Waste Management System

Since 2008, the Colegio de San Juan de Letran implemented the Solid Waste Management System. It anchors on the basic environmental laws such as Ecological Waste Management (RA 9003), (RA 6969), Clean Air Act (RA) and Clean Water Act (RA) principles of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 also known as Republic Act 9003.

As of the moment the FMGSD starting various environmental projects and activities, with several more in the pipeline to be initiated or implemented in collaboration with other departments and offices in the coming months. Among these initiatives is our composting program, which has undergone significant enhancements. Initially limited to garden waste such as leaves, grass clippings, and small branches, we have expanded our scope to include food waste and other biodegradables.

Our composting efforts now encompass both open-air composting, employing the hot composting method, and worm farm composting (started through the NSTP project). Additionally, we are exploring into EMO (effective micro-organism) composting and combination composting techniques.

This composting project not only serves as a proactive measure for an efficient waste management system within the Colegio but also contributes to the reduction of the institution's carbon footprint, thereby aiding in mitigating overall pollution on our planet.

In line with these objectives, our department is actively working towards improving waste segregation. As a starting point, we are focusing on segregating food waste at its source, and we have implemented thorough waste segregation procedures in our Material Recovery Facility (MRF). This commitment reflects our dedication to sustainable practices and the well-being of our environment, aligning with the Colegio's broader mission to be an environmentally responsible institution.

Our segregation process includes plastic spoon and fork; plastic, aluminum and glass bottles; used papers and cartons; paper food containers and cups; and food waste. These materials will be recycled, reused, composted, or sold to junk shops. Unmentioned items are categorized as residual waste, which is collected by our paid private garbage hauler.