Nepal

Identification of POPs hotspots

1NEP   Identification of POPs Hotspot DDT Lindane   .pdf 588KB

Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists

This report outlines a POPs elimination and awareness campaign involving civil society, NGOs and the media, which focused on POPs hotspots in Nepal's vegetable growing areas/croplands. The activity was divided into two phases: 1) an inventory of "potatoes" sourced into the vegetable markets of Kathmandu, assessing supply and demand, identifying product sources (commercial farms, etc) and determining residual levels of DDT and Lindane (BHC); and 2) investigating identified DDT- and Lindane (BHC)-contaminated potato farms, collecting and analyzing soil samples for residual DDT and Lindane (BHC) and sharing the information with farmers, dealers, retailers, consumers and government agencies on the POPs implications for consumer health. Two reports were produced for phase 1 and 2, respectively. The key target for the awareness materials were environmental journalists working in print, radio and TV media, in addition to the aforementioned stakeholders.

Outputs:
Production to consumption analysis of POPs in potatoes in Nepal
Increased media attention on POPs
Two reports on Phases 1 and 2

Keywords:
Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); Obsolete pesticides; POPs hotspots; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Monitoring and assessment; DDT

Nepal

Public information and awareness campaign on POPs

2NEP   POPs Public Awareness in Nepal   .pdf 340KB

Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists

Though Nepal's population possesses a general awareness of environmental issues, the issue of POPs is very new. As a response, the Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ) initiated a national POPs-awareness campaign. The primary aims were to raise awareness and increase public participation in POPs elimination and reduction strategies. NEFEJ surveyed POPs storage hotspots, unearthing detailed information on types of POPs stored, conditions of storage and packaging. A video documentary (produced in the local Nepali language) which contained information on the impacts of POPs and recommendations for civil society strategies for eliminating POPs was produced and disseminated among the general public. The video has been seen as a valuable awareness vehicle on POPs and is now used and referred to widely by civil society groups as well as individuals, journalists and students.

Outputs:
Survey of obsolete POPs stockpiles/pesticide hotspots in Nepal
Publication and dissemination of POPs booklet
POPs video produced in local Nepali language

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; POPs hotspots; Obsolete pesticides; Inventories and data collection

Nepal

Country situation report on POPs in Nepal

3NEP   Nepal Country Situation Report   .pdf 375KB

Society for Human Rights, Environment, Law and Governance Activities (SHELGA)

There is little information on POPs in Nepal. Adequate information is a necessary for any further action on the issue. In light of this, SHELGA developed a country situation report, which describes the national POPs situation, provides information about known levels, harmful effects, laws and current/planned measures to address POPs, as well as possible alternatives. Issues addressed also include Convention ratification and enabling activities, country-specific information about POPs, sources and pollution pathways, and strategies and recommendations for eliminating POPs. The report is available in English and Nepali and is addressed to NGOs, academics and others with a public policy focus. It also acts as a useful reference document for NGOs to help with awareness raising, campaigns and preparations for a meaningful role in NIPs. The report highlights stockpiles awaiting disposal and also the challenge of controlling dioxins and furans emissions in absence of regulatory standards for operation of incinerators.

Outputs:
Country situation report available in English and Nepali

Keywords:
Country situation reports for contribution to NIP processes

Nepal

Governmental and public awareness-raising on POPs

4NEP   Gov and Public Awareness Raising on POPs   .pdf 378KB

Forum for Justice

Despite Nepal's Pesticides Acts and Regulations, pesticides and POPs-chemicals are still being used. A survey conducted by Entomology Division Khumaltar revealed that farmers still use POPs pesticides such as DDT, Endrin and Lindane (BHC). The banned pesticides, used for agriculture, poaching and fishing, are easily available in the market. The Forum for Justice took up the task of compiling and disseminating information on POPs, collected through literature and meetings with authorities to increase public awareness. Obsolete pesticides stockpile visits, a roundtable discussion with multiple stakeholders and development of a Nepali language POPs leaflet were all part of the awareness campaign. The aim of the leaflet and report is to help people at the grassroots level learn about POPs and their harmful health and environmental effects in order to help facilitate participation in developing POPs action plans through awareness and government/NGO cooperation to address POPs.

Outputs:
Nepali language POPs leaflet
Awareness campaign with obsolete stockpile visits, roundtable discussion and other initiatives

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising;Inventories and data collection; Obsolete pesticides; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management; DDT; Health and ecosystem impacts; New POPs.

Nepal

Production of IEC material on POPs and its dissemination through interaction programs

5NEP   Production of IEC Material in Nepal   .pdf 410KB>

Center for Public Health and Environment Development (CEPHED)

This report outlines CEPHED's efforts in producing and disseminating information, education and communication (IEC) material on POPs to increase awareness about pollution from incineration, obligations under the Stockholm Convention and POPs in general. The awareness activity resulted in the development of an extensive network among multiple stakeholders, a poster launch and interactive awareness-raising program that involved local authorities, medical practitioners, hospital staff, NGOs, CBOs, health departments, media and the general public, highlighting the harmful effects and the link between POPs and waste management, particularly open burning and incineration of bio-medical waste, encouraging use of alternatives to incineration technology.

Outputs:
Multi-stakeholder awareness campaign regarding POPs and harmful effects of open burning and incineration of bio-medical waste

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Waste management and POPs; Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); Alternatives to practices that use or generate POPs

Nepal

Global day of action on POPs in Nepal

Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists

7NEP   Nepal Global Day of Action Report   .pdf 69KB

The Pesticide Watch Group (PWG) of NEFEJ organized an interactive awareness program, "Battling POPs in Nepal" on April 22, 2005, on the occasion of the "Global Day of Action on POPs." Government, NGOs and media were invited to discuss strategies related to the disposal of stockpiled obsolete pesticides including POPs. The Campaign included a video feature, produced by NEFEJ, which provided information and insights on how obsolete POPs pesticides are stored and handled. The video also highlighted the urgency of taking immediate steps toward the elimination of POPs due to risks to the environment and to public health. Opinions and ideas were shared by participants at the end of the program regarding possible solutions to the national POPs problem.

Outputs:
Awareness campaign on the occasion of Global Day of Action
POPs video highlighting risks/strategies for stockpiled obsolete POPs pesticide disposal

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Obsolete pesticides; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management; Health and ecosystem impacts

Nepal

Public information and awareness-raising on unintentionally produced POPs from medical waste

8NEP   Public awareness on UPOPs in Nepal   .pdf 348KB

Pesticide Watch Group and Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists

The unintentional release of dioxins and furans is a major issue in Nepal. One of the major contributors of these POPs is the medical waste management and disposal practice. This study represents the first attempt in the country to estimate releases of unintentionally produced POPs such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/PCDF) from the hospital waste (medical waste) incinerators of Kathmandu valley and to raise awareness among the Kathmandu valley people on the health effects of unintentionally released POPs (PCDD/PCDF) for their reduction/elimination in order to comply with the Article 5, Annex C of the Stockholm Convention. After analyzing waste handling practices during surveys of 16 hospitals, the NGOs used the UNEP Toolkit to estimate the total PCDD/PCDF generated from medical waste (42.76 g TEQ/a). To complete the activity, the NGOs prepared awareness-raising materials on medical waste incinerators in the Kathmandu valley and their implications on the health of the exposed population.

Outputs:
Report including study of medical waste policies: public information and awareness-raising on unintentionally produced POPs from medical waste
Survey of medical waste handling practices at 16 hospitals
Public awareness-raising materials and campaign

Keywords:
Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); Waste management and POPs; Alternatives to practices that use or generate POPs; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising

Nepal

National level training and awareness workshop in Nepal

9NEP   National Workshop in Nepal   .pdf 373KB

Center for Public Health and Environment Development (CEPHED), Society for Human Rights, Environment, Law and Governance Activities (SHELGA) and Forum for Justice

Low-level awareness on POPs often results in practices that increase POPs levels. Civil society, if informed and empowered, can play a meaningful role in creating awareness and can even play a larger role in contributing to implementation of the Stockholm Convention. To tackle the issue, the following NGOs: CEPHED, Forum for Justice and SHELGA engaged with the POPs issue and took up an extensive awareness and training program for NGOs, Government and the media. The activity was successful and has even had a multiplier affect, with participating NGOs further working toward raising POPs awareness in their communities, highlighting risks to human health, the environment and the need for POPs elimination. Media is spreading the message among the wider population and localizing the issue through educated news reporting. Concerned government officials are also taking into account the efforts of stakeholders, leading to further linkages to ensure smooth implementation of POPs management activities.

Outputs:
Awareness and training program conducted for NGOs, government and media, with increased awareness achieved in all targeted stakeholder groups

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Policy and legislation

Nepal

Medical waste and POPs

10NEP   Med Waste and POPs in Nepal   .pdf 346KB

Center for Public Health and Environment Development (CEPHED)

Lack of on-site segregation and appropriate treatment of medical waste, coupled with open burning and use of inadequate incineration technologies, are rampant in most of the health care institutions in the urban centers of Nepal. This report documents CEPHED's study of health care institution waste management practices and their links to POPs emissions in Kathmandu, including dioxin and furan generation. The study covered all health care institutions that incinerate on-site generated medical waste. Through site visits and a questionnaire, it was found that most hospitals employ opening burning and dumping of medical waste, while primary segregation is rarely practiced. Ash from incinerators is commonly washed into the river or thrown in municipal mixed waste containers. The study also discovered a lack of regulatory standards for incinerators, coupled with lack of alternative measures and adequate awareness of the problem. Findings will be used to present data and encourage authorities to introduce effective regulatory mechanisms for disposal.

Outputs:
Study conducted of medical waste disposal practices in Kathmandu with emphasis on link to POPs and dioxin and furan emissions

Keywords:
Waste management and POPs; Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); Inventories and data collection; Policy and legislation; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Health and ecosystem impacts

Nigeria

Global day of action on POPs in Nigeria

1NIR   Global Day of Action in Nigeria   .pdf 478KB

Nigerian Environmental Society (NES)

NES in collaboration with its Environmental Protection and Awareness Clubs (EPACs), organized a "Youth awareness and media aggressive outdoor campaign. The main objective of the campaign was to create awareness among the media and youths based on the principle "Touch the Youths and You Touch the Parents" about POPs. The campaign was kicked off with a public lecture on "Dirty Dozen and the Nigerian Environment" presented by an invited Guest lecturer-Dr. Law Ezemonye. Recommendations of youth included rapid implementation of the Convention; inventory and assessment of contaminated sites; and networking for information exchange.

Outputs:
Communiqué on "Save Our Future from POPs" issued and circulated widely
Youth outreach campaign

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Youth

Nigeria

Report and stakeholders reflection workshop on the Nigerian POPs situation

2NIR   Stakeholder Workshop on POPs in Nigeria   .pdf 745KB

Friends of the Environment (FOTE)

FOTE, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos Zonal Office, organized a one-day National Workshop on March 9, 2006, on the theme "Stakeholders' Reflection on the Nigerian POPs Situation." The workshop was also attended by distinguished representatives, including Director of Pollution Control of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Comptroller of Environment, Federal Ministry of Environment and Head Lagos Zonal Office, Coordinator Diploma II Programme, Faculty of Education, University of Lagos, NES and UNIDO National Expert on POPs. The workshop came out with several resolutions including: increasing the speed of implementing the Convention; identifying alternatives to POPs; increased border security to prevent illegal traffic of POPs and other chemicals; more coordinated networking among stakeholders; carrying out a public awareness-raising campaign that includes local languages and rural areas; and effective coordination of all stakeholders to develop a national plan to reduce and eliminate POPs.

Outputs:
National workshop on POPs with NGOs and government officials
Recommendations for POPs reduction and implementation of the Convention

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising

Nigeria

Identification and control of POPs-contaminated sites in Lagos, South Western Nigeria and stakeholders' workshop

3NIR   POPs Hotspots Lago South western Nigeria   .pdf 3,704KB

Nigerian Environmental Society (NES)

The activity involved conducting a basic study and report on POPs-contaminated sites in Nigeria. POPs chemicals banned under the Stockholm Convention are spread in different stores and sites in Nigeria, and their use has been largely unregulated. The activity identified major sources of POPs as agriculture, energy production, municipal solid waste, atmospheric emissions and manufacturing, among others. It was found that out of the total number of respondents, only 18.4% have heard of POPs (as chemicals used for fishing, crop protection and pest destruction). Of the entire number sampled, only 6.4% know that their sources are manmade. About 6.4% know that they persist in their environment. Also 4.8% believe that they accumulate over time in animals and humans. Accordingly, 12% have heard and read that they cause injury and defects. The implication of the observation is that the awareness status of most of the people interviewed is low, and a massive awareness and enlightenment programme is imperative.

