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first session of the Lake Forum Series, which was held on 23 April
2004 at the Astoria Plaza in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, focused on
one of the most innovative and pioneering efforts in the use of
economic incentives to address environmental problems and issues - the
Environmental User's Fee System (EUFS).
The main paper on EUFS was presented and discussed by Mr. Ceasar
Natividad of the Laguna Lake Development Authority. Three
discussants (Engr. Aldrien Montalban of the Eco-Industrial Exchange
Network, Mr. Eliseo Baltazar of Ecosystems Research and
Development Bureau, and Dr. Ben Eusebio of Lasallian Institute
for the Environment) gave their respective insights on the EUFS
based on their individual/institution's experience and/or expertise.
A plenary discussion followed which gave the participants the
opportunity to share their insights, comments, and experiences on the
implementation of the EUFS.
There were two major points that should be considered as an outcome of
this Forum. The first is to pursue a continued discussion with
the industry sector on the EUFS since this bears an important
implication on its future implementation. The second is to
initiate discussion on the matter of setting water quality management
goals for water bodies such as the Laguna de Bay as the policy that
would be the basis for the overall lake management and conservation
efforts (including standard setting and other interventions).
Discussions on both aspects are expected to generate inputs that will
be useful in the crafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of
the Clean Water Act.
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