Clark Development Corp regulates plastic, styro use

• Source:http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2661452675666/clark-development-corp-regulates-plastic-styro-use
• Friday, January 22, 2016

By Marie Joy L. Simpao (CLJD/MJLS-PIA 3)

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE (PIA) -- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has issued a Memorandum Circular which regulates the use of plastic, styrofoam, and other non-biodegradable products in all establishments and offices inside its freeport and special economic zone.

“Under the circular, a plastic (sando) bag may only be used as primary packaging material for wet goods excluding those that are already pre-contained in plastic wraps as part of the product’s packaging,” CDC said in a press statement.

Also regulated are plastics that form part of a product such as from the semiconductor and electronic facilities.

Biodegradable plastics and styrofoam ice chest, and insulators may be allowed provided a certification from the manufacturer of the said materials and sample product is submitted to CDC Environment Permits Department for approval prior to its use and disposed properly after usage.

Aside from the reduction in plastic and styrofoam use, the initiative also aims to promote use of eco bags or reusable bags made of coco cloths/katsa and woven bayong as alternative to plastic bags; and corn-based, fiber, pulp, biodegradable styrofoam, reusable food containers, and other similar materials as alternative to styrofoam.

CDC has set penalties for those who will not comply with the memorandum issued.

“For any person or individual, a fine of Php1,000 will be charged to the violator for the first offense; Php3,000 for the second offense; Php5,000 and community service for the third,” it added.

For business establishments, a fine of Php5,000 will be charged to the violator for the first offense; Php10,000 for the second offense; Php20,000 and revocation of Certificate of Registration or Business Permit for the third.

All stakeholders are given a period of four months upon the issuance of the memorandum to gradually phase out on their use as CDC is set to implement total plastic and styrofoam ban on April 21.