Not business as usual in green push – climate agency
Credit to Author: Bella Cariaso| Date: Sat, 8 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0800
MANILA, Philippines — It cannot be business as usual as the Philippines targets 75 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, according to Climate Change Commission (CCC) chairman Robert Borje.
Borje underