Evaluation of the Implementation of Zero Plastic Policy In Lucena City

The number of business establishments in Lucena City are constantly increasing every year. These business sectors - one of the largest contributors to the volume of waste produced in the city next to households - are doing their part through waste reuse and reduction, creative innovations in their traditional packaging methods. The implementation of the zero plastic policy in the City of Lucena causes a big stir, not only in the business sector, vendors and consumers, but also in the citizenry in general. This study addressed the different reactions of the citizenry as well as to evaluate the impacts and the implementation of the zero waste ordinance of the city. This study used the quantitative and qualitative approach. Self- made survey questionnaire was administered to different sectors that focused on problems on solid wastes segregation and management and the level of success of the implementation of zero plastic policy in Lucena City. The study also involved the practices of business establishments on the use of plastic before and after implementation of “No Plastic Policy” and innovations they made to support the city ordinance. The study revealed that the implementation of the “no plastic policy” is highly and strictly implemented. However, its success is evident only on the regulation of the use of plastic bags as packaging materials for goods and commodities. The said policy lacks on the aspect of regular monitoring and preparation of quarterly report that will show the reduction on the volume of solid wastes as well as the solid waste characterization before and after no plastic policy was implemented.