Outputs:
Base study of POPs-contaminated sites and sources
Survey of public awareness of POPs

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Inventories and data collection; POPs hotspots

Nigeria

Assessment of the Lagos Lagoon for POPs sources, types and impacts

4NIR   Lagos Lagoon and POPs   .pdf 794KB

Friends of the Environment (FOTE)

The activity aimed to assess the Lagos lagoon as a suspected POPs site receiving enormous wastewater from an estimated 2,000 significant industrial users, small industrial users, commercial establishments and domestic sources. The study revealed that 47.6% of the surveyed facilities had potentials to release POPs due to their activities, the greatest sources being the generation of dioxins and furans through uncontrolled incineration at dumpsites, including the use of polyvinylchloride (PVC) resins. The NGO recommended that in view of the enormous environmental, public health and economic burden of POPs especially in developing countries, it is imperative that NGOs, CBOs and governments develop the necessary legislation for the regulation and control of POPs reflecting the requirements of the Stockholm Convention, while making provision for effective enforcement.

Outputs:
Survey questionnaire on industrial practices surrounding the Lagos Lagoon
Report: Assessment of the Lagos Lagoon for POPs sources, types and impacts

Keywords:
Inventories and data collection; POPs hotspots; Waste management and POPs

Nigeria

Awareness-raising on socioeconomic effects of POPs in Nigeria

5NIR   Awareness on Socio Eco Effects POPs in Nigeria   .pdf 418KB

Nigerian Environmental Study/Action Team (NEST)

This awareness-raising workshop concerned the impacts and effects of POPs to human and environmental health. It was attended by 18 participants who learned the disastrous consequences of POPs and obsolete stockpiles of chemicals to health and environment. Topics included the Africa Stockpiles Programme, socioeconomic effects of POPs on environment and health, training needs, and the role of NGOs in the Convention. Participants included NGOs, university faculty from University College Hospital in Ibadan, and government officials. The workshop identified major challenges, including an administrative and legislative framework; need for synergy; enforcement; enlightenment and public education; and research to support advocacy.

Outputs:
Awareness-raising workshop with NGOs, government officials and university personnel

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising

Pakistan

IPEP South Asia Regional Hub committee meeting and skill-share for NGO awareness-raising

1PAK   South Asia Skill Share   .pdf 355KB

Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI)

A one-day Skill-Share Workshop on POPs for NGOs was organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) in collaboration with Toxics Link in Islamabad, Pakistan. The goal of the workshop, primarily targeted at civil society organizations from Pakistan and other South Asian countries, was to increase interest and networking on the POPs issue, enhance the capacity of civil society organizations to deal with POPs-related issues and allow them to play a more constructive role in the implementation of the Stockholm Convention. More than 20 organizations from Pakistan and other parts of South Asia benefited from the workshop. The First Regional Hub Committee meeting also took place at the same meeting and awareness activities have continued since.

Outputs:
One-day Civil Society Skill-Share Workshop and Hub Meeting on POPs
Increased interest and networking on POPs issue

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Policy and legislation

Pakistan

Physical verification, environmental and health impacts of a former DDT factory in North West Frontier Province, Pakistan

2PAK   DDT Factory Study in Pakistan   .pdf 1,327KB

Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI)

Given the adverse environmental and health impacts of DDT and POPs worldwide, SDPI conducted a study to examine the impacts of the Nowshera DDT factory operations over the years. The aim of the study was to raise public awareness about POPs and the Stockholm Convention, encourage the Government of Pakistan to employ necessary remedial clean-up measures and enhance the public's role in supporting the national implementation plan. The study included physical verification of the DDT factory site/warehouse, quantification of DDT and examination of contaminated area soil and water and blood DDT levels (especially in children) in the nearby population. The report, available in English, Urdu and Pashto languages (the latter two - languages of the Northwest Frontier Province), was discussed with local authorities, and a half-day workshop was also organized with representatives of district hospitals, educational institutions and other relevant provincial/district departments.

