ILOILO City – The Environmental Management Bureau in Western Visayas (EMB 6) is out to reduce the volume of electronic waste through a program geared towards proper disposal.
EMB, under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, on Monday, Oct. 24, launched its e-Waste Collection and Disposal Program to cut down the amount of discarded electrical and electronic products which have met the end of their usefulness.
“They contain hazardous materials such as lead, cadmium and mercury that can damage the environment if not disposed of properly,” said EMB Clearance and Permitting Division chief Engr. Anne Marie Delariarte in an interview on Tuesday.
More or less 20 to 30 kilograms of waste were generated during the launching held at the Robinsons Place Iloilo to mark the International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week being celebrated from Oct. 24 to 28.
Disposed of were old laptops, computer keyboards, computer screens, and chargers, among others.
She said all stores of the Robinsons Mall in Western Visayas would have a dedicated garbage bin where the public can drop their old, damaged, and unused electronic waste until Oct. 28.
Delariarte said they hoped to raise public awareness through the program as they also target to partner with barangays to intensify the proper e-waste disposal.
“For now we are open to whoever is willing since they already know the risk if they are left unattended,” she added.
After the weeklong event, the EMB will be putting a bin at their office in Parola so the public can just drop by and dispose of their e-waste.
EMB has an accredited partner that handles their proper disposal, she said. Many of the products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. (PNA)/PN
