ZGE 4301
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Name / Group Name : ECO Date : 06 / 13 / 2025
Section : 1D
Activity 1
ARTICLE:
DENR: More infrastructure needed to curb plastic pollution
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized during
Environment and Natural Resources Day that the Philippines is one of the world’s top
contributors to plastic pollution. The article highlights:
She also noted plastic’s role in greenhouse gas
emissions and promoted science-based, united
action
DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga
called for increased infrastructure segregation
systems, recovery and recycling facilities to stop
plastic from leaking into the environment.
The country produces 61,000 metric tons of
solid waste daily, with 12–24% being plastic
SCIENTIFIC METHOD
1. IDENTIFY THE GENERAL TOPIC OF THE NEWS ARTICLE OR IDENTIFY
THE MAIN ARGUMENT.
Topic:
The article discusses the Philippine government’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution,
particularly through improving waste management infrastructure.
Mainargument:
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) asserts that the
country needs more infrastructure such as waste segregation systems, recycling
facilities, and material recovery structures to effectively control plastic pollution. It also
emphasizes the environmental and climate impact of plastic waste and the urgency for
unified, science-based action.
2. IDENTIFY AND EVALUATE THE EVIDENCES OR GATHERED.
Evidence Presented:
The Philippines generates around 61,000 metric tons of solid waste daily, with
12% to 24% being plastic.
The DENR identifies the lack of infrastructure as a key issue in managing plastic
waste.
Plastic contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, adding another layer to the
climate crisis.
Evaluation:
The data is consistent with previous studies and government statistics, lending
credibility to the article.
However, the lack of detailed sources or direct links to published data or scientific
studies in the article weakens the strength of evidence.
No specific case studies or pilot programs are mentioned to support claims that
new infrastructure reduces pollution.
3. WHAT ARE THE STRENGTH AND WEAKNESSES WITHIN THE ARTICLE?
Strengths:
Raises a timely and relevant environmental concern affecting public health and
ecosystems.
Cites authoritative sources like the DENR Secretary, providing institutional
support.
Highlights the link between plastic pollution and climate change, showing a
broader impact.
Weaknesses:
Lacks in-depth analysis or real-life examples (e.g., success stories of
implemented projects).
No mention of public participation, community education, or policy enforcement.
Limited data on regional differences or areas most affected by plastic pollution.
4. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS AND/OR LIMITATIONS OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN THE ARTICLE.
Benefits :
Reducing plastic waste would improve river and ocean health, benefiting marine
biodiversity.
Proper infrastructure could lead to job creation in the recycling and waste
management sectors.
Lower plastic pollution reduces flood risks caused by clogged waterways.
Climate benefits from reduced plastic production and waste burning.
Limitations:
Infrastructure development requires high costs and long-term investments.
Without behavioral change among citizens (e.g., proper waste segregation),
infrastructure alone is not enough.
Resistance from industries dependent on single-use plastics could slow down
policy implementation.
5. PROVIDE THE CONCLUSION OR THE SOLUTION.
Conclusion:
The article concludes that building proper infrastructure is key to reducing plastic
pollution, but also emphasizes that this must be part of a science-based, multi-sectoral
approach.
Suggested Solutions:
Invest in waste segregation and recycling systems at barangay and city levels.
Enforce plastic bans and encourage the use of sustainable alternatives.
Launch public education campaigns to promote responsible waste disposal.
Collaborate with the private sector and international partners for funding and
expertise.
Monitor and evaluate projects through data-driven methods to guide future
efforts.
References :
DENR: More infrastructure needed to curb plastic pollution. (n.d.). Philippine
News Agency, June 2025. [Link]
From Pollution to Solution: A global assessment of marine litter and plastic
pollution. (n.d.). UNEP - UN Environment Programme, Oct 2021.
[Link]
litter-and-plastic-pollution
Cariaso, B. (2023, August 5). Philippines produces 61,000 million metric tons of waste
daily. [Link].
[Link]
million-metric-tons-waste-daily
ZGE 4301
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Name / Group Name : ECO Date : 06 / 13 / 2025
Section : 1D
REFLECTION PAPER ON CASE STUDY: APO ISLAND
As a student, after reading this case study about Apo Island, it left a big impression on
us because of what they have accomplished, not only they restore the declining
situation of marine life on the island but also showed us how powerful community effort
and environmental science can be when combined. We're also amazed by how the
people of Apo Island, who were once struggling on the situation of marine life in the
island, were able to turn things around by working with scientists and embracing marine
conservation. The reason why we're amazed by this is because the people of Apo
Island accept the outsiders to help them and not let their pride take over, because not all
of the people who were strugglin can accept help and cooperate with the others
especially to outsiders or people they don't know because they are afraid of being used
or taken advantage of.
Before we read this case study we already know how damaging destructive fishing
methods like dynamite and cynaide fishing could be—not just for the fish but for the
entire ecosystem. What stood out to me most was how the villagers themselves made
the brave decision to set up a marine sanctuary and follow strict rules to protect it. It
wasn’t easy for them, but their sacrifices paid off. Fish populations returned, the
environment recovered, and their lives improved. I was also inspired by how the
community used education and science to guide their decisions. It gave me hope that
environmental problems can be solved when people are informed, involved, and
determined. Seeing how they found new opportunities—like tourism and education—
also made me realize that sustainability doesn’t mean giving things up, but rather
finding smarter and more balanced ways to live.
This case study reminded me that even small communities can make a big difference. It
encouraged me to think more seriously about how we treat the environment and how
we, our group as a student, can contribute to creating a more sustainable future.
References :
Cunningham, W.P. and M.A. Cunningham, 2013. Principles of Environmental Science; Inquiry
and Applications. 7th edition. NY: McGraw-Hill.
