Zero Waste program to be finalized in June

by Krystal Paco

Guam - In just a few months, island residents could see a stronger push for reducing, reusing, and recycling their waste. If another man's trash is another's treasure, the island has plenty to gain by implementing a zero waste program.

"The intent of this program is to reduce and minimize the amount of waste going into our landfill to increase the landfill service life," said Mark Calvo. After over two years of planning, the Military Buildup director says the draft will be finalized in June. "The draft plan lays out a phased approach to implementing a zero waste program for Guam and Phase I starts as soon as the plan is released in June and ends in 2015 and Phases II to IV take us to about 20 years."

aside from establishing a zero waste association to set policies for all related initiatives, phase one includes improving enforcement of existing litter control and illegal dumping laws, outreach programs, and implementing green policies GovGuam-wide. the following phases focus on developing reuse and processing facilities, implementing a green roadway pavement system and by 2025, making recommendations to improve the plan.

Looking ahead, Calvo admits the biggest challenge may be the upfront cost to the consumer. "The disposal process is less of a headache when an initiative like this is put in play might cost you a little bit on the end but the peace of mind of not having to worry about where you put this piece of property that's no longer needed back into the waste stream and it's also peace of mind for some form going to be recycled or reused," he said.

But there's plenty incentive for a push on zero waste. Aside from protecting the environment, the plan creates jobs, financial opportunities, and raw material for new products. For more information, visit OneGuam.gov.