Published by

Eco-Center
Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility with
Sanitary Landfill and Resource Recovery Technologies

Version 1.0
Imprint

As a federally owned enterprise, we support the German Government in achieving its objectives in
the field of international cooperation for sustainable development.

Registered offices
Bonn and Eschborn, Germany
T +49 228 44 60-0 (Bonn)
T +49 61 96 79-0 (Eschborn)

Responsible
Dr. Walter Salzer
Environment and Rural Development Program
Program Director and Principal Advisor
E: [email protected]

Ursula Flossman-Klaus
Chief Advisor
Solid Waste Management for Local Government Units Project

2/F PDCP Building

Rufino cor. Leviste Streets
Salcedo Village, Makati
Philippines

T +63 2 892 9051

I: www.enrdph.org
www.swm4lgus.net

Source and Copyrights

© 2012 Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Authors
Voltaire Acosta • E: [email protected]
Johannes Paul • E: [email protected]
Klaus Hanuschke • E: [email protected]

Editors
Ursula Flossmann-Kraus
Udo Lange • E: [email protected]
Gino Carlo Garcia • E: [email protected]
Jouke Boorsma • E: [email protected]
Aries Roda Romallosa • E: [email protected]
Shaleh Antonio
Marifel T. Moyano

Layout / Design
Marifel T. Moyano

Copyright on Photos
The photos in this publication are owned by GIZ unless otherwise indicated on the photo.

Contributors
AHT experts and official Solid Waste Management for Local Government Units (SWM4local governments)
project partners

Maps
The geographical maps are for information purposes only and do not constitute recognition under international law
of boundaries and territories. GIZ does not guarantee in any way the current status, accuracy or completeness of
the maps. All liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from their use is excluded.

Printed and distributed by

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Place and date of publication

Manila, Philippines
April 2013
Contents

Acronyms and abbreviations 4

Top reasons to establish Eco-Centers 5

Acknowledgement 6

Summary 7

Sanitary landfills 9

Policy support and contributions 13

Eco-Center Overview
Goals and objectives 18
Innovative elements and features 23
Evolution of Eco-Centers 24
Overview of phases of establishment 30
Institutionalization of the overall Solid Waste Management Program 32
Site identification and selection 34
Conceptual planning, design and permitting 35
Construction 37
Operations and monitoring 39
Closure and aftercare 39
Main cost estimates 40

Results 42

Lessons learned and success factors 45

Annexes
Annex 1: Constructed Eco-Centers as viewed from GoogleEarthTM 50
Annex 2: Publications and case studies 51
Annex 3: Diploma on Environmental Resource Management and Technologies-
Solid Waste Management at Central Philippine University 52
Annex 4: Policy proposals to NSWMC 53

3
Acronyms & abbreviations

AFR Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials KRA Key Result Areas
AHT AHT GROUP AG Management and Engineering LGU Local Government Unit
BMZ German Federal Ministry for Economic MBT Mechanical-Biological Treatment
Cooperation Mio. Million
CO2e Carbon Dioxide Equivalent MRF Materials Recovery Facility
CPU Central Philippine University NAMA Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions
DAO DENR Administrative Order NFSCC National Framework Strategy for Climate
DBM Department of Budget and Management Change 2010-2022
DENR Department of Environment and Natural NGO Non-Governmental Organization
Resources NSO National Statistics Office
DF Development Fund NSWMC National Solid Waste Management Commission
DILG Department of the Interior and Local NSWMF National Solid Waste Management Framework
Government NSWMS National Solid Waste Management Strategy
DTI Department of Trade and Industry 2012-2016
ECC Environmental Compliance Certificate PDP Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016
Eco-Center Integrated Waste Management Ecological PhP Philippine Peso
Center PoW Program of Works
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment PPP Public-Private-Partnership
EMB Environmental Management Bureau PRBM Participatory Results-Based Monitoring
ERMAT Environmental Resource Management and RA Republic Act
Technologies SLF Sanitary Landfill
GHG Greenhouse Gas sq.m. Square Meter
GIZ Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale SWM Solid Waste Management
Zusammenarbeit (GmbH) SWM4LGU Solid Waste Management for Local
ha(s) hectare(s) Government Units
HDPE High-Density Polyethylene TWG Technical Working Group
IEC Information, Education and Communication UCLA Uswag Calahunan Livelihood Association
IRA Internal Revenue Allotment WACS Waste Analysis and Characterization Study
IRR Implementing Rules and Regulations
IWS Informal Waste Sector
JMC Joint Memorandum Circular
KfW Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau
Top reasons to establish Eco-Centers

1 Eco-Centers are integrated waste management ecological

centers that can be established by local governments to comply
with legislation. By law, local governments are required to close
their dumpsites, establish sanitary landfills and achieve the 25%
mandatory waste diversion target.

2 Eco-Centers enable local governments to process waste with

much higher recovery and recycling rates prior to environmentally
sound disposal.

3 Eco-Centers create jobs, support the private sector, engage

participation, and ensure lasting environmental benefits that include
climate-relevant mitigation and adaptation measures.

4 Eco-Centers are cost-effective. They work with what is locally

available and the design is adapted to the priorities of local
governments. More efficient recovery and recycling of waste generate
income and save costs on landfilling.

5 Eco-Centers are onsite learning facilities where various groups,

especially educational institutions, can gain access to sustainable
environmental practices. It secures a permanent knowledge source
for sustainability.

6 Eco-Centers inspire and unite communities to participate in

sustainable waste management systems. Its presence demonstrates
the seriousness of the local governments about its Solid Waste
Management program.

57
 Acknowledgement

This knowledge product has been compiled in close cooperation with the National Solid
Waste Management Commission and the following partners: the Cities of Bais, Bayawan,
Iloilo, Ormoc, San Carlos and Sipalay; the Central Philippine University; and the Uswag
Calahunan Livelihood Association.

This knowledge product is in line with DENR’s thrust to promote Solid Waste Management
best practices to local governments and other stakeholders.

6
Summary

An Eco-Center is an integrated waste management facility that is equipped with appropriate

technologies to recover as much materials as possible prior to final disposal. It allows the
development and operation of centralized waste processing systems and a sanitary landfill
in a single site.

Republic Act (RA) 9003 or the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000
has fully decentralized solid waste management implementation. RA 9003 mandates cities
and municipalities to cease using dumpsites as a mode of disposal and encourages the
establishment of properly designed sanitary landfills. The legislation also puts particular
emphasis on the 3R policy of waste avoidance: reduce, reuse, recycling as well as resource
recovery, and sets a target of at least 25% diversion rate among local governments.

Many find it challenging to comply with the law primarily because of financial limitations,
lack of technical expertise or insufficient economies of scale. Previous experiences have also
shown that some Solid Waste Management initiatives may work for a while, but without any
complementary facilities, the overall Solid Waste Management system becomes inconsistent
and unsustainable.

With Eco-Centers, local governments have the option of selecting which components
are appropriate for them, taking into account economic, geographical and social factors.
Clay-lined landfill cells, gravity-driven materials recovery facilities, composting units and
low-maintenance leachate treatment plants are typical features. Value-added operations for
compost production, co-management of septage, informal sector integration and additional
climate mitigating technologies may also be introduced into the system.

The City Governments of Bais, San Carlos, Bayawan, Sipalay, Iloilo, Ormoc and other local
governments are already in varying stages of developing their Eco-Centers. Those who are
already operating, the Bayawan and San Carlos facilities, can attest for its feasibility and,
more importantly, its positive impact on the quality of life of their respective communities.
The experiences and best practices of a decade of German—Philippine cooperation in
the waste sector have also been integrated into a graduate diploma course for solid waste
management practitioners at the Central Philippine University in Iloilo.

7
8
Sanitary landfills

Based on the database of the National Solid Waste Management Commission

in 2012, an average Filipino generates between 0.3 and 0.7 kg of municipal
solid waste per day.

This is equivalent to 36,000 tons of waste (approx. 12,000 truckloads)

generated in the entire country every day wherein more than 20% is
contributed by Metro Manila. Different approaches in institutionalizing
solid waste management programs have already been explored and replicated.
However, if appropriate solid waste management facilities are not available,
such initiatives would not be cohesive and, therefore, unsustainable.

Paradigm shift: From dumpsites to landfills

Prior to the passage of the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act
of 2000 or Republic Act (RA) 9003, almost all solid wastes were disposed
at dumpsites. Dumpsites are mere open spaces hastily identified as local
disposal areas without the proper engineering measures or pollution control
systems. RA 9003 mandates the closure and rehabilitation of all dumpsites,
and the construction of sanitary landfills instead. Sanitary landfills are
disposal facilities with impermeable liners to prevent liquid discharges from
polluting ground and surface waters. It should also have a gas management
system to reduce risks of burning or explosion, a regular soil cover to
minimize odor and other environmental protection features.

As of September 2012, only around 80 out of the more than 1,600 local
governments established, or have access to, the 44 existing sanitary landfills
in the country. Most local governments are hindered by limited financial
resources, technical expertise or lack of suitable sites to establish the needed
facilities. There are those who have the capacity to finance the construction
but are unsure whether they can operate or maintain it in the longer run.
Uncertainties, cost-effectiveness or ease in operations are issues that strongly
influence a local government’s decision on whether to push through with or
defer establishing sanitary landfills. Hence, there are limited local experiences
in sound planning, design, construction, operation and monitoring for
benchmarking by others.

Technical and socio-economic constraints in resource recovery

The same challenges in waste disposal are also experienced in the
institutionalization of materials recovery systems. Local governments are
required by law to reduce or divert waste away from disposal facilities
through reuse, recycling, composting and other resource recovery activities.

9
 Eco-Centers Challenges in the waste sector

More materials diverted translate to longer sanitary landfill lifespan, higher income, improved use of
valuable resources and reduced risks for further environmental deterioration. The sale of recyclable
materials such as paper, plastic, glass and metals can be a source of income for households, the
private sector and the local governments themselves. In addition, the compost produced from
processing kitchen and yard wastes can be sold to farmers for organic agriculture applications or
to reforestation efforts such as that being currently undertaken by the Philippine government’s
National Greening Program.

Looking back, however, implementers seem to have forgotten the group of people who has been
doing this work all these years. The informal waste sector has been involved in the business, albeit
informally, of recovering valuable materials from the waste stream. Their skills and knowledge
of recyclable materials and their worth have been instrumental in traditional waste management
systems. However, this apparent contribution has been buried with the interpretation of solid waste
management policies that intended to drive them away, instead of integrating them in formal
systems. External pressures exacerbate the working conditions that the informal waste sector have to
face at dumpsites. Usual scenarios include territorial conflicts, bribery for access to facility, strongly
abled persons getting more valuable materials, child labor to augment the family’s income and lack
of protection of waste pickers from the elements.

From what has been observed, waste diversion and income generation are often held back
when local governments do not implement segregated collection schemes and when there is no
established market or application for recyclables and compost. The huge potential of the informal
waste sector to be organized or integrated into the formal program also remains untapped. Most

10
 Eco-Centers Challenges in the waste sector

A Dumpsites are mere open spaces

where waste is disposed haphazardly

B Waste segregation is encouraged in local

communities. However, complementary
infrastructures to process recovered
materials remain limited.

C Informal waste workers

importantly, the system fails when there are no complementary infrastructures built to process the
recovered materials. Without considering these factors, the entire system for waste recovery would
be unsustainable.

Public engagement in waste segregation at source

Another crucial aspect for a successful solid waste management program is the active participation
of the community and other stakeholders, particularly in waste segregation. It may take considerable
time and perseverance on the part of the local governments to engage the support of the public
because of resistance to change. Nevertheless, well-planned and implemented social marketing
campaigns facilitate the acceptance of households and business establishments to adapt to new
systems.

However, dissemination of information is not enough to change behavior. Previous instances of

eventual waning public support were attributed to inconsistency in program implementation caused
by political transitions, leniency in enforcement and lack of adequate incentives. The success of any
solid waste management program depends highly on the existence of dedicated institutions, e.g.,
Solid Waste Management Office, which run functional facilities that accommodate waste materials.
Without a complementary infrastructure in place, existing systems become more vulnerable to
regression.

11
 An Eco-Center is a viable and affordable solution for local governments to fulfill the current
law requirement for them to close their dumpsites and to construct sanitary landfills that are
both environmentally and climate-friendly.

The establishment of an integrated waste management facility or Eco-Center evolved from

experiences of the City Governments of Bais, San Carlos, Bayawan, Sipalay, Iloilo, Ormoc and
other local governments. Each are already in varying stages of developing and sustaining their Eco-
Centers.

Each Eco-Center is tailored fit to each local government. An Eco-Center is envisioned to be the
central facility that houses appropriate technologies to recover and process materials out of the
collected pre-segregated waste in order to reduce the capacity requirements for disposal. An Eco-
Center is a practical option for local governments to improve planning and implementation of
their Solid Waste Management program by promoting circular economy. Resources are collected,
re-processed and brought back to the mainstream economic loop. Hence, this model encourages
greater stakeholder involvement and accountability.

With Eco-Centers, local governments have the option of selecting which components are appropriate
for them, taking into account economic, geographical and social factors. With the presence of
onsite resource recovery facilities, more recyclable materials are being recovered particularly those
that are sellable, thereby creating economic opportunities for the system. Value-added operations
for compost production, co-management of septage, informal sector integration and additional
climate-mitigating technologies may also be introduced into the system.
12
Eco-Centers
Policy support and contributions

From the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines to laws

and regulations on local governance and environmental management,
the establishment of Eco-Centers directly contributes to the realization
of a number of legislations (Table 1). The resulting impacts also support
national plans and strategies.

Espousing good local governance

The establishment of Eco-Centers materializes and localizes the role of the
State to protect the people’s right to health and to a balanced ecology. The
Local Government Code of 1991 mandates local governments to efficiently
and effectively deliver basic services and facilities to its constituents, among
which is solid waste management.

In terms of financing, the DILG and DBM issued Joint Memorandum

Circular (JMC) No. 2011- 01, allowing local governments to utilize their
development funds for the establishment of sanitary landfills and materials
recovery facilities. Solid waste management facilities may be established in
a single area or by a single municipality; however, experiences reveal the
operational advantages of the Eco-Center concept, in terms of logistics and
economies of scale.

Compliance to environmental policies

As the overarching policy governing ecological solid waste management
implementation in the Philippines, the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste
Management Act of 2000 or RA 9003 mandates all local governments to cease
using dumpsites as the final repository for solid wastes. Along with closure
and rehabilitation of existing dumps, local governments would have to put
up sanitary landfills as the legitimate mode of disposal. Such stipulations
are detailed under supplemental guidelines such as DENR Administrative
Order (DAO) Nos. 2001-34 and 2006-10. Various national environmental
legislations also require wastewater or leachate control measures to prevent
surface and groundwater contamination. Although the bulk of the gas
mixtures emanating from disposal facilities are not considered as primary
air pollutants under the Philippine Clean Air Act, proper gas management
systems need to be in place in order to reduce occupational safety and
climate change risks.

13
 Eco-Centers Policy support and contributions

Table 1. Key policies and guidelines supported through the establishment of Eco-Centers
Year Key relevant policy or framework Description

2012- The Philippine National Solid Waste • The full potential of recycling has always been hindered by the quality of
2016 Management Strategy (NSWMS): recyclables and compost products as well as limited appreciation of its value.
Component 4: Creating economic The creation of economic opportunities from recovered materials can be realized
opportunities with sustainable markets and improved processing facilities. NSWMS also aims
Component 5: Support for knowledge for local governments to have access to appropriate solid waste management
management on technology, technologies and to conduct the needed researches to assess its suitability to
innovation and research local conditions.
Component 8c: Reducing • Furthermore, solid waste management is in itself a set of climate mitigation
disaster and climate change risks and adaptation actions. Hence, NSWMS envisions to climate-proof solid waste
through solid waste management management systems, programs and infrastructures through enhanced planning,
waste collection, resource recovery and safe disposal.

2011- The Philippine Development Plan: • The Plan’s infrastructure development program ensures equitable access to
2016 Chapter 5: Accelerating infrastructure infrastructure services. The government aims to accelerate the provision of
development safe, efficient, reliable, cost–effective and sustainable infrastructure. Under its
“social infrastructure” component, the PDP aims to increase the percentage of
Chapter 10: Conservation, protection the number of local governments served by sanitary landfills to 7.76% by 2016.
and rehabilitation of the environment Meanwhile, the PDP’s environmental protection program mitigates the demands
and natural resources arising from development, population expansion, poor environmental protection
and climate change, through integrated approaches. Targets by 2016 include an
increase in waste diversion rate by 50% through reuse, recycling and composting
and other resource recovery activities; closure and rehabilitation of all existing
dumpsites; and full operationalization of National/Regional Ecology Centers.
2011 DILG-DBM Joint Memorandum Circular • IRA represents the annual budget that each local government receives from
(JMC) 2011-01: Amending Guidelines the national government. 20% of this, also called development fund (DF), is
on the Appropriation and Utilization of appropriated for development projects. DILG and DBM’s JMC itemizes social,
the 20% of Internal Revenue Allotment economic and environmental management development projects allowed to tap
(IRA) for Development Projects the DF. Specifically, item 3.3.3 encourages its utilization for the “construction or
rehabilitation of sanitary landfills, material recovery facilities and purchase of
garbage trucks and related equipment”.
2010- National Framework Strategy on • Pursuant to RA 9729 (Climate Change Act of 2009), the Climate Change
2022 Climate Change (NFSCC): Chapter 8: Commission passed NFSCC, which finds the waste sector as the third largest
Mitigation pillar on waste management GHG emitter. In response to this, NFSCC identifies solid waste management
as among the six priority sectors with the following strategic priorities: (a)
Enhanced implementation of RA 9003; (b) Promotion of best practices in waste
management, involving all categories of waste; and (c) Strengthen the advocacy
of proper waste management as a tool toward better communicating and
mobilizing the public to address climate change.
2006 DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2006- • As supplemental guideline on establishing sanitary landfills, it offers an
10: Guidelines on categorized sanitary option for local governments that generate net residual wastes of less than
landfills 75 tons daily to use low-permeability clay liners as an alternative to more
expensive synthetic ones, including all the conditional environmental protection
requirements per category.
2004 National Solid Waste Management • As provided for under RA 9003, NSWMF outlines the preferred approach to
Framework (NSWMF) support the adoption of a systematic, comprehensive and ecological solid
waste management program. It focuses on the waste management hierarchy
that emphasizes waste avoidance and minimization through reuse, recycling,
composting and resource recovery.
2001 DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2001- • Rule XI provides for the establishment of materials recovery and composting
34: Implementing Rules and facilities, whereas Rule XII provides guidance for local governments to
Regulations of RA 9003 institutionalize recycling programs. Rule XIV provides for the minimum
considerations in the site selection and operation of sanitary landfills as Rule XIII
already mandates for the closure of dumps as disposal facilities.
2000 Republic Act 9003: Ecological Solid • RA 9003 mandates all local governments to cease using dumpsites as the final
Waste Management Act repository for solid wastes. Section 37 states that no open dumps shall be
established as means of disposal of solid waste and all dumpsites should have
been closed and rehabilitated by 2006. Sections 40 to 44 of the law provide for
the minimum considerations in establishing individual or shared sanitary landfills.
At the same time, the innovation supports RA 9003 mandates on waste diversion
(Section 20) and provisions to enhance recycling initiatives (Sections 26 to 33),
including the establishment of a composting and materials recovery facility.
1991 Republic Act 7160: The Local • Local governments shall endeavor to be self-reliant and continue exercising the
Government Code of the Philippines, powers and discharging the duties and functions vested and devolved upon them.
Section 17: Basic services and facilities Local governments shall likewise undertake efficient and effective provision of
the basic services and facilities.
1987 Constitution of the Republic of the • The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill
Philippines, Sections 15-16 health consciousness among them. The State shall protect and advance the right
of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and
harmony of nature.

