Our Contribution to Addressing Climate Change

A cleaner and greener Philippines through sustainable waste management.

*In this article: Nationally Determined Contributions or NDCs are commitments made by countries under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and take action to combat climate change. Each country sets its own targets based on its national circumstances, capabilities, and levels of development. NDCs reflect each country's ambitions and serve as a basis for international climate action and cooperation.

One unifying challenge in our country’s goals for the environment is reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

It might not seem obvious at first, but how we handle our trash can seriously impact our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). 

To combat climate change and meet our country's NDCs, effective waste management has emerged as a crucial element in reducing GHG emissions. The growing recognition of the environmental impact of waste practices underscores the need for innovative strategies that address not only the disposal of waste but also its role in the broader climate agenda. By prioritizing sustainable waste management, we can make significant strides towards our emissions targets and foster a healthier environment for future generations. Let's dive into why this matters and how we can all make a difference!

The work that DTBC does actually aligns with two key strategies of our country’s NDCs:

• Improving the recovery of solid waste materials

• Decreasing methane emissions through organic waste composting

Here are five specific ways in which these are achieved:

1. Reduction in Landfill Emissions

When solid waste materials are recovered and recycled, less waste ends up in landfills. Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent GHG, generated during the decomposition of organic materials. By diverting waste from landfills, the overall methane emissions are reduced.

2. Conserving Resources

Recovering materials allows for the reuse of resources, which means that fewer new materials need to be extracted and processed. The extraction and processing of raw materials often involve significant energy use and emissions.  

3. Aerobic decomposition

Composting involves aerobic (oxygen-rich) decomposition, which minimizes anaerobic conditions where methane is produced. When organic waste is landfilled, it often decomposes anaerobically, releasing methane as a byproduct. By composting, the organic materials break down using oxygen, which produces carbon dioxide instead of methane.

4. Enhanced soil health

The compost produced can improve soil health and fertility, which can lead to increased carbon sequestration in soils. Healthier soils can contribute to capturing more carbon, further helping to mitigate climate change

5. Encouraging Sustainable Practices

Improved recovery practices often lead to greater awareness and implementation of sustainability measures. This cultural shift can encourage reduced consumption and a move towards a circular economy, where products are designed for reuse and longevity, further minimizing emissions over time.

Businesses and institutions play a crucial role in addressing climate change. By collaborating with sustainable service providers like DTBC, organizations can ensure they minimize their environmental impact and actively contribute to creating a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for years to come.