Authors

Sonnie A. Vedra

Author

Pablo P. Ocampo

Co-author

College of Science and Environment, Mindanao State University at Naawan, Naawan, Misamis Oriental 9023 Philippines
Animal Biology Division, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines

*Corresponding author: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Different concentrations, volume and quantity of liquid wastes are often neglected as part of the overall solid waste management program. As such, a descriptive study was done on the estimates of pollutants generated from domestic, agricultural and industrial activities undertaken in Mandulog River and its periphery. Interviews using survey questionnaires were conducted to 269 households representing the upstream, midstream and downstream portions of the river. Results showed an annual estimate of domestic pollutants accounted at 1.4 to 2.8 tons of detergent used in kitchen, 103 tons and 68.7 to 103 tons of powder and bar detergents, respectively, used in laundry activities, 1.8 to 3.7 tons of bath soaps, 335.7 to 504.6 L of shampoo, and 168.3 to 335.7 L of hair conditioners. In agriculture, there were 2,152 to 8,608 L of pesticide solution used, and 0.5 tons of synthetic fertilizer. Underestimated volume of eroded soils was discharged into the river system from quarry and mining activities. Given these volumes of wastes drained into the river system would mean a perception of relative water pollution problems. To this, the information shared, indigenous knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents gathered, in turn, have strengthened their capacity for implementing proactive means of conservation and management. This is based on their own concerted actions upon realizing the adverse impacts of pollution from their activities that could destroy their environment, their food sources and livelihood potentials.