14
 Eco-Centers Policy support and contributions

At the same time, the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 requires the diversion
of at least 25% of waste away from disposal facilities, which can be done through the establishment
of composting and materials recovery facilities. All these requirements can be realized in a cost-
effective manner through an integrated facility or Eco-Center.

Alignment with national plans and priorities

Eco-Centers are in line with and support the goals of the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016,
the National Solid Waste Management Strategy 2012-2016 and the National Framework Strategy
on Climate Change (NFSCC) 2010-2022. The NFSCC calls for the full implementation of the
Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 as one of its climate change mitigation
pillars. Meanwhile, the Philippine Development Plan aims to increase the number of local governments
served by sanitary landfills as well as to increase waste diversion rate by 50% by 2016.

15
 Eco-Centers
Goals & objectives • Innovative elements and features • Evolution of Eco-Centers •
Phases in Eco-Center establishment • Main costs estimates

17
 Eco-Centers
Goals and objectives
An Eco-Center is a one-stop shop for waste processing technologies.

The infrastructure is affordable and easy to construct, operate and maintain. However, Eco-Centers
are not about the infrastructure alone. A successfully running Eco-Center is integrated within a
comprehensive Solid Waste Management system, which includes activities such as segregation at
source, scheduled segregated collection, social marketing campaigns, etc.

Eco-Center establishment also positively influences inclusive planning, gender and development,
poverty reduction, environmental education, climate change mitigation and disaster risk reduction
and management.

“Based on experiences in the Visayas, the National Solid Waste

Management Commission Secretariat and DENR have adopted
guidelines on the application of low permeability clay as
alternative liner materials for smaller sanitary
landfills. It is hoped that this phased compliance solution
will usher in higher RA 9003 compliance rates among local
governments, ideally through integrated or cluster approach. ”
Emelita Aguinaldo, Executive Director,
National Solid Waste Management Commission Secretariat

Eco-Centers enhance resource recovery

The Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 or RA 9003
mandates local governments to divert more than 25% of waste away from
disposal sites. It has a good reason. At a time when valuable resources are
in high demand and steadily depleting, consumed minerals and nutrients
should be brought back to its useful cycle.

The informal waste sector has already demonstrated that this can be done for
many recyclable materials. For biodegradables, households and farmers alike
have been composting organic matter throughout known history. However,
the pressures of urbanization call for an improved collective action. The
challenge of plucking out and re-processing such materials from the bulk of
residuals generated by urban centers needs additional efforts and should be
addressed in an integrated and sustainable manner.

18
 Eco-Centers Goals and objectives

“Because of our Eco-Center, our city has been able to steadily

increase our waste diversion rates to the present level of 64%,
way beyond the legally required 25%. We are happy that our efforts
have been recognized not only by our constituents but by regional,
national and international award-giving bodies.”
Engr. Loreto Sanchez, Solid Waste Management Office,
San Carlos City, Negros Occidental

Eco-Centers support compliance to safe disposal requirements

No matter how good recycling and composting programs are, there will
always be some fractions of municipal solid waste that have very low
economic value. When best available technologies and techniques are not
yet deemed good or cost-effective enough, residual wastes would have to be
disposed in an environmentally sound manner.

The most common restraining factor in putting up a sanitary landfill is its

cost, both capital and operational. A completely engineered sanitary landfill
requires a highly impermeable or difficult to penetrate liner (Figure 1) to
safeguard groundwater as well as a leachate treatment system to protect
surface waters from getting contaminated. Furthermore, the operation
needs trained staff and heavy equipment to stabilize the waste mountain
to maximize landfill capacity and to minimize environmental and health
impacts. The inherent objective of Eco-Centers is to provide technically
sound alternatives to traditional plastic lining material and high-maintenance
wastewater treatment technologies.

Figure 1. Use of clay as landfill liner at Bayawan Eco-Center

19
 Eco-Centers Goals and objectives

Eco-Centers encourage greater stakeholder participation

Solid wastes are usually generated from the residential, commercial,
institutional and manufacturing sectors. Barangay, city and municipal
governments are supposed to provide the service of collecting these wastes on
a regular basis. However, the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management
Act of 2000 or RA 9003 instructs that waste collection should be undertaken
in a segregated manner, thereby requesting waste generators to segregate
their waste at source. This mandate requires full community buy-in,
including the participation of households, the private sector, academe and
non-government organizations.

In order to convince the public that the local government’s new system of
waste management is carefully planned and ready for implementation, Eco-
Centers have to be established to complement the other functional elements
of the local solid waste management program.

“At the planning stages

of our Eco-Center, we
worked closely with the
Solid Waste Management
departments. We were
tasked to conduct full-cost
accounting. This is crucial
not only to support our
Mayor and city council in
financial decision-making
but also in helping us
get public support.”
Corazon Lirazan, City
Accountant, Bayawan City,
Negros Oriental

Eco-Center establishment fosters local government planning and coordination

Waste management is not solely the job of the local environment or solid waste office. Other local
government departments have to be involved to develop a more cohesive solid waste management
strategy. Legislative councils have the power to pass local ordinances; planning officers are in
the position to integrate solid waste management in local land use and development plans; and
engineering personnel have the skills to design public infrastructures. Local agriculture, business
licensing, trade and industry, market administration, public information, social welfare and other
offices also have contributory roles in solid waste management. Therefore, inter-departmental
coordination and harmonization and the support of local chief executives are called for in the
development of Eco-Centers.

20
 Eco-Centers Goals and objectives

Eco-Centers promote inclusive growth

The informal waste sector is often condoned, if not ignored, at most “Before our local
disposal facilities. They are exposed to the natural elements as well government provided us
as possible disease-causing fractions of waste. Another intention of with the city Material
having Eco-Centers is to reduce occupational hazards and potential Recovery Facility, we had
conflicts among waste pickers, whether formal or informal. Having to fight for the best scraps
a fairer system for materials recovery is beneficial to waste pickers, from arriving trucks … we
especially for the women. Once the local government recognizes the had to compete with more
able-bodied men. Mostly,
inherent skills of the informal waste sector, they could be mainstreamed
we were working on top
into the formal solid waste management program of the locality to of the dumpsite. Odor
enhance local recycling initiatives. Alternative livelihood at Eco- was very bad. But at that
Centers could also be discussed with the waste reclaimers. The first time, we were convincing
step in recognizing the role of the informal waste sector remains to ourselves that our bodies
be the provision for shade and safer working conditions for workers. were already becoming
immune to the dust
As their ultimate goal is income generation through the sale of
and smell”.
Rowena Y. Garcia, 40 years
recyclables, the private sector also depends on an efficient waste old with 6 children, Waste
recovery system to deliver the needed materials to the industry Picker, Brgy. Calahunan,
and energy sectors. Eco-Centers are established precisely with the Iloilo City
intention of optimizing the amount of recovered materials prior to
disposal.

The Uswag Calahunan Livelihood Association, incorporated members trained on entrepreneurship and
alternative sources of income such as recycled bag making

21
 Eco-Centers Goals and objectives

Greenhouse at Bais City landfill during eco-efficient soil cover tests

Eco-Centers have climate mitigation and adaptation implications

Unlike open dumpsites, Eco-Centers feature sanitary landfills. In view of the
fact that the areas previously chosen for use as dumpsites were not properly
selected, these facilities have not been ‘climate-proofed’. The many incidents
involving dumpsites such as garbage-slides, explosions and washouts,
especially during torrential rains, reveal site disasters waiting to happen.
New and proposed sanitary landfills now have to observe the harmonized
guidelines on landfill site selection, which consider hazard maps, risks to
flooding or inundation, slope factors, geological formation, groundwater
and soil characteristics, and other site selection criteria.

