SLSU- Bontoc Faculty Researcher Shares Trash Trap Device Initiative

SLSU-Bontoc Faculty Researcher Gladys Ludevese-Pascual shared the 2022 results of a pilot test conducted by BS Marine Biology students on the feasibility of a trash trap device in capturing solid wastes in select collection points in Brgy. San Ramon, Bontoc, Southern Leyte. This was during a 2-day Province-lead campaign on the Localization of the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction, and Management of Marine Litters (NPOA-ML) participated by officials from various municipalities of Southern Leyte, organized at the Mangrove Resources and Environment Learning Center (MRELC) at Brgy. San Roque, Macrohon, Southern Leyte on September 6-7, 2023.

According to Ms. Pascual, on a monthly average, from October to December 2022, approximately 70 % (dry weight) of the trash that got trapped in the device was purely non-biodegradable, consisting mainly of household plastic wastes such as single-use plastic packaging, broken glasses, soiled diaper, among others. These wastes, usually ending up in the marine environment, tremendously impact coastal ecosystems.

SLSU-Bontoc and LGU-Bontoc are currently discussing the potential inclusion of trash trap devices as a strategy to improve solid waste management within the municipality.

During the campaign, discussion on how to monitor ambient water quality and establish wastewater and sewerage systems were tackled by representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) RO VIII. Mr. Ruel Natividad of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Office (PENRMO) was also present to discuss steps on quality monitoring with emphasis on physic-chemical parameters.

The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to Resource Speakers and an expression of commitment by concerned officials from various municipalities in Southern Leyte towards the integration of NPOA-ML.

Together, we can make a difference!