Case Study: The Polluters Dilemma

Introduction: A small plastic manufacturing company is currently facing with the decision whether or not to spend money on new technology that will reduce the level of a particular toxin in the wastewater that flows out the back of the factory and into a lake. If the company will not act on this, and the emission levels stayed the same, the fish in the lakes and rivers in the area might soon have to be declared unsafe for human consumption. But the companys environmental compliance budget is tight which could jeopardize to show a profit this year if the new technology will be installed. However, if companies in the region do not engage in some self-regulation on this issue, the government may force companies to begin the new technology and require monthly emission level reports which would be expensive and time consuming.

Body of the Case Study a.) Problem a1. Level of a particular toxin in the wastewater that flows out the back of the factory and into a lake will affect the fish and become unsafe for consumption if levels stayed the same.

a2.

Companys budget is tight that could result to loss in operation this year if the new technology will be installed.

a3.

If companies in the region do not engage in some self-regulation on this issue, the government may force companies to begin the new technology and require monthly emission level reports.

b.) Analysis of Alternatives The problem on a particular toxin level in wastewater will be resolved if the company will buy the new technology and encourage other companies in the region to engage in some self-regulation. In order not to put into risk the companys financial position, alternative is to apply for a loan payable in five (5) years, more or less, depending on the companys capability to pay. With this, companys cash and expenses will not be greatly affected. Other

alternative solution is to delay the purchase of new technology while the budget is tight and save this years budget and allocate a bigger budget on the following year. With this, the company has ample time to prepare

sufficient fund for this project and slash off other departments budget if necessary to give priority for this. Fixing the problem without the participation of other companies in the region will not actually resolve the issue. This involves community and affects also the community. Other alternative solution is to organize private

companies especially those who contribute toxin in the wastewater to form a committee and create regulations among them to minimize and control the

spread of toxin.

Encourage and involve individuals to participate this

campaign by giving informative direction and guidance. With this collective effort, by companies and individuals in the region, there will be a great possibility that toxin is controlled.

c.) Recommended Solution While this years budget is tight that the company cannot afford yet to spend money on new technology that will reduce the level of a particular toxin and since this problem also involves the help of other companies, it is highly recommended to organize and form committee among private companies focusing on this issue. Create regulations and guidance that will help to

minimize and control the toxin. Set a target when to take effect the use of new technology for all involved companies. Finally, encourage and involve

individuals to participate this campaign by giving informative direction and guidance.

d.) Implementation Because this project involves other companies in the region, Ms. Jonica Gunson may ask the help of some government agencies to call for a business meeting. Invite representatives from the Local Government Unit, barangay

officials in affected barangays and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Office. Discuss to them the issue and the plan to organize a

committee among private companies to address this environmental concern.

To materialize this plan,

Ms. Gunson will create a specialized team in her

department to initiate the plan. Depending on the needs to tackle the issue, the meeting should be observed monthly. following concerns: 1.) Register this newly build-up organization to concern government agency for legality of its existence. 2.) Election of new set of officers. 3.) Create rules and regulations and guidance to address the environmental problem. 4.) Create fund raising campaign to support the sustainability of the organization and the project. The body should address the

e.) Results If the recommended solution will be implemented and realized, this plan will surely give benefits not just to the company but the whole society as well. Companys financial position will not be affected but the problem on the level of a particular toxin in the wastewater will be addressed. At the same time, the company has a good image in the society because of their advocacy and commitment for a clean environment project.