Similarly, uncollected garbage tends to be merely thrown anywhere

by unmindful citizens. Most of these end up in creeks and canals that
consequently contribute to blocking the natural drainage of rainwater. With
Eco-Centers established, most local governments would be able to improve
collection efficiency, frequency and coverage area because of the availability
of the facility that could accommodate municipal solid wastes.

The waste sector has been identified as the third largest greenhouse gas
(GHG) contributor during the 2000 national GHG emissions inventory in
the Philippines. Emissions are mainly attributable to open waste dumping
and wastewater from cities and communities. As a response, the Climate
Change Commission’s National Framework Strategy on Climate Change
2010-2022 has set an enhanced implementation of RA 9003 as one of its
six mitigation pillars.

22
Eco-Centers
Innovative elements and features

Bentonite clay-lined Gravity-driven Onsite composting Trommel screens

sanitary landfill materials recovery systems for compost quality
facility control

Leachate treatment Septic sludge Informal sector Nationally

technologies management integration appropriate
system mitigation actions
(NAMA) in SWM

An Eco-Center is a facility that provides appropriate technologies to process and recover materials
prior to final disposal (Figure 2: San Carlos Eco-Center ). It allows the development and operation
of centralized waste processing systems and safe disposal area in a single site. This modality has
already been successfully pilot-tested under different local conditions, attesting to its applicability
in the Philippine setting. Although the approach is similar, site development plans and the design
of specific technologies slightly vary from place to place, or, in other words, site-specific. Annex 1
shows the location and images of some of these Eco-Centers as viewed from GoogleEarthTM.

Local governments have the flexibility to select which components are appropriate for them.
Clay- lined landfill cells, low-cost gravity-driven materials recovery facilities, static composting units,
and low-maintenance leachate treatment facilities are typical features. Value-added operations for
compost production, co-management of septic sludge, informal sector integration and additional
GHG emissions-mitigating technologies can further enhance the Eco-Center system. Many of
these case studies have been properly documented, as detailed in Annex 2.

23
 Eco-Centers Innovative elements and features

Figure 2. The San Carlos City Eco-Center, from its conceptual design (A), to the actual (B) and facility layout (C)

Evolution of Eco-Centers

2003 2007 2009

Bais City San Carlos City Iloilo City

Pioneering the use of clay as landfill Introducing novel gravity-driven Organizing the waste pickers into
liner materials recovery facility design formal association
In 2000, Bais City, Negros Oriental, The concept of an integrated Although Iloilo City is still in the
began their establishment of approach has been introduced in approval stages of establishing its
barangay-level composting and San Carlos City, Negros Occidental new integrated facility, it has already
materials recovery facilities. The when the facility was inaugurated in made headways in organizing and
development cooperation also September 2007. In addition to clay- empowering the informal waste
pioneered the use of low-cost, lined landfill cells, the San Carlos Eco- sector, which is essential in Eco-
bentonite clay-lined sanitary landfill, Center ushered in a novel technology Center operations and inclusive
which offered a technically feasible called “centralized gravity-driven planning.
alternative to the more expensive materials recovery facility”. It did not
synthetic liner. Inaugurated in require electricity to operate yet it
July 2003, this initiative inspired significantly increased the efficiency
the issuance of DAO 2006-10, in material sorting.
recommending this option as a
minimum requirement for smaller
sanitary landfills.
24
 B C
LEGEND
Delivered waste
Residual
Shredded / unshredded
Compost production
Recyclables
MBT wastes

2010 2012 2012

Bayawan City Sipalay City Ormoc City

Integrating sanitation into the Eco- Inspiring initiatives for mentoring Upgrading the landfill liner for
Center and replication climate-proofing
The same concept in San Carlos Only one year later, another local The latest one to follow suit is Ormoc
City was later replicated in Bayawan government benchmarked the City but with slight modifications
City, Negros Oriental but with an concept on its own with advisory in sanitary landfill cell design. Due
additional feature: a septic sludge support from the trained personnel to limitations in topography, soil
treatment system with a sludge drying of GIZ’s other partner local strata and micro-climatic conditions,
bed. The component was designed governments. The opening of Sipalay the local government decided to use
to accommodate septage as part of City’s Eco-Center in March 2012 HDPE liner, which has been put in
its local sanitation program and the again proved the replicability of the place early May 2012. Indeed this
entire facility was inaugurated in product and the preparedness of has been a relatively more expensive
April 2010. GIZ’s partners to serve as mentors to option but it offsets construction
others. time and potential environmental
risks due to site-specific situations.

25
 Eco-Centers Innovative elements and features

Bentonite clay-lined sanitary landfill

The traditional material used to render landfill cells to
limit or prevent water seepage is high-density polyethylene
(HDPE) plastic material. The relatively expensive HDPE
is mandatory for bigger landfills per NSWMC guidelines.
However, with the pioneering efforts in Bais City, it was
found that compacted bentonite clay or clay-spiked host soil
may be used as an alternative liner material as long as it passes
the permeability requirements of DENR Administrative Order
(DAO) No. 2006-10.

Gravity-driven materials recovery facility (MRF)

Most materials recovery facilities established in the country
are small-scale and are modeled after junkshops. A few
bigger materials recovery facilities use electricity-driven
belt conveyors to facilitate secondary waste segregation. As
a fusion of these two models, San Carlos City pioneered a
centralized materials recovery facility design that allows
a more efficient sorting process albeit without the use of
electricity. It is designed in such a way that materials are
delivered at the upper portion of the materials recovery
facility while manually sorted fractions are plowed down the
segregated shoots for easy waste movement.

Onsite composting systems

Various combinations of composting technologies have been applied and tested by partner cities.
In San Carlos and Ormoc, biodegradable wastes are shredded, pre-composted at windrows (long
open piles) and then enriched using vermi composting (worms) technology in boxes. Bayawan City
uses a similar process flow, albeit the vermicomposting part is undertaken in concrete vermi-beds.
Previously, Bayawan tried using the rotating drum composting technology but looked for other
options because of operational cost implications. In Iloilo City, various enhancement measures were
tested to enhance the quality of compost produced.

Windrow composting facility in San Carlos City

26
 Eco-Centers Innovative elements and features

Trommel / rotary screens for compost

quality control
Trommels are also known as rotary screens.
It simply separates oversized materials from
smaller fractions. These pieces of fabricated
equipment are usually used to select ideal
particle sizes after shredding but prior to
composting. Trommels with finer mesh
are also used as a value-adding operation
to improve the quality of compost product
before packaging.

Leachate treatment technologies

The purpose of a landfill cell liner is to prevent liquid contaminants from leaching into the
groundwater. These liquid discharges should be properly treated prior to release into receiving
bodies of water like creeks, rivers or lakes. Bais City adopted a multi-stage system that includes solids
separation, aerobic biological treatment, chemical treatment and a monitoring pond. In San Carlos
City, leachate undergoes solids removal and aeration, and then passes through a series of trickling
filter, planted gravel filter and reed bed systems as polishing steps. Meanwhile, the Bayawan Eco-
Center installed a buffer lagoon, anaerobic baffled reactor, aerobic pond and constructed wetlands
(reed bed) system.

San Carlos City Bayawan City Sipalay City

Septic sludge management system

Pushing the “integrated” concept a step further,
Bayawan City embarked upon the inclusion of a
septic sludge treatment facility into their Eco-Center.
Septic sludge management is a sanitation issue as
toilet tank desludging should be done regularly.
Collected sludge should either be digested or dried
to make it stable wherein the resulting product is a
nutrient-rich “night soil”. The local government of
Bayawan consequently has also set up a wastewater
treatment facility within its Eco-Center as sludge
drying beds also generate wastewater as a by-product.

Bayawan City

27
 Eco-Centers Innovative elements and features

Informal sector integration

The National Framework Plan for the Informal Waste Sector (2009) defines this sector as individuals,
families, groups or small enterprises engaged in the recovery of waste materials either on a full-time
or part-time basis with revenue generation as the motivation outside certified businesses and formal
employment. It consists mainly of waste pickers, informal waste collectors, itinerant waste buyers
and others. Iloilo City installed two centralized units of materials recovery facilities to provide waste
reclaimers with a shaded area for resource recovery equipped with a mechanized waste conveyor
sorting system and bailing (pressing) equipment.

The Iloilo City local government also capacitated the informal waste sector in values formation and
alternative livelihood education, which led to the formalization of the Uswag Calahunan Livelihood
Association (UCLA). Having such an association is advantageous because the registration process
is simpler and quicker than that of a cooperative because of the smaller board structure and less
administrative hurdles, and also with legal identity, the group can enter into legal contracts, e.g.,
with external supporting parties or financiers for their activities.

Meanwhile, San Carlos City adopted a slightly different technique to recognize the role and skills of
the informal waste sector. Some of the former waste pickers at the city’s closed dumpsite had been
hired directly by the city government to formally work at the new Eco-Center.

