October 27, 2023
Dear Lara Yvette A. MAGNO,
Greetings!
Thank you for your request dated Oct 13, 2023 12:02:47 AM under Executive Order No. 2 (s. 2016) on Freedom of Information in the Executive Branch.
Your Request
You asked for WATER HYACINTH FIBER.
Response to Request
Your FOI request is approved. I enclose a copy of the information you requested.
1. Status of textile waste in the Philippines
In the Philippines, a survey published from 2008-2013 showed approximately 1.61% of the total municipal solid waste is textile waste. This accounts for an estimated 267,711 tons of textile waste per year will be generated based on 16,628,026 tons of total municipal solid waste generation per year (Antiporda B.D. et al., National Solid Waste Management Status Report 2008-2018.). This is outdated data, and we are waiting for the next NSWM status report by DENR-NSWM this year (the NSWM status report is every 10 years).
The current solid waste management system in the Philippines is in accordance with RA 9003. Solid waste collected from residential or commercial sources is either transported to a disposal site or to a material recovery facility for treatment or segregation. However, post-consumer textile waste is not separated even if it is classified as recyclables. Currently, only biodegradable waste is separated and subjected to composting while paper/cardboard, plastics, metals, and glass are separated for recycling (Domingo, S. N., & Manejar, A. J. A. (2021). An analysis of regulatory policies on solid waste management in the Philippines: Ways forward (No. 2021-02).
2. How many Water Lilies loomed in Laguna Lake per the Annual Report?
As of now, 20% of the lake is loomed by water lilies for further specific information you can coordinate with Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) one of the attached agencies of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which is responsible for the preservation, development, and sustainability of Laguna de Bay and its 21 major tributary rivers.
3. Water hyacinth as a natural textile?
The stalks of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) are a viable natural source of alternative textile material, according to the Department of Science and Technology's Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI).
Researchers at PTRI are studying water hyacinth fibers are raw materials for the manufacture of clothing and home fabrics. Processing the fibers with polyester staples initially produced blended yarns with 20-35 percent water hyacinth component.
For a yarn count of 15 Ne suitable for apparel, blends of 80/20 and 65/35 of polyester/water hyacinth fibers were used. The same blends of polyester/water hyacinth fibers were used to get a yarn count of 10-12 Ne ideal for home textiles such as curtains, upholstery, table runners, napkins, bed cover, pillow case, and other items found at home.
In the Philippines, the proliferation of water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic nuisance, in freshwater bodies, such as lakes and ponds has led the researchers to study the plant's effective uses as a natural wastewater purifier and an indicator of the level of pollution in the water besides a natural source of fiber. (Arlene R. Obmerga, S&T Media Service, August 27, 2009).
4. Anahaw fiber
Anahaw fiber can be used also for different textile applications due to its high cellulose component of 67.96% which is higher than abaca with 59%, the higher the cellulose component the more it is suitable to be used as a textile raw material. Aside from textile application, it can also be a viable reinforcement for polymer composites.
5. Circular economy of natural textile fiber as a new alternative
Natural textile fiber emerges as a remarkable eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials. Its exceptional strength, durability, and biodegradability make it an appealing choice for textiles, home decor, and beyond. As consumers increasingly prioritize eco-conscious choices and embrace sustainable lifestyles, exploring the potential of natural textile fiber becomes a compelling option.
By natural textile fiber products as a new alternative, we actively contribute to waste reduction, support the circular economy, and play a part in reducing the environmental impact of our consumption patterns. As this natural and versatile material gains recognition in the market make conscious decisions to promote a greener planet.
6. List of facilities for natural textile fiber research and development facilities
The following are the Natural textile fiber innovation hubs established by the DOST-PTRI:
1. Natural Textile Fiber Processing Center – Taguig City
2. Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub – La Union
3. Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub – Cavite
4. Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub – Isabela
5. Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub – Apayao
7. Technology and machinery needed for the natural textile fiber research and production facility.
The institute cannot disclose this because the technology was owned/patented by the DOST-PTRI
8. Architectural users and activities for the proposed project (textile research and development facility)
The institute cannot disclose this because the technology was owned/patented by the DOST-PTRI
Your right to request a review
If you are unhappy with this response to your FOI request, you may ask us to carry out an internal review of the response by writing to Julius L. Leaño, Jr., Ph.D., at
[email protected]. Your review request should explain why you are dissatisfied with this response, and should be made within 15 calendar days from the date when you received this letter. We will complete the review and tell you the result within 30 calendar days from the date when we receive your review request.
If you are not satisfied with the result of the review, you then have the right to appeal to the Office of the President under Administrative Order No. 22 (s. 2011).
Kindly accomplish the attached DOST-PTRI: FOI Request Feedback Form using the link provided below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uNem_R55Qip7QKGBj_gNQNwUAUSAi8FdMxvKbYsJEts/edit
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Herson D. Dumaya Jr.
FOI Receiving Officer