Outputs:
Study and examination of Nowshera DDT factory operations and POPs

Keywords:
DDT; Monitoring and assessment; Health and ecosystem impacts; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Youth; Inventories and data collection

Pakistan

Egg sampling for by-product POPs

3PAK   Pakistan_eggsreport   .pdf 599KB

Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI)

This report tracks the collection of samples of free-range chicken eggs from near a dumpsite in Peshawar. As part of a larger "Global Egg Study," eggs were tested for POPs at this POPs hotspot and dioxin levels were found to have levels close to the EU limit and above the newly proposed EU action level, with dioxin levels in Peshawar chicken eggs almost three times higher than background levels of these compounds in chicken eggs. Levels of DDT found in the samples were also more than four times higher than the EU limit DDT for eggs. Pakistan's egg study suggested that the cause of the high DDT and dioxin contamination in the eggs was the sampling site's proximity to the dump site, where mixed wastes, including ashes from medical waste incineration, and open burning, were found to be the most obvious contributors to the contamination. This study constitutes the first data about unintentionally formed POPs (U-POPs) in any food item from Pakistan.

Outputs:
First-of-a-kind study/analysis of POPs, dioxin and DDT in chicken eggs in Pakistan

Keywords:
POPs hotspots; Waste management and POPs; Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); DDT, Inventories and data collection; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Monitoring and assessment; Health and ecosystem impacts

Pakistan

Global day of action on POPs in Pakistan

4PAK   GDA in Pakistan   .pdf 398KB

Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI)

This report documents the workshop for local government-elected representatives that was organized by SDPI in Islamabad on April 21, 2005, on the occasion of "Earth Day" and the "Global Day of Action on POPs." At the event, environmental experts and academia provided data and encouraged local elected government representatives to help raise awareness among communities about the harmful effects of POPs and to develop necessary laws at the local level. Experts expressed concerns on the smuggling of banned chemicals into the country, which are a principle cause of POPs use. The workshop participants recommended a ban on open burning at dumpsites; use of DDT and household pesticides as well as measures such as leakage control for electricity transformers; consideration of alternative technologies to waste incineration and earliest possible ratification of Stockholm Convention.

Outputs:
Workshop for government representatives and media

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Policy and legislation; Waste management and POPs; DDT; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management

Palestine

Raising awareness, evaluation and assessment of POPs and its sources in the Gaza Strip

1PAL   Awareness and Sources of POPs in Gaza   .pdf 340KB

Green Peace Association

Agricultural areas near settlements in the Gaza Strip where pesticides have been used for decades constitute some of the most contaminated areas in Palestine. Sources show that pesticides have been used extensively in Gaza and the West Bank, with an estimated 400 tons in the Gaza Strip and 1,300 tons being used in the West Bank in 2000. With an uncontrolled market, chemical compounds have historically been imported without regulations or control. Toxic waste dumps and disposal are also problems. Emissions from three health care waste incineration plants in the Gaza Strip have never been monitored for dioxins or furans. This activity evaluated the use of POPs in agriculture; identified hotspots; cited the need for increased analysis, testing and monitoring; enhanced public awareness on the dangers of POPs and the importance of the Stockholm Convention.

Outputs:
Collection of data on POPs in the Palestinian Territories

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management; Inventories and data collection

Palestine

Country situation report on POPs in Palestine

2PAL   POPs Country Situation Gaza Strip   .pdf 408KB

Palestinian Friends Association

Heavy use of pesticides in agriculture has left its legacy in the Gaza Strip. Many of these substances have had severely negative impacts on the environment and public health. Large amounts of mixed solid waste plague the Gaza Strip, as do extensive open burning activities. This country situation report provides a brief socioeconomic, political and historical explanation of environmental regulation in Palestine. In addition to an analysis of the available environmental regulations, the report also cites the steps Palestine has taken to deal with POPs, including the bans that have been imposed on a number of chemicals listed in the Stockholm Convention. The report emphasizes the important role of NGOs in addressing the problem of POPs.

Outputs:
Country situation report on POPs in Palestine available in English

Keywords:
Country situation reports for contribution to NIP processes

Paraguay

Implementation of the Stockholm Convention in Paraguay: Participation of civil society in awareness-raising on POPs

1PAR   Awareness-raising on POPs in Paraguay   .pdf 358KB

Altervida

The activity highlights an awareness campaign undertaken by Altervida to broadcast information about POPs and the Stockholm Convention. A workshop was held with the participation of an IPEN expert. Additional workshops were conducted in communities, with the target audience being a number of NGOs and NGO networks. The audience also included stakeholders such as health care workers, university personnel and government officials working in agriculture, human ecology and municipal Government. As part of the campaign, a bilingual leaflet on POPs and the Stockholm Convention was produced in Spanish and Guaraní, the national Indigenous language. Other materials were distributed at the workshops including videos, CDs, web resources and information about citizen participation in the Stockholm Convention. As a result of the activities, Altervida was invited by the Government to be part of the National Coordination Committee to develop the NIP of the Stockholm Convention in Paraguay.