28
 Eco-Centers Innovative elements and features

One-tonner cement bags filled with non-sellable, high-energy Household briquetting machine developed
content materials by the Central Philippine University

A total of 12,400 tons

of CO2-equivalent
was avoided at
Ormoc City’s
vermicomposting
facility during the
time period 2006-
2010, which was
estimated using a
GIZ-KfW climate
calculator

Proper solid waste management can contribute to climate change mitigation

Methane gas, usually expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e), from mixed waste
is the main GHG contribution of the waste sector to climate change. It is estimated that every
kilogram (kg) of food waste delivered at disposal facilities can generate between 0.4 and 0.5 kg
CO2e of methane in shallow landfills (<5m) and from 0.8 to 1.1 kg CO2e in deep compacted
landfills (>5m). Hence, various technical approaches may be considered at Eco-Centers, particularly
to enhance organic waste management. Among additional measures being studied are improved
biowaste processing capacities, anaerobic digestion technologies,mechanical-biological treatment,
use of eco-efficient soil cover, co-processing in cement kilns, landfill gas flaring and electricity
generation.

So far, the Cities of Bais and Ormoc have tested the efficiency of methane reduction using a new soil
cover technique. In Iloilo City, Holcim Cement Philippines partnered with the Uswag Calahunan
Livelihood Association in the recovery of alternative fuels and raw materials (AFR) for use in cement
kilns. Further assistance to this Association was provided by the Central Philippine University to
study the utilization of waste briquettes as fuel for household use.

29
 Eco-Centers
Overview of phases of establishment
Based on the experiences of the Cities of Bais, San Carlos, Bayawan, Sipalay and Ormoc, the steps shown
below may be followed in setting up individual or shared city / municipal local government Eco-Centers.

1
Institutionalization
2
Site identification
3
Conceptual planning,
of the overall Solid and selection design and permitting
Waste Management
(SWM) Program

1 1 1
Formation and Preparation of initial Calculation of
STEP activation of the STEP concept for the STEP capacity requirements
city / municipal proposed Eco-Center
SWM board

Identification of 2
STEP
Topographic survey

2
Creation of focal
2
STEP
candidate sites

3
and dedicated (manual or using Site development
STEP SWM office thematic maps) STEP planning

Preparation
3 3 4
Pre-screening of Application for
and approval identified sites based Environmental
STEP STEP STEP
of a 10-year on exclusion criteria Compliance
SWM plan Certificate

4
Detailed hydro-

4 5
SWM training geological Detailed engineering
STEP
STEP using toolkit investigation, STEP design
including soil
analysis

6
Formation of Program of works
5
STEP
ad hoc Technical
Working Group
STEP and budgeting

for Eco-Center
establishment

30
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

4
Construction
5
Operations and
6
Closure and aftercare
monitoring

1 1 1
Site survey and ground Inspection and Physical closure
STEP preparations, including STEP record-keeping STEP
excavation works

2
Final soil cover

2
Sorting of STEP and capping

2
Placement of landfill STEP recyclables
STEP liner and use of clay at Materials

3
and / or High-Density Recovery Facility Post-closure
Polyethylene (HDPE), as STEP management
needed

3
STEP
Composting of
biodegradables
4
STEP
Post-closure

3
Perforation of pipes and land use
STEP placement of leachate
collection system
4
STEP
Waste spreading
and daily cover at
sanitary landfill

4
Addition of sand for
STEP liner protection and
gravel for leachate
drainage 5
STEP
Wastewater and
sludge treatment

5 6
Installation of gas Leachate and gas
STEP management system STEP monitoring
and slope protection
measures

6
Construction of other
STEP Eco-Center components
such as leachate
treatment, materials
recovery, composting
and septage treatment
facilities, including
administrative office,
motorpool, weighbridge,
guardhouse and
perimeter fence
31
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

1 Institutionalization of the overall Solid

Waste Management Program
In the principle that a system may not function cohesively when there is no supporting infrastructure,
the same goes for the premise that a facility cannot operate without an overarching system. The
Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 or RA 9003 has already provided local
governments with the basic requisites of a Solid Waste Management program. It is also worthy to
note some additional elements that contribute to its feasibility.

1
Formation and activation of the city / municipal Solid Waste
STEP Management Board
Section 12 of RA 9003 mandates the creation of local Solid Waste
Management Boards that shall prepare and oversee the implementation
of 10-year Solid Waste Management Plans in areas under its geographic
and political coverage. Headed by the Mayor, the Board comprises of local
decision-makers and key stakeholders. There had been cases when facilities
are established by the local government without the help of the board, but
to ensure good governance, sustainability, transparency and accountability,
the creation and involvement of the Solid Waste Management Board is
important.

Creation of focal and dedicated Solid Waste Management Office

2
STEP The Local Government Code of Philippines (RA 7160) only stipulates the
creation of city / municipal environment and natural resource office as
optional positions. However, in light of devolving environmental functions
to local governments, the strategic importance of having a dedicated office
and personnel becomes clear. When the local budget allows it, it does not
deter local chief executives from proposing its formal creation. GIZ partner
local governments that have been efficient in Solid Waste Management and
Eco-Center planning are those that provided dedicated technical officers
as counterparts. Such officers later on became Eco-Center managers who
supervised the day-to-day operations of the facility.

3
Preparation and approval of a 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan
STEP Sections 16 and 17 of the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management
Act of 2000 (RA 9003) require the formulation, adoption and approval of
local Solid Waste Management Plans. Identified key result areas (KRAs)
in the plans should be customized with the results of Waste Analysis and
Characterization Study. The plan, which is developed by the Solid Waste
Management Board and Solid Waste Management Office, guides local
governments in systematically providing efficient management of solid
wastes generated within its jurisdiction. Its primary emphasis is on all feasible
reuse, recycling, composting and other resource recovery activities while
identifying treatment and landfill options for residual waste. Moreover,
when the local council adopts the 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan,
proper institutional and budgetary support is assured to facilitate the timely
delivery of KRAs within the target period.
32
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

Solid Waste Management Training using Toolkit

4
STEP A Toolkit on Eco-Center, composed of 18 modules, was developed. The Toolkit
contains essential elements that local governments need to know to enhance Solid Waste
Management sector development. The Toolkit was part of a training program that was
complemented by actual study visits and actual on-the-job training at the Pohlsche Heide
Waste Management Facility in Minden, Germany. The Toolkit has been pilot-tested to
capacitate around 50 technical national government personnel namely the NSWMC,
DENR-EMB and local governments, with additional 30 in-house recipients from two
partner cities. Some modules are currently being utilized by NSWMC in its nationwide
capacity building programs, although its formal adoption for standardized accreditation
system is currently being reviewed. Alternatively, focal Solid Waste Management staff
may enroll at the Central Philippine University’s diploma program on Environmental
Resource Management and Technologies-Solid Waste Management (Annex 3) wherein
teaching materials were customized based on these training modules. Contents of the
toolkit are as follows:

PART 1 PART 2 PART 3

1. Principles of SWM (including 6. Informal waste sector integration 11. Sanitary landfill site selection
cross-cutting issuessuch as and public-private partnership 12. SLF design, planning and
PRBM, gender aspects, conflict (PPP) Environmental Impact
transition and poverty reduction) 7. Mechanical-Biological Treatment Assessment (EIA) process
2. SWM Planning (MBT) 13. SLF construction
3. Segregation and segregated 8. Dumpsite closure and 14. SLF operation
collection rehabilitation 15. SLF monitoring
4. Material recovery and recycling 9. Social marketing, IEC and 16. SWM and climate change
5. Composting and biodegradables Knowledge management 17. E-waste management
management 10. SWM Financing and cost-recovery 18. Landfill gas management

“The developed Diploma Program on Environmental Resource Management

and Technologies major in Solid Waste Management (ERMAT-SWM) is linked with
the local governments who have Eco-Centers. Students visit the different
Eco-Centers which reinforces the concepts they learn in the program.”.
Engr. Aries Roda Romallosa, Instructor and Course Coordinator,
Diploma Program on ERMAT-SWM, Central Philippine University, Iloilo City

5
STEP Formation of ad hoc Technical Working Group for Eco-Center establishment
Carrying out the policies of the Solid Waste Management board, trained Solid Waste
Management focal officers can effectively plan, design and establish Eco-Centers. Special
expertise may also be provided by the private sector, academe or consultants. Still, it is
advisable that an ad hoc technical working group (TWG) under the leadership of the
Solid Waste Management Office or Municipal / City Environment and Natural Resource
Office (ENRO) be formed to undertake this specific task. With the TWG involved in all
stages of developing the Eco-Center, there will be enough institutional memory on the
side of the local government to troubleshoot problems that may be encountered during
the operation, maintenance and post-closure stages of the facility. It also ensures that the
basis for designing the infrastructure project is consistent with other relevant policies and
programs of the city / municipality.
33
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

2 Site identification and selection

The Eco-Center’s landfill component is designed to isolate residual wastes from communities to
reduce health and environmental risks to them. As such, it entails a technically sound site selection
process. There are existing policies that provide guidance for project proponents in determining
whether certain areas are suitable locations for landfills. In general, local governments undergo the
following steps in Eco-Center site identification and selection:

1
Preparation of initial concept for the proposed Eco-Center
STEP Sites should be evaluated according to the criteria set under
several laws (RA 9003, DAO 2001-34 and DAO 98-50), although
partner local governments have worked with NSWMC in
clarifying these standards. So far, the Harmonized Guidelines
on Site Suitability Assessment and Selection Procedure has
already been endorsed for official adoption, as discussed in
Annex 4. One rule is: the better the chosen site is, the cheaper
the development and operational costs will be in the long run.

