The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas (DENR-EMB 7) has issued a stern warning against the improper extraction of fuel from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles using backyard burning methods, highlighting significant health and environmental dangers.
Growing Trend on Social Media Raises Alarms
In a recent press statement, the agency expressed deep concern over the increasing number of social media videos showcasing improvised "backyard mini-pyrolysis" setups. These videos demonstrate how individuals are attempting to extract fuel from plastic waste, a practice that has gained traction amid rising fuel costs.
Serious Health and Environmental Hazards Identified
DENR-EMB 7 strongly discourages these processes due to the potential release of harmful emissions. The agency specifically warned about Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), which are widely recognized as carcinogens capable of causing cancer. These toxic compounds can pose severe risks to both human health and the surrounding environment when released uncontrolled.
Understanding Pyrolysis in Controlled Settings
Pyrolysis, defined as the thermal decomposition of organic materials at high temperatures without oxygen, is a legitimate waste management technology. When conducted in controlled industrial environments, it can effectively convert plastic waste into valuable by-products, such as fuel and energy. However, the agency emphasized that backyard attempts lack the necessary safeguards to prevent hazardous emissions.
The bureau urges the public to avoid these dangerous practices and instead seek proper waste disposal methods to protect community well-being and ecological balance.
