Search on for model b’gays on eco-waste mg’t

The search is on for the model barangays on proper waste management.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Elisea Gozun said the "Nationwide Search for Model Barangays on Eco-Waste Management" is not a contest but a rating system that reflects the ability and creativity of a barangay in complying with Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Points are computed annually based on the following criteria: social participation or ordinances; education and information campaign; materials recovery facility (MRF) design, function and aesthetics; operation of and sustaining segregation, collection and composting schemes; and livelihood component for additional points.

The methodology is similar to the star-rating system of hotels and restaurants or the ISO for business establishments.

Barangays that are rated as five-star or gold will receive P1 million each; four-star or silver barangays, P500,000 each; three-star or bronze barangays, P250,000 each; two-star or molave barangays, P100,000; and one-star or paper barangays, P50,000 each.

Gozun said a barangay automatically qualifies if it has taken initiatives to manage solid waste through mandatory segregation at source.

Citations will also be given to towns or cities having the most number of MRFs for residuals, and provinces that have converted their dumpsites in "eco-parks," Gozun said.

The search is a follow-up to the First National Conference on Ecological Solid Waste Management held last April 14-15.