2
Identification of candidate sites (manual or using thematic
STEP maps)
Based on an initial project concept, the local government
proposes candidate sites. Available thematic maps may be used
to zero in on areas that are potentially appropriate for the Eco-
Center.

Pre-screening of identified sites based on exclusion criteria

3
STEP Preliminary assessments must ensure that it will not be located
in an area categorically excluded for landfill use. Once it passes
initial screening, detailed environmental, socio-economic and
hydro-ecological investigations would have to be conducted to
establish baseline conditions.

Detailed hydro-geological investigation, including soil

4
STEP analysis
All findings must be evaluated by competent experts from the
DENR (EMB, MGB) or the private sector. Such information
will also be later needed for (a) environmental impact assessment
(EIA) study and (b) actual design of the facility. Analysis of
soil properties is also important to determine if suitable clayey
materials are available onsite, specifically for use as landfill liner.
This has technical and financial implications on decisions that
the local government has to make prior to property acquisition.

34
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

3 Conceptual planning, design and

permitting
To consolidate the local government’s technical expertise, it is recommended that the ad hoc
Technical Working Group be mobilized to jointly undertake conceptual planning. Headed by the
local government’s Solid Waste Management Office, the Technical Working Group along with
external experts has to design the Eco-Center and consolidate the supporting documents needed
for regulatory permit applications.

1
STEP
Calculation of capacity
requirements 2
STEP
Topographic survey

Initial estimates on the size and capacity of the facility should be made based on the 10-year Solid
Waste Management Plan, Waste Analysis and Characterization Study data and other relevant
guidelines. The proposed site should be scaled in a topographic map, preferably at 1cm : 2.5m or
at least 1:10 scale.

3
STEP
Site development planning
4
STEP

Application for Environmental

Compliance Certificate

35
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

Eco-Center features, aside from landfill cells, should be decided upon and embedded into the
site development plan. More resource recovery elements within the facility mean smaller and
cheaper sanitary landfill needs. Examples of these features are access road, weighbridge, composting
facilities, Materials Recovery Facility, etc. Equipped with such plans and documents, the local
government is ready to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study and apply for an
Environmental Compliance Certificate from DENR-EMB. Once approved, the local government
may proceed with detailed engineering design and program of works for budget allocation by the
city / municipal council.

5
STEP
Detailed engineering design

6
STEP Program of works and budgeting

36
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

4 Construction
The most critical aspect of Eco-Center construction is the development of its sanitary landfill
component. The quality of landfill design specifications and actual site preparations ensures
structural stability and functionality over its useful life. Based on experience, construction schedules
have to coincide with the dry season to avoid problems associated with rains.

Figure 3 illustrates how a typical Category 2 landfill is constructed. A Category 2 landfill is one
that can accommodate between 15 and 75 tons of residual wastes per day, in accordance with DAO
2006-10. More than 95% of cities and municipalities in the Philippines generate less than 75 tons
of residual waste daily. For other landfill categories, a different set of criteria is required, although
construction methods are similar in nature. Construction commences with ground preparations.
sanitary landfill layout is contoured on existing topography so excavation works depend on the
planned slope for landfill base as well as the desired depth of the landfill cell. The permeability
of host soil will dictate the need for amendment of bentonite clay to achieve legally mandated
requirements. Once the clayey mixture has reached ideal moisture and homogeneity, the layer
is ready for levelling and compaction. A layer of sand is added to protect the liner, and gravel
needs to be put in place to aid leachate collection through drain pipes. Finally, a gas vent system
is installed. All such steps, particularly the preparation and placement of landfill liner, must be
properly supervised and documented for quality control and assurance.

Figure 3. Construction of a Category 2 landfill at the Bayawan City Eco-Center

37
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

The construction of landfill cells, processing and other facilities within an Eco-Center is illustrated
in the following photo-documentation from Bayawan City.

Site survey and ground preparations, Placement of landfill liner and

1
STEP including excavation works 2
STEP use of clay and / or high-density
polyethylene (HDPE), as needed

3
STEP
Perforation of pipes and placement
of leachate collection system 4
STEP
Addition of sand for liner protection
and gravel for leachate drainage

Installation of gas management Construction of other Eco-Center

5
STEP system and slope protection
measures
6
STEP components (i.e. leachate treatment,
materials recovery, composting and
septage treatment facilities, etc.)

38
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

5 Operations and monitoring

The preceding steps of proper site selection and
construction have already helped to ensure that
the facility will minimize hazards to human
health and the environment. But the job does
not end there. In sync with sound and consistent
operations, the Eco-Center concept provides
a multi-barrier system for improved waste
management.

A dedicated facility manager should be appointed

by the local government to oversee the day-to-day
administration of the Eco-Center. The manager
needs to be trained on the different aspects of facility operations, environmental protection, and
occupational health and safety procedures. Upon arrival of trucks, inspection must be done prior
to waste acceptance. Things to consider are the quantity, origin and type of waste. Records should
be kept for reporting and evaluation purposes. Each thin layer of waste has to be covered with
inert material, which is typically soil. Any landfill gas generated should be handled properly to
minimize explosion and climate risks. Similar operations and monitoring procedures are applicable
to other components such as composting, Materials Recovery Facility and other processing centers.
Furthermore, the Eco-Center’s expenses and income should be fully accounted to assess the financial
viability of the undertaking and allow for the identification of areas that have to be improved.

6 Closure and aftercare

Even in the initial stages of planning, closure and post-closure plans have to be considered.
RA 9003 emphasizes the importance of this step in order to avoid mere abandonment of the
site after the end of its service life. It is thus necessary to identify after-use applications to
guide the authorities in implementing after care measures.

39
 Eco-Centers Overview of phases of establishment

Eco-Centers
Main costs estimates
Indicative costs for establishing an integrated Eco-Center vary from city to city. Budgetary
requirements depend on local government size, served population, expanse of the facility and
the choice of technological components to comprise the Eco-Center. The facility’s lifetime and
effectiveness can be maximized by the commitment of the local government and its constituents
to enhance resource recovery rates. As shown in Table 2, each local government has the option to
modify the design criteria based on its capability to operate and finance the facility. Based on the
experiences of pilot local governments in the Visayas, the financial requirements that correspond to
adopted technical specifications are summarized in the table below.

Table 2: Summary of Eco-Center capacities and corresponding investment requirements

Design Criteria Bais City San Carlos City Bawayan City Ormoc City
Population > 75,000 > 130,000 > 110,000 < 180,000
(2007)
Eco-Center
Year established 2003 2007 2010 2012
Total land area 12.5 hectares 5 hectares 27 hectares 32 hectares
Features and components • Clay-lined • Clay-lined • Clay-lined • High-density
sanitary landfill, sanitary landfill, sanitary landfill, polyethylene-
materials recovery Gravity materials materials lined sanitary
facility building, recovery facility, recovery facility, landfill, materials
composting, composting, composting, recovery facility
leachate facility, leachate facility leacheate building,
rainwater facility, composting,
harvesting tank septic sludge leachate facility
management
Capitalization excluding 7.8 million 8.4 million 25.5 million 45.5 million
land and heavy equipment
(in PhP)
Total capitalization 21 million 9.8 million 50 million 55 million
(in PhP)
Sanitary Landfill
Total land area 4 hectares 3 hectares 8 hectares 5.7 hectares
Sanitary landfill Cell No. 1
• Developed area • 0.80 hectares* • 0.66 hectares • 1 hectare • 1.8 hectares
• Fill height • 8 meters • 8 meters • 4.5 meters • 8 meters
• Planned lifespan • 10 years* • 10 years • 18 years • 10 years

* The Bais City Eco-Center’s sanitary landfill Cell No. 1 (Area=0.32 hectares) has already been used up and closed. The data
provided for sanitary landfill area and lifespan reflect the sum of sanitary landfill Cells Nos. 1 and 2.

40
Eco-Centers
Results • Lessons learned and success factors

41
Eco-Centers Results

Eco-Centers
Results

Local governments are able to safely treat and dispose of unavoidable

residual wastes within the legally mandated standards
Closure and rehabilitation of existing dumpsites and the establishment
and operation of sanitary landfills
With Eco-Centers, most local governments have fully complied with
these requirements. Bais, San Carlos, Bayawan and Sipalay have all
been operating their sanitary landfills, thereby allowing them to fully
close and rehabilitate their previously used dumpsites. Ormoc opened
and inaugurated its sanitary landfill end at the of 2012, and Iloilo City
would soon follow suit.
Through the use of appropriate technologies and the reasonable
capitalization of Eco-Centers, more local governments could be
inspired to establish sanitary landfills and finally close their dumpsites.
This goal specifically contributes to the national targets of the Philippine
Development Plan, NSWMS and NFSCC.

Waste diverted away from disposal sites to create income

RA 9003 also requires local governments to achieve at least 25% waste
diversion rates. Waste diversion can be accomplished through reuse,
recycling, composting and other resource recovery activities.

