Operations and Waste Management of Slaughterhouses in the Province

This study was done to provide an overview of environmental and public health concerns in relation to the operations and waste management practices of slaughterhouses in the Laguna Province. An interview with slaughterhouse masters, meat inspectors or pollution officers in each slaughterhouse was accomplished using a standard survey form. Results revealed that only four (36.4%) of the eleven slaughterhouses in the province were accredited with the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), which implies that that the majority of the slaughterhouses in Laguna do not comply with the set standards for abattoir operations. Moreover, the nonaccredited establishments operate with substandard and outdated facilities and equipment. Wastewater treatment was absent in four (4) slaughterhouses. Notwithstanding the presence of wastewater lagoons in some establishments, further treatment of the effluent was found to be lacking. Solid wastes were not utilized into useful by-products. The generated waste water does not undergo treatment and purification prior to its disposal into the environment. The study shows the need for compliance with the set standards for operation by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) as well as strict implementation of the waste management programs in these establishments in order to provide wholesome and safe products for consumers in an environmentally acceptable manner.