The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region III has conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Waste Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS) and finalization of the 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan on October 28-30, 2014 for the first batch and November 4-6, 2014 for the second batch. 

   The 190 participants who were from the provinces of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Pampanga were oriented and trained on the formulation of WACS Sampling Plan, Garbage Sorter and Recorder and the integration of WACS result to the SWM Plan.

   WACS is the process of gathering information on the quantity (e.g. tons per day, cubic meters per day, kilograms per household) and composition (e.g. biodegradable and non-biodegradable) and weight of solid wastes generated from various major sources.  In order to formulate an achievable waste management plan, planners must have knowledge on the type of waste, weight and volume, and composition of wastes generated within the Municipality. The data will guide planners in formulating appropriate waste management strategies, designing facilities, institutional arrangements, and provide baseline information for LGUs to monitor and evaluate its SWM performance in reducing waste generation.    WACS requires preparation and training before the conduct of actual WACS. Identification of the major sources of waste both residential and non-residential sources and sample size determination for both major sources is necessary prior to WACS.  In her message, DILG Regional Director Florida Dijan thanked the participants and expressed her gratitude to their respective Local Chief Executives for allowing them to participate in training.  “Your output is necessary as it is in compliance with their mandate under RA 9003 and Mandamus Supreme Court Decision”, she said.