is still much work to be done. Together, let us renew our commitment to building livable communities through sustainable waste management. As stewards of this beautiful archipelago, let us ensure that our actions today create a legacy of environmental sustainability for the generations to come.

Thank you, and may we continue our journey towards a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Philippines.