DAVAO CITY — With its existing landfill nearing capacity and set for closure by October, the Davao City government is fast-tracking the completion of a new sanitary landfill in Barangay New Carmen, Tugbok District, as part of its push to modernize waste management and strengthen environmental protection.
The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) said the current landfill, which spans 11 hectares and sits adjacent to the new site, continues to receive all of the city’s solid waste. Davao City generates an average of 753 tons of garbage daily, underscoring the urgency of completing the new facility.
The upcoming sanitary landfill covers nine hectares, with six hectares dedicated to waste disposal operations. City officials said the project is being expedited to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any disruption in garbage collection and disposal once the old landfill is decommissioned.
As the city prepares for this major shift, interest from foreign investors is also gaining momentum. A delegation of Korean companies recently visited Davao City to explore potential environmental and energy projects, including a proposed biogas facility at the old landfill site.
The delegation was composed of executives and technical experts from ECOSCOREA, SMART E&A, Cheongwoo E&A, SSKK Solution, and Daijin Pump International, companies specializing in biogas treatment, power generation, water treatment, and environmental solutions.
Facilitated by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Korean group presented a proposal to conduct a feasibility study on capturing methane gas produced by decomposing waste at the old landfill. If proven viable, the project would convert methane into electricity that could be used by the city.
City officials said the proposed biogas project could significantly improve waste management practices while contributing to renewable energy generation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, positioning Davao City as a leader in sustainable urban development in Mindanao.
“This initiative is a win-win for the environment and for the city,” officials said, noting that harnessing methane from waste not only addresses pollution but also turns a major environmental challenge into a clean energy opportunity.
The dual push — fast-tracking the new sanitary landfill and exploring waste-to-energy solutions — reflects Davao City’s broader commitment to sustainable growth as it confronts the realities of rapid urbanization and rising waste generation.