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

The COVID – 19 pandemic has altered the lives of 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 a comparative analysis of 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 in  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 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 who are involved during the post-COVID period. Lastly, issues in relation to  waste management are linked to the people’s way of living that evolves through time  and the continuous search for a better life. Solving waste management problems does  not only cover environmental concerns but also economic, social, and behavioral  concerns.