As sustainability becomes central to corporate responsibility, water and wastewater management have taken on critical importance. Businesses across industries are expected not only to comply with environmental regulations but to operate in ways that protect public health and preserve natural resources.

Responsible business conduct in this area reflects an organization’s ability to balance operational demands with long-term social and environmental impact. Companies have the opportunity to lead by example through water conservation strategies, proper sewerage planning, or safe septage treatment, with integrity, accountability, and foresight.

Why It Matters: The Financial and Social Risk of Neglect

Poor water and wastewater practices create significant risks, including:

Non-compliance with environmental regulations

 

Fines, penalties, and reputational damage

Long-term cost burdens due to inefficient systems

Environmental degradation that harms surrounding communities and ecosystems

Lower Operational Costs

through resource efficiency

Positive Brand Equity

as a socially responsible organization

Better Preparedness

for ESG disclosures and regulatory audits

Pillars of Responsible Management

• Water Management
• Sewerage Systems
• Septage Solutions

Conservation, monitoring, and efficient distribution are key. Businesses should:

• Conduct water audits to track usage and loss

• Install water-saving devices or recycling systems

• Source responsibly, particularly in water-stressed regions

Proper sewer design and maintenance protect communities and ecosystems. Companies must:

• Ensure separation between wastewater and stormwater systems

• Schedule regular system inspections and updates

• Partner with certified engineers and local government agencies for compliance

Safe treatment and disposal of domestic sludge from septic tanks is a growing concern. Responsible businesses should:

• Engage licensed haulers and treatment facilities

• Keep a registry of system locations and desludging schedules

• Support or adopt community-based septage programs where applicable

Industry Application

Sector and Responsible Practices:

Manufacturing

Closed-loop water systems, effluent treatment compliance

Real Estate

Proper sewerage connections, septic tank design, developer oversight

Hospitality

Greywater reuse, on-site septage management, water recycling

Retail Malls

Water-saving infrastructure, grease trap maintenance

Construction

On-site wastewater controls, temporary septage storage compliance

Aligning with Local Standards

Agencies such as the DENR, DOH, and Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) regulate water and sanitation systems. Key policies include:

Clean Water Act

(RA 9275)

Sanitation Code

of the Philippines 

Local Ordinances

on sewerage and septage plans (often through LGUs or MWSS)

Businesses that proactively align with these standards reduce compliance risk and are better prepared for sustainability reporting.

More than just an operational concern, responsible business conduct in water, sewerage, and septage management is a commitment to the communities and environments in which we operate. It reflects how an organization values long-term impact over short-term convenience.

 

True Sustainability starts with how we manage our most basic resources

Ready to align environmental practices with operational strategy?

Let's Move Forward

 

 

References

1. Republic Act No. 9275 – Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004

   • Framework for protecting water quality through proper wastewater management and pollution control
     

   • https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2004/ra_9275_2004.html

2. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

   • Implementing rules and guidelines on effluent standards, sewerage, and septage management

   • Official link: https://www.denr.gov.ph

3. Department of Health (DOH) – Sanitation Code of the Philippines

   • Guidelines on water supply, sewage disposal, and public health

   • Official link: https://doh.gov.ph

4. Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA)

   • Technical standards and best practices for local water districts and business operators

   • Official link: https://lwua.gov.ph

5. Metro Manila Septage and Sewerage Program (MMSSP) by MWSS

   • Local implementation of septage management and infrastructure coordination
     

   • Official link: https://mwss.gov.ph
     

6. World Health Organization (WHO)

   • Safe Management of Wastes from Health-care Activities

   • Global sanitation guidance relevant to industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and construction

   • https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241548564