Numerous environmental regulations require businesses to comply. To check for compliance, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) requires businesses with potentially adverse environmental effects to submit a Quarterly Self-Monitoring Report (SMR). This report serves as a formal tool for tracking and documenting your organization’s environmental performance.
Read more to learn what a DENR Self-Monitoring Report is, its main components, and how to make one.
What is a DENR Self-Monitoring Report
According to Presidential Decree (PD) 1586, also known as the “Establishing an Environmental Impact Statement System,” no individual, partnership, or corporation may undertake or operate a project without first securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) issued by the President or an authorized representative.
Once the ECC is issued, the project proponent must comply with all the conditions stated in the certificate. One key requirement is the quarterly submission of a Self-Monitoring Report (SMR). The SMR documents all operational activities with an environmental impact and is a tool for monitoring compliance with existing environmental laws.
What are the DENR Self-Monitoring Report’s Requirements
Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 27, Series of 2003, and its Procedural Manual outline the requirements for preparing and submitting the Self-Monitoring Report (SMR). It is composed of six main modules:
- Module 1: General Information
Contains basic details about the company, including location, nature of operations, and contact information. - Module 2: RA 6969 – Hazardous Waste Management
Records the generation, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous wastes in compliance with RA 6969. - Module 3: PD 984 – Pollution Control Law
Tracks wastewater discharge, treatment processes, and effluent quality based on PD 984 requirements. - Module 4: RA 8749 – Clean Air Act
Details air emissions, air pollution control devices, and ambient air quality monitoring. - Module 5: Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) Status
Updates the status of the ECC, including compliance with stated conditions and environmental management plans. - Module 6: Other Relevant Information
Includes additional data such as solid waste management practices, environmental permits, and certifications.
Each module shall be filled out correctly and accurately based on the actual data gathered from the covered months of the quarter. The report shall be signed by the accredited Pollution Control Officer (PCO) and the operation’s owner and notarized. It will then be submitted to the respective DENR EMB Regional Office where the operation is located.
DENR representatives may conduct unannounced visits to verify a company’s compliance using the data provided in the SMR. The information in the report is thoroughly reviewed and validated. For ISO-certified companies, the certifying body also checks for environmental compliance. Any lapses or non-compliance may lead to violations, penalties, or operational closure.
How to Make a DENR Self-Monitoring Report
Creating a Self-Monitoring Report (SMR) for the DENR involves careful data collection and documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide :
- Assign a Pollution Control Officer (PCO): Ensure a certified PCO is designated to oversee environmental compliance and report preparation.
- Collect Environmental Data: Gather accurate and up-to-date records on emissions, wastewater, hazardous waste, air quality, and other relevant activities.
- Fill Out the SMR Modules:
- Module 1: General Information
- Module 2: Hazardous Waste (RA 6969)
- Module 3: Pollution Control (PD 984)
- Module 4: Air Pollution (RA 8749)
- Module 5: ECC Status
- Module 6: Other relevant data
- Ensure Accuracy: All entries must reflect actual conditions and be backed by monitoring results or logs.
- Have the Report Signed and Notarized: The SMR must be certified by the PCO and signed by the company head.
- Submit Quarterly: Submit the completed SMR to the nearest DENR-EMB office every quarter.
- Keep Copies: Maintain a copy for internal records and for use during audits or surprise inspections.
Proper SMR submission ensures compliance and helps protect your business from penalties and operational risks.
Are You Having Trouble Preparing Your DENR Quarterly Self-Monitoring Report?
Complying with environmental regulations in the Philippines can be complex and time-consuming. Preparing the DENR Quarterly Self-Monitoring Report (SMR) involves detailed documentation, strict deadlines, and compliance with numerous laws. Submitting an incomplete report or missing other legal requirements can result in hefty fines or even suspension of operations.
That’s where Triple i Consulting comes in. We have experts in environmental permitting and handling pollution cases who can assist you with your environmental compliance. Let us take care of the paperwork, so you can focus on what truly matters—running your business and reaching your financial goals.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experts:
- Fill out the form below
- Call us at: +63 (02) 8540-9623
- Send an email to: info@tripleiconsulting.com
