As Filipinos troop to cemeteries and beaches for the long weekend observance of the feast of the dead, Environment Secretary Ramon Paje appealed to the public to “also think of the living when we commemorate our dead.”
“However we choose to celebrate the long weekend, let us also be mindful of the impact of our activities on our environment,” he said.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) anticipates that more trash would be generated during the long holiday weekend.
According to the DENR, the entire country generates 30,000 tons of trash everyday, with 8,000 tons produced by Metro Manila alone.
“Perhaps it is no longer necessary to enumerate the adverse impact of garbage not only on our health but also on the environment. The trashslides that occurred in Baguio City and in Payatas should serve as a reminder to all us on why we should all actively participate in the proper management of our garbage,” Paje said.
The secretary urged cemetery administrators and local government officials to place waste bins in cemeteries to encourage the public to dispose of and segregate their garbage properly.
He gave the following pointers to ensure a clean and green “undas”:
•Practice the three Rs in solid waste management: reuse, reduce and recycle by using reusable utensils, food containers and bags.
•Bring only a sufficient amount of food. Take home any leftovers and feed to your pets or use as compost.
•Place candles in reusable glass containers. Keep watch over lighted candles to avoid accidental fires. Collect melted candle wax to make new candles or sell to traders.
•Use fresh flowers without plastic wrapping, or potted plants to help purify the air.
•Throw out stagnant water that could be a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects.
For those driving to out-of-town destinations, Paje said they can reduce their carbon footprint by car pooling or using public transport.
Car owners should also ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained.