Environment cmte to discuss ordinance on plastic take back scheme

COUNCILOR Roger Abaday will convene his environment committee on Wednesday, June 4, at 2:00’o’clock in the afternoon to deliberate on his proposed measure of institutionalizing an e-commerce plastic take back scheme.

It may be recalled that, during the 119th regular session of the 20th City Council, Abaday reported the staggering volume of plastic waste generated by online shopping and delivery services and moved for the proposal of an ordinance to establish a local program encouraging e-commerce platforms and logistics companies to adopt a take back mechanism for plastic waste through trash-to-cash initiative.

In his proposed ordinance, e-commerce and delivery platforms operating in Cagayan de Oro would be required to establish collection points at warehouses, delivery hubs, or other locations where customers can return plastic packaging materials.

These platforms will also engage accredited waste management firms to ensure the proper recycling and processing of the collected waste.

Additionally, companies will be required to submit an annual report to the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), which will detail the volume and type of plastic waste recovered, the recycling methods used, and data on consumer participation.

Abaday further proposed incentives for companies that comply with the ordinance, including public recognition as eco-friendly businesses and possible local tax discounts.

Invited in the said meeting are City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario Raagas, City Legal Officer Atty. Kenneth Tamala, CLENRO Head Engr. Armen Cuenca, and Region 10 Director of Environmental Management Bureau, Mr. Reynaldo Degamo.

The presence of Ms. Roxanne Mae Ravidas, City Budget Officer, Ms. Mey Gomez, Acting City Accountant, and Ms. Jasmin Maagad, City Treasurer, were also request. (FDCalotes/SP)