REGULATING PLASTIC AND STYROFOAM USE IN QUEZON CITY

Recently, the 18th City Council has passed two ordinances about prohibiting and regulating “Plastic” use in Quezon City. Hon. Jesus Manuel C. Suntay and Hon. Gian Carlo G. Sotto sponsored one of the measures to prohibit plastic and styrofoam use in Quezon City Hall Complex, Novaliches District Center, Quezon City General Hospital, and Novaliches District Hospital for efficient garbage disposal and to reduce risk to health and well-being of the constituents of Quezon City.

The approval of the ordinance has undergone series of public hearings prior to its approval on the Plenary. Then came its second reading and was approved last 13th of February 2012. On the third and final reading last 20th of February 2012, it was formally approved and its provisions are now in effect. The recently approved ordinance is expected to take its toll now that the Environmental Protection and Waste Management Department is taking its action.

On the other hand, Hon. Dorothy A. Delarmente has sponsored another ordinance to regulate the use of plastic bags and establish an environmental fee for its use, provide mechanism for its recovery and recycle and to provide penalties for the violators. It had undergone series of public hearings and was approved on second reading in Regular Plenary Session last 20th of February 2012. This coming 27th of February 2012, we are expecting for its approval and will take effect as well as the other ordinance.

These ordinances that our 18th City Council has enacted will definitely support the City’s stand on environmental protection and awareness. It will have a great impact on the lives of the constituents of Quezon City. Health and wellness will improve upon the implementation of these ordinances. A “Greener” Quezon City will be more suitable for every constituent to live in. Lifestyle will change but for the betterment of the people of Quezon City.