Gina Pascual (center), Environmental Management Department head, receives EDC’s Seal of Approval from DENR Sec. Ramon JP Paje (right) and Environmental Management Bureau director Atty. Juan Miguel Cuna (left)The Leyte project site and the power subsidiary of Energy Development Corporation (EDC) were each given the Philippine Environment Partnership Program (PEPP) seal of approval by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The Leyte Geothermal Production Field (LGPF) and Green Core Geothermal Inc. (GCGI) were recognized for the implementation of various programs on pollution prevention and control, and environmental protection and management.

The DENR recognized the following green initiatives of LGPF and GCGI: toxicity reduction of cooling tower sludge, use of vertical discharge diffusers, the BINHI reforestation program, and enhancement of monitoring and environmental management systems.

EDC improved the sludge recovery procedures of the Unified Leyte power plants and reduced the concentration of impurities in the sludge so that the facility now meets or falls below the limits set by the DENR.

The vertical discharge diffuser is a pollution control equipment designed in LGPF that traps the steam released from geothermal wells for condensation and reinjection.

BINHI, the enhanced reforestation program started by EDC chairman emeritus Oscar M. Lopez in 2008 as a commitment to the Clinton Global Initiative, calls for the reforestation of 10,000 hectares of land in 10 years.

EDC and GCGI were awarded under the Track 1 category for proven or demonstrated superior environmental performance which requires sustained implementation of environmental management systems for at least three years. The award entitles EDC and GCGI to regulatory assistance, and financial and fiscal incentives.

The PEPP is the joint effort of government, industry and civil society to promote improved environmental management and performance of businesses.