High waste diversion rates

With materials recovery and composting facilities installed at Eco-
Centers, local governments were able to reach these targets. Latest data
from 2011 revealed that Bais and Iloilo have both reached 26% waste
diversion rates while San Carlos and Bayawan reported achieving way
past the target: 64% and 77%, respectively.

Income from recycling and composting

Income can be generated from the sale of compost, recyclable materials
or alternative fuels and raw materials for cement kilns. For example,
San Carlos City has earned a total of PhP1.37 million from 2006 to
2011 from fees, sales and cash awards.
 Eco-Centers Results

Multiple recognition for improved Solid Waste Management

service received by San Carlos City
San Carlos City’s exemplary Solid Waste Management
implementation has been recognized by various local, regional,
national and international award-giving bodies. Such awards were:
Gold medal for UNEP-endorsed Most Livable City in the
World (LIVCOM) (2011)
DILG’s Most Outstanding Local Government Unit Award for
Environmental Management (2009, 2010, 2011)
Promoted to Hall of Fame by Negros Occidental Province in
its annual Search for Model Solid Waste Management Board
(2011)
“Best Public Sector Projects Award”- awarded by the Regional
Development Council (2009)
Local Government Unit Champion in the National Zero
Basura Olympics, awarded by the NSWMC (2009)

43
 Eco-Centers Results

Pay-as-you-throw schemes and environmental fees from business

permits implemented to enhance cost recovery
In 2011, Bayawan City has earned a total of PhP1.4 million from its
waste sticker system and septage management services.
In 2011, Iloilo City collected PhP28.1 million against their PhP100
million annual Solid Waste Management budget. Recent data also
show promising results for the city since as they have already earned
PhP24.8 million from January to June 2012 alone.

Nutrient recovery and organic agriculture for biodegradables

Fertilizers or soil conditioners for organic agriculture applications
made from proper composting methods and techniques
To demonstrate its effectiveness and enhance its utilization, most local
governments initially distributed this for free. Once the market was
captured, cost recovery through the sale of compost was implemented.

All partner local governments have existing composting facilities in

their Eco-Centers
Some use boxes, beds or windrows to stabilize the organic matter from
bio-wastes. But further enhancement using the vermicomposting
technique proved to yield the best quality product. Furthermore,
source-separated biodegradables were still found to be the best
substrates for composting.

Fairer system for waste pickers

Empowered vulnerable groups and marginalized sectors
Waste pickers in Iloilo City used to work in harsh conditions under
the sun and rain. The city Materials Recovery Facility provides them
not only with shade but also with equipment that enhances materials
recovery. The resulting in-house system at the Materials Recovery
Facility was a result of dialogues between city government officials and
the waste reclaimers.
In San Carlos, some of the same waste pickers at the former city dumpsite
were integrated and directly employed by the local government to
manage the Eco-Center or as part of the waste collection team, thereby
providing them with a regular income source.
Equal and better opportunities were made available at organized work
places, especially benefitting women.
The Uswag Calahunan Livelihood Association, incorporated members
trained on entrepreneurship and alternative sources of income such
as recycled bag making, composting and green charcoal briquetting
and has entered into legal contracts with Holcim for alternative fuel
and raw materials, and with the export market for recycled bags and
accessories.

44
Eco-Centers
Lessons learned and success factors

The overall planning and implementation steps involved in the establishment of Eco-Centers with
minimum requirements for clay-lined sanitary landfill cells, gravity-type material recovery facility
and composting facilities have been proven to be technically and financially feasible. In fact, two of
these Eco-Centers are in full operation and sustained for more than six and nine years, respectively.
The fact that the product has been replicated by other local governments with varying levels of
assistance from GIZ has demonstrated its applicability in the Philippine setting.

The participation of the community and the integration of informal waste pickers have been
identified as integral elements to include during the planning and implementation stages. The
impact of the system in terms of waste reduction, resource recovery, and leachate and methane
avoidance has likewise contributed to the mitigation of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions,
and thus, climate risks.

Flexibility of the Eco-Center model in the Philippine setting

Based on the results of the existing demonstration projects, the pilot cities were able to select the
components and innovations to be incorporated in their Eco-Centers. Decisions were mainly based
on the local government’s financial capability and technical capacity to operate and maintain the
facility in the long run. The choice of additional features also depended on the policies and priorities
of each local government, which were usually customized with local socio-economic, geographical
and climatic conditions of the area.

The Eco-Center model has already been successfully demonstrated in cities where residual waste
generation rates fall between 15 and 75 tons per day. There are only a handful of local governments
above the 75 tons-per-day range, but given its flexibility, much bigger cities could modify its

45
 Eco-Centers Lessons learned and success factors

conceptual design to incorporate more efficient approaches and technologies. However, the majority
of municipalities in the Philippines are small, and the best option for them is to encourage alliances
or clusters to establish shared Eco-Centers.

Improved sense of ownership and accountability

The establishment of Eco-Centers emphasizes the importance of capacity building and more
meaningful collaboration with local government officials and staff. In every step of development,
local government decision-makers and technical personnel had been involved in the project – from
its conceptualization stages to the construction and operation of the facility. This ensures that the
Eco-Center managers themselves understand the nooks and bends of the facility, thereby enabling
them to troubleshoot problems when they arise. This is an alternative to the “turnkey” approach,
where a facility is handed over to operators’ lock, stock and barrel, which could only work when
proper operator training is effectively carried out.

Open windows of opportunity for replication

GIZ’s contributions focused on capacity building and technical advisory services. Financing is solely
borne by partner local governments, be it from their own budget or with supporting financing from
KfW or other banks. Thus, this does not limit any local government from establishing their own
facilities given the proper training and advice from experts. The National Solid Waste Management
Commission, Regional Ecology Centers, DENR-EMB, the academe and the private sector are
also in the position to inspire replication. Many other cities, municipalities or municipal alliances
have already been working on it. Sipalay City is one of those that did it with limited guidance and
mentoring extended by GIZ, as well as the cities of San Carlos and Bayawan. Other cities in Negros
Occidental were also inspired not by foreign assistance, but by their active Provincial Solid Waste
Management Board.

46
 Eco-Centers Lessons learned and success factors

Holistic approach
All local chief executives, legislators and decision-makers acknowledge that Solid Waste Management
is a basic service that the local government has to deliver. It has political implications as waste
management benefits all levels of society, all the way down to the household level. Thus, the system,
particularly the waste collection aspect, is very “visible” to the community. Every constituent, tourist
or business establishment expects waste to be taken from them on a regular basis.

Although waste processing and disposal facilities are “isolated” from the eyes of the voting
population, what most local governments fail to realize is that without these facilities, the entire
Solid Waste Management may not work efficiently, consistently and on a long-term basis. Eco-
Centers are designed to accommodate such materials and to process it safely. Local governments
also realize that Eco-Centers can serve as effective demonstration facilities to show how the entire
Solid Waste Management system works, thereby engaging the public to support waste segregation
and cost recovery.

Political will and top management commitment

The implementation of local Solid Waste Management programs is fundamentally based on the
need to comply with RA 9003 and other relevant regulations. However, the success of such an
undertaking requires more than mere compliance. Initiatives can only be started and later sustained
with the recognition of its benefits, particularly by local government officials and personnel, and
local NGOs. Like any other public infrastructure project, Eco-Centers have to compete with other
priorities of the local governments. Placing it on the priority list, including the institutionalization
of a dedicated Solid Waste Management Office, is not a difficult task. It entails the top management’s
appreciation of its value to the local economy, environment and the community at large.

47
ANNEXES
 Annex 1: Constructed Eco-Centers as viewed from GoogleEarthTM

The Eco-Centers established in the Visayas can be viewed using GoogleEarthTM albeit from different
available imagery dates. The figures below show images from Bayawan City Waste Management and Eco-
Center (as of Aug 2009), San Carlos City Eco-Center (as of Dec 2009), Ormoc City Eco-waste Center (as
of April 2011) and Sipalay City Eco-Center (Apr 2010).

