(January 9, 2012) - The start of 2012 proved to be bountiful for the Butuan City Government after receiving Php1.2 Million from the Department of Science and Technology. Said amount is intended for one (1) bioreactor unit which will be used to convert biodegradable waste into fertilizer, in support of the city’s Clean Ground, Zero Waste Program (CGZW).

DOST Caraga Regional Director Mr. Lyndo G. Villacorta personally handed over the check to City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. and CGZW Program Coordinator Ruth Jugao last January 6, 2012.

A bioreactor is a machine that grinds and converts biodegradable solid waste into compost, a good fertilizer for vegetable crops. Biodegradable waste includes spoiled/wilted vegetables, fruit peels, meat/fruit/vegetable trimmings, food leftovers, fish entrails/trimmings, leaves/twigs, and seeds, among others.

The Langihan Public Market Public is one of the major sources of biodegradable waste daily, as stated by Ms. Jugao. At present, biodegradable waste from the market are distributed to Barangays Ampayon and Bit-os for the vermiculture project.

Dr. Villacorta further said that he was glad that DOST was tapped to take part in strengthening the campaign on Solid Waste Management as part of the convergence efforts between the City Government and Regional Line Agencies for a more efficient public service to the people of Butuan City. - CMO-PIO 

City Mayor Jun Amante accepts the check worth Php1.2M from DOST-13 Regional Director Lyndo G. Villacorta