A Qualitative Analysis on Ecological Solid Waste Management within Brgy. Alicia, Quezon City Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

COVID – 19 pandemic has altered the lives of the people across the globe. Due to lockdowns and social distancing, the delivery of basic urban services was disrupted, including the disposal of solid wastes. As such, this research is conducted to: (1) Conduct comparative analysis on the solid wastes generated before and during the COVID-19 pandemic within Brgy. Alicia, Quezon City; (2) Identify the good practices being implemented at the barangay level; (3) Assess the possible gaps of the policies at the barangay/local level related to proper solid waste management in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; and (4) Formulate the recommendations for the effective waste management in Brgy. Alicia, Quezon City. The data gathered through interviews, fieldwork, and observations were analyzed and this study has found that an effective and efficient solid waste management is not only centered on technological advancements but also institutional, economic, environmental, and socio-cultural linkages to allow the whole system to work. Further, acknowledging the informal economy is a significant step towards the formation of a localized solid waste management policy in which the concerned stakeholders are highly participating. This interaction will create a purposeful dialogue among them to catalyze inclusive solid waste management and improve the lives and livelihoods of those that are involved during the post-COVID period. Lastly, issues in relation to waste management is linked to the people’s way of living that evolves through time and the continuous search for a better life. Solving waste management problems do not only cover environmental concerns but also economical, social, and behavioral concerns.