50
Annex 2: Publications and case studies
Throughout the course of pilot-testing and replicating the concept of integrated waste management eco-centers,
various sub-knowledge products have been properly documented and developed jointly by GIZ, DENR-EMB
and LGU partners. Manuscripts may be downloaded from www.swm4lgus.net or www.enrdph.org. These are:

Publication: “Experiences with establishment and operation of waste management and recycling center in Bais
City” by J. Paul, M. Buquiran and E. Libradilla.
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PD2_Sardinia2009_Landfill-RecyclingCenterExperiencesBaisCity.pdf

Publication: “Increase of bio-waste recovery with low-cost technologies in San Carlos City” by J. Paul, K.
Hanuschke, L. Sanchez and A. Batomalaque
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PB3_Orbit2012_BiowasteRecoverySanCarlosCity.pdf

Publication: “Planning, establishment and operation of a waste management and ecology centre including a
sanitary landfill in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental” by J. Paul, J. Boorsma and U. Lange. http://www.landfill-
technology.de/

Publication with Poster: “Establishment of an Eco-Waste Center in Ormoc City, Leyte” by M. Fumar, A.
Lemke and J. Paul.
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PD6_ICSW-HK2011_WasteManagementEcoCenterOrmocCity.pdf
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PD6_ICSW-HK2011_
WasteManagementEcoCenterOrmocCityPOSTER.pdf

Paper: “The informal recycling market in Ormoc City: Options to enhance resources recovery and reduce GHG
emissions” by K. Hetz, J. Paul, J.C. Alfaro and A. Lemke
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PC9_ICSW-HK2011_InformalSectorRecyclingMarketOrmocCity.pdf

Paper: “Testing of briquette production for household use by informal waste workers in Iloilo City”
by A.R.D. Romallosa, K.J.C. Hornada, N. Ravena and J. Paul
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/km_tools/PC8_ICSW-HK2011_
BriquettesHouseholdUseInformalSectorIloiloCity.pdf

Case Study: “Maasin City experience in sanitary landfill site selection”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/swm_initiatives/I-M-001-Maasin_SLF_SiteID.pdf

Case Study: “Ormoc City experience in sanitary landfill construction”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/swm_initiatives/I-O-004-Ormoc_SLF_Construction.pdf

Case Study: “San Carlos City experience in Eco-Center establishment and operation”
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/swm_initiatives/I-C-401-SanCarlos_EcoCenter_GIZ-SS.pdf

Case Study: “Bayawan City experience in Eco-Center establishment and operation”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/swm_initiatives/I-B-401-Bayawan_WMC_GIZ-SS.pdf

Case Study: “Bais and Ormoc City experience in pilot-testing eco-efficient soil cover”
http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/swm_initiatives/I-O-005-Ormoc-Bais_Eco-Efficient_Cover.pdf

Procedural flow (brochure): “How to establish Eco-Centers with Sanitary Landfill”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/ecology_centers/REC_08/REC8-PFS05_SLF-Establishment.pdf

Procedural flow (brochure): “EMB flowchart: environmental compliance certificate”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/ecology_centers/REC_08/REC8-PFS05b_EMB_ECCApplication.pdf

Procedural flow (brochure): “MGB flowchart: hydro-geological site assessment”

http://www.swm4lgus.net/files/ecology_centers/REC_08/REC8-PFS05a_MGBGeoAssessmentSLFSites.pdf

51
 Annex 3: Diploma on ERMAT-SWM at CPU
College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences (CARES)
Central Philippine University (CPU), Jaro, Iloilo City
Tel. No.: +63(0)33-3291971 local 1071/1096

GIZ has further collaborated with CPU to develop an SWM curriculum to ensure that there will be a
permanent venue for developing the capacities of existing and future SWM practitioners by a qualified
institution. The first batch of 25 students enrolled during academic year 2012-2013.

The Diploma Program in Environmental Resource Management and Technologies major in Solid Waste
Management (ERMAT-SWM) is comprised of seven (7) courses. Under this program, two certificates may
be earned. The Diploma can only be conferred if the student is able to finish the two Certificates, including
the enrollment and submission of a project study chosen by him/her.

Course Title Description

Certification in Environmental Planning and Socio-Economics

ERM-SWM 111 This course presents the principles of integrated SWM systems and its impact on environment
(Environmental such as the water cycle and climate change and introduces the legal framework in the
Principles Philippines. Furthermore, it discusses the different possibilities in data and knowledge
and Legal management for later generations.
Framework)
ERM-SWM 112 This course discusses the needed participation in SWM of all stakeholders. It explores a range
(Environmental of possibilities of financing SWM programs through carbon markets, PPP, IWS integration and
Socio- community participation. It also discusses the benefits of social marketing for stakeholders
Economics) and the economy.
ERM-SWM 113 This course delves into the various steps in environmental planning processes and product
(Environmental life cycle assessment to reduce the impacts of solid waste on health, safety and environment
Planning & as well as to diminish recurrent costs of building, operating and maintaining SWM programs
Project Mgt.) and its facilities.

Certificate in Environmental Management and Technology

ERM-SWM 121 This course presents the principles of Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) Systems.
(Environmental It will give an overview on the various technologies and concepts of recycling, composting,
Principles & processing of waste resources and treating of special waste and residual waste prior to
Resource Mgt. final disposal. The course focuses on developing countries in general and the Philippines in
Concepts) particular.

ERM-SWM This course explores material recovery process at its source as basis for environmentally
122 (Waste sound resource management and recycling. It introduces the techniques, equipment and
Collection, facilities used in storage, transfer and transport, segregation and recovery as well as safe
Processing and disposal applying the basics of environmental chemistry and hydrobiology. The course also
Monitoring) discusses the integration of environmental monitoring and emissions accounting.

ERM-SWM This course focuses on the treatment of residual waste and its impact on the environment. It
123 (Sanitary discusses the multi-barrier system of environmentally-sound disposal facilities, site selection,
Landfill hydro-geological investigation, construction of sanitary landfill and rehabilitation of final
Technology) disposal facilities.

Project Study

ERM-SWM 124 This is the final requirement for the conferment of the degree. The topic is chosen by the
(Project Study) student depending on his/her academic background, field of expertise or field he/she would
want to concentrate later on.

52
Annex 4: Policy proposals to NSWMC
To facilitate policy upscaling and replication by other LGUs in the Philippines, GIZ-AHT SWM4LGUs
has developed the following guidelines in consultation with NSWMC, DENR-EMB and LGU project
partners. Supplemental national directives are necessary to ensure standardized approaches in planning,
construction, operation and monitoring Eco-Centers. Policy proposals that have relevance to Eco-Center
establishment are as follows:

Title of Guidelines Description / Rationale Status as of October 2012

Modified guidelines 1. The country already has existing guidelines Underwent a series of NSWMC-TWG reviews
on site identification on the proper site selection of landfills and expert’s meetings; Finally endorsed for
criteria and suitability such as DAO 1998-50 and RA 9003 and adoption as NSWMC Resolution on June 29,
assessment its IRR, DAO 2001-34. However, there are 2012.
procedure for sanitary criteria that are unclear and sometimes
landfills conflicting. The proposed guidelines
intend to harmonize site identification
criteria and selection procedures,
including the climate-proofing of these
SWM infrastructures. Latest draft version
available at http://www.swm4lgus.net/
files/news/N025-EndorsedGuidelinesSLFSi
teSelection.pdf

SWM training course A standardized training module needs to be Already adopted as NSWMC Resolution No.
and accreditation of developed by NSWMC, through the National 36, series of 2009; Implementing rules and
experts (Proposed Ecology Center (NEC) consistent with the regulations in the form of DAO is currently
SWM training course) provisions of RA 9003 in the conduct of being developed.
training programs designed for accreditation
as SWM experts. It is also proposed that
post-training evaluation or competitive
examination be institutionalized to accredit
SWM professionals and practitioners. At
the same time, this training module has
been utilized by CPU in the development of
its diploma program on SWM.

Guidelines on landfill Section 42 of RA 9003 stipulates that, in Officially received by NSWMC Secretariat
gas monitoring and the operation of sanitary landfills, each site on September 24, 2012; First NSWMC-TWG
management operator shall maintain minimum operating review conducted on October 22, 2012.
requirements with respect to gas emissions.
The proposed guidelines provide by the
needed specifications for implementers
and regulators, since methane and carbon
dioxide are not covered by the Philippine
Clean Air Act of 1999. It contains standard
procedures for landfill gas monitoring as
well as occupational health and safety
measures. These guidelines also serve as
direct policy contribution of the waste
sector to the implementation of the Climate
Change Act.

53
 Proposal for a Compost produced from the biodegradable Officially received by NSWMC Secretariat
Philippine national fractions of municipal solid waste usually on September 24, 2012; To be consulted
standard on compost finds it difficult to enter the organic with NSWMC-TWG and DTI-BPS.
quality for small agriculture market. The proposed standard
municipal composting is a modification of DTI-Bureau of Product
plants Standards (BPS)’ national standard for
organic fertilizer. It provides a guide for
LGUs to consider and implement simple
characterization and quality control
approaches for input materials, processing
and finished products.

Directive on the Requirements for dumpsite and landfill Eco-efficient soil cover concept has
use of eco-efficient closure and rehabilitation are already already been introduced in the proposed
landfill cover embedded in RA 9003 and a related amendments to DAO 2006-09; Full
supplemental policy issuance in the form of guidelines officially received by NSWMC
DAO 2006-09. However, the mandated mode Secretariat on September 24, 2012 and to
of closure encourages full compaction of be reviewed for possible adoption.
landfill cover and collection of landfill
gases via gas vents; Landfill gas utilization
is not mandatory. In the context of climate
change mitigation, the proper application
of eco-efficient soil cover is specified. This
emerging approach for dumpsite closure
has already been proven to effectively
reduce or eliminate methane emissions
from smaller waste disposal facilities.

54
Deutsche Gesellschaft für
Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Registered offices
Bonn and Eschborn, Germany

2B PDCP Bank Center, V.A. Rufino corner L.P. Leviste Sts.

Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines

Contact
Dr. Walter Salzer
Program Director and Principal Advisor
Environment and Rural Development Program

Ursula Flossman-Klaus
Chief Advisor
Solid Waste Management for Local Government Units Project

Tel. +63 2 892 9051

Fax +62 2 892 3374
Email: [email protected]

www.enrdph.org
www.swm4lgus.net