A broad coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), youth groups, environmental advocates, and faith-based institutions has officially launched the Zero Waste Alliance-Negros Occidental to oppose waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration and promote sustainable waste solutions in the city.
The alliance is calling for a decisive shift away from thermal-based WTE technologies, asserting that such processes pose "serious risks to public health, the environment, and effective solid waste management," according to a statement released by the group.
The manifesto urges the Mayor’s Office to prioritize accountability and inclusive governance to ensure the legitimacy of the city’s environmental policies.
“We are coming together because Bacolod stands at a critical turning point,” said Catherine Trespuentes, SK Felisa Chairperson and alliance member.
“We are proposing a sustainable alternative that highlights community-based solutions rather than incineration.”
Citing Republic Act 9003 (the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act), the alliance argued that Bacolod already possesses the legal framework necessary for sustainable waste management. The group stressed that what is missing is "stronger political will" for implementation.
The coalition is advocating for decentralized solutions, such as: mandatory segregation at the source, widespread composting and recycling programs and rhe establishment of functional Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in every barangay. “A zero-waste future is not only possible; it is necessary,” member Katherine M. Dela Cruz said, emphasizing the need to protect waste workers and ensure their inclusion in a "just and sustainable" system.
The alliance continues to demand genuine public engagement and transparency in all major environmental decisions affecting the city’s future.*
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