Plastic Ban in Davao City Starts June 28

In yet another bold move like the Firecracker Ban and the No Spitting Ordinance, Davao City sets off to ban non-biodegradable plastics and styrofoam materials by June 28, 2012. City Environment and Natural Resources Office Chief Joseph Dominic Felizarta said this is in line with the ordinance on Ecological Solid Waste Management.

As a substitute, biodegradable plastics may be used. In fact, some supermarkets and stores are already using these bio-plastics as part of their respective initiatives to conserve the environment. More drastic measures currently being done by local establishments include the use of paper bags and cartons for packaging their goods.

As stipulated in the ordinance:

• First offense: P300 fine and attend a seminar on solid waste management
• Second offense: P500 fine or perform a five-day community service
• Third offense: P1,000 fine or perform a ten-day community service
• More than 3 offenses: Higher fine and jail time of up to six months

Let us give this new No Plastics ordinance a chance to grow. After all, it’s for the future of our environment.