Outputs:
Multi-sector NGO workshops on POPs
Production of a Spanish- and Guaraní-language POPs/Stockholm Convention leaflet
Distribution of other materials such as videos, CDs and printed materials on POPs

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising;

Peru

Global week of action on POPs in Peru

1PER   Global Day of Action in Peru English   .pdf 33KB

1PER   Global Day of Action in Peru Spanish   .pdf 691KB

Red de Accion en Alternativas al uso de Agroquímicos (RAAA)

This report highlights activities conducted by RAAA as part of Peru's Global Week of Action on POPs. Activities included a press conference on April 22, 2005 in Huancayo, Junín, in coordination with the organization CEDEPAS, about the health and environmental impacts of POPs, as well as the problem of obsolete pesticide stockpiles. The conference was attended by numerous media, including several radio stations, newspapers and TV stations. On April 22, 2005 a video conference about POPs, the Stockholm Convention and Rotterdam Convention took place in the city of Arequipa at the Peruvian-North American Cultural Institute in coordination with the US Embassy and the University of Alas Peruanas, University Andina and National University of San Agustin. The conference was attended by 200 people. RAAA is an active participant in the National Coordination Committee of the Stockholm Convention in Peru.

Outputs:
POPs press conference with numerous media and university representatives present

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising;

Philippines

Monitoring community exposure to PCBs located at the Meralco Pasig Central Service Station

2PHI   PCBs at Meralco Pasig   .pdf 365KB

Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (AGHAM)

The project assessed the Meralco Pasig Central Service Station storage site containing about 14,000 liters of liquid PCBs and 5,000 cubic meters of PCB-contaminated soil. The facility borders the Pasig River and an urban poor community. AGHAM conducted soil, sediment and water sampling outside the facility. Unfortunately, low assay sensitivity preventing conclusive assessment of the area. Workers at the facility claimed that Meralco has no active program of informing its workers about the hazards of exposure to PCBs.

Outputs:
Sampling of soil, sediment and water
Analysis for nine PCB congeners
Interviews with local residents
Report: Monitoring community exposure to PCBs located at the Meralco Pasig Central Service Station

Keywords:
PCBs; Monitoring and assessment

Philippines

POPs environmental scanning and social investigation of toxically critical areas along Manila Bay

3PHI   Enviro Scanning Along Manila Bay   .pdf 379KB

Fisherfolk Against Toxics (PAMALAKAYA)

This project conducted a field investigation of POPs uses in select fishery waters which are considered critical areas along Manila Bay, Laguna Lake and Pasig River. The report notes the conversion of rice fields into fishponds. Approximately 30% of the workers said that chlordane, DDT, dieldrin, endrin and heptachlor were still used in farming areas. More than half occasionally use banned pesticides such as thiodan and chlordane in fishpond operation to clear grasses. Interviews with workers revealed health effects believed to be related to pesticide exposure. The results of the study were used for massive information dissemination, policy advocacy and lobbying toward legislative and other government measures on POPs, particularly in fishery waters, and other campaign activities intended to create huge public and government awareness on POPs and their various effects.

Outputs:
Interviews with 115 fishpond workers
Two workshops on POPs and pesticides attended by more than 125 fishpond workers and residents
Project Report-PAMALAKAYA Publication
Public information dissemination of project results to workers, residents and authorities

Keywords:
Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management; Health and ecosystem impacts; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising

Philippines

Country situation report on pesticide POPs in the Philippines

4PHI   Philippines Country Situation Report   .pdf 419KB

Pesticide Action Network Philippines

This project produced a country situation report on POPs pesticides in the Philippines. Interviews with key informants (both government and non-government bodies) were conducted, and relevant documents were gathered to review the existing situation regarding the status of POPs pesticides in the country; legislative and regulatory measures so far undertaken on POPs pesticides; existing inventory; and information on the import, distribution, use and disposal of POPs pesticides. The status of the country's implementation of the POPs treaty was examined, including the progress of the enabling activities to prepare the National Implementation Plan, the involvement of NGOs and other stakeholders, and public awareness on POPs and the Stockholm Convention. PAN Philippines conducted actual field visits and a limited survey (where POPs pesticides had been reported to be still in use or in stockpiles) using a structured questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group discussions to determine the profile of POPs pesticides in the countryside, including sales, use and possible stockpiles.

