MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is pushing for stricter measures in the collection and management of solid waste from quarantine and health-care facilities nationwide, amid the continuous spread of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
In a letter to Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu endorsed the adoption of a color-coding scheme to segregate trash, as well as the implementation of disinfecting procedures for garbage trucks.
DENR recommended that green garbage bags be used for biodegradable wastes; black for nonbiodegradable or residual waste and yellow for medical and other health-care waste.
Medical wastes, including used personal protective equipment, should be placed in proper storage areas designated for that purpose prior to collection from the quarantine or health-care facilities.
—Jhesset O. Enano