Outputs:
Country situation report on POPs pesticides

Keywords:
Country situation reports for contribution to NIP processes

Philippines

Global week of action on POPs in the Philippines

5PHI   Philippines Global Week of Action   .pdf 337KB

Ecowaste Coalition

The Ecological Waste Coalition of the Philippines and its partner groups commemorated a Global Week of Action on POPs on the eve of the first Conference of Parties (COP1) of the Stockholm Convention. Various activities were undertaken to push the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to turn away from processes that yield by-product POPs, and to inform and generate support from various stakeholders on non-incineration processes for managing municipal discards and health care wastes. Participating groups met government officials; organized a creative protest action; spread information using the radio, TV, Internet and newspapers; sponsored a public forum; and conducted a cleanup drive to build awareness and action on POPs and related concerns.

Outputs:
Newspaper and Internet articles
TV exposure

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Waste management and POPs

Philippines

Participatory action research in support of a community struggle against an incineration facility for health care waste

6PHI   Capacity Build Healthcare Waste Incineration   .pdf 349KB

Cavite Green Coalition and the Institute for Educational and Ecological Alternatives

The Cavite Green Coalition (CGC) generated necessary data to raise awareness about the dangers of incinerator plants and to work for the enforcement of the Clean Air Act in the context of a community campaign against a medical waste incinerator in Barangay Aguado, Trece Martires City, Philippines. The CGC, together with partner groups, participated in IPEN's egg sampling project, collected information on the social and political dimensions of the anti-incinerator campaign, packaged and disseminated information materials, and utilized the research results in dialogues and meetings with government and industry representatives. After receiving results of the egg-testing showing dioxin levels ten times higher than EU limits, the government authorities requested that the company submit to third-party testing of emission levels. When the company refused, the government cancelled their operating permit.

Outputs:
Informational materials
Citizens' petition with 8,000 signatures
Dissemination of information to community residents and government authorities
Stronger and wider support for the enforcement of the ban on waste incinerators under the Clean Air Act

Keywords:
Waste management and POPs; Monitoring and assessment; Alternatives to practices that use or generate POPs; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Policy and legislation

Philippines

Community health assessment in a POPs-contaminated community (Target Village, Sapang Bato, Angeles City)

7PHI   Health Assess in POPs Contam Community   .pdf 359KB

Peoples' Task Force on Bases Cleanup

The People's Task Force for Bases Cleanup (PTFBC) conducted a community health assessment in POPs-contaminated area in the former US military bases in the Philippines, which is inhabited by indigenous people called the Aetas. The project involved research using methods such as secondary/archival research, primary/baseline data collection, group discussion and interviews with key informants.

Outputs:
Health survey of communities surrounding PCB-contaminated military bases
Report: Community health assessment in a POPs-contaminated community (Target Village, Sapang Bato, Angeles City)

Keywords:
PCBs; Indigenous Peoples and POPs; Health and ecosystem impacts; Inventories and data collection; POPs hotspots

Philippines

POPs pesticides in a watershed area: Focus on endosulfan

8PHI   POPs Pesticides in Watershed Area   .pdf 374KB

Lakaba (Strength of Youth)

Lakaba conducted a survey on POPs and other pesticides in two watershed areas in Davao del Sur. Additionally, they identified an open dump area in Digos City, Davao del Sur, and they did a preliminary survey on households potentially exposed to toxic fumes coming from the constantly burning open dump. A household survey was also done among the communities potentially impacted by pesticides used, especially by endosulfan and other POPs pesticides. As part of their awareness raising activities, LAKABA participated in a seminar workshop for community health workers and leaders on Community Monitoring of POPs Pesticides and other pesticides during the No Pesticides Day. They also hung streamers alongside the main roads in Digos City, capital of Davao del Sur with slogans related to the No Pesticides Campaign, such as: "No To POPs Pesticides!, No to Agrochemical TNCs!, Stop Aerial Spraying!, Protect Our Watershed!, Work for Toxics Free Future!" LAKABA and another NGO, CAUSE DS, also printed T-shirts bearing some of the slogans. A photo exhibit was also held in the seminar venue showing pictures of the Bhopal incident and other photos on pesticide poisoning cases.

Outputs:
Six workshops and briefings with communities and Fisherfolk leaders
Streamers
T-shirts
Photo exhibit

Keywords:
Youth; Inventories and data collection; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management

Philippines

Participatory action research on POPs pesticides in a Philippine rural community

9PHI   Participatory Action Research in Philippines   .pdf 458KB

Resistance and Solidarity Against Agrochemical Transnational Corporations (RESIST) and Pesticide Action Network Philippines

The project focused on peasant communities to raise their knowledge of the dangers of using POPs pesticides. Aside from this, the project also increased the understanding of the people in their area about the present status of using the pesticides and their impact on people's livelihood. The project served as the jump off point of the farmers to organize themselves in order to strengthen their group in the province. Community groups were trained on action research, and subsequently collected data on POPs pesticide use from different sources. The study revealed poor awareness of POPs pesticides. Based on the data gathered, community action plans were developed, including regular discussion groups and continued research on POPs pesticides. The results of the program were shared with the general public through a seminar for farmers, NGOs and other organizations/institutions related to pesticide issues.

Outputs:
Forum and photo exhibit on pesticides in three communities
Developed research team with training of ten farmers
Field research

Keywords:
Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising; Pesticides, agriculture and integrated pest management

Philippines

Egg sampling for by-product POPs in chicken eggs

10PHI   Philippines_eggsreport   .pdf 646KB

Cavite Green Coalition, Ecowaste Coalition, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives and the Health Care Without Harm

Eggs from free-range chickens near an incinerator for health care waste in Barangay Aguado, Trece Martires City were collected by the participating groups and tested for dioxins, furans, PCBs and HCB as part of IPEN's global egg project. Results showed that levels of dioxin were nearly ten times higher than the limits set by the European Union. The project highlighted continuing sources of by-product POPs and reminded governments to remain vigilant in keeping the promise of the Stockholm Convention to reduce and eradicate these highly toxic chemicals. After receiving results of the egg testing, government authorities requested third-party testing of emission levels. When the company refused, the government cancelled their operating permit.

Outputs:
First-of-a-kind study/analysis of POPs, dioxin and HCB in chicken eggs in Philippines
Newspaper and Internet articles (English and Tagalog)
TV exposure

Keywords:
POPs hotspots; Unintentionally produced POPs (dioxins, furans, HCB, PCBs); Waste management and POPs; Inventories and data collection

Philippines

Ecological waste management demonstration project at the 23rd Southeast Asian Games to prevent and reduce wasting, dumping and burning

12PHI   Eco Waste Management at SEAG   .pdf 353KB

Ecowaste Coalition in cooperation with the Ayala Foundation, Cavite Green Coalition, Concerned Citizens Against Pollution, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, Greenpeace Southeast Asia, Mother Earth Foundation, Smokey Mountain Community, Soroptimist International of Makati City, and Zero Waste Philippines

The Ecological Waste Coalition initiated a waste prevention and reduction program at the 23rd Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) held in the Philippines from November 27, 2005, to December 5, 2005. At the core of this collaborative project with the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (PHILSOC) and other stakeholders was the implementation of an ecological discards management system at the different venues that reduced waste, preventing open dumping and burning, and conserved resources through recycling and composting, while providing supplementary income for marginalized families. At the huge opening and closing rites at the Rizal Park, for instance, the Coalition installed some 100 "Recycling Stations." The Coalition worked with the Games organizers and venues, with sport celebrities and the media in raising public awareness and support to POPs-reducing waste prevention measures.

Outputs:
Mainstreaming ecological waste management as a legitimate concern for sports bodies, fans and athletes
Nearly 600 kg of recyclable waste recovered and 1,275 kg of compostable waste diverted
Mobilization of more than 225 community and NGO volunteers through seven task force meetings
Press conference and 14 press releases
130 streamers with waste-free messages
Media attention by newspapers, Internet articles, TV and radio
Sport and showbiz personality endorsements

Keywords:
Waste management and POPs; Public information, education, capacity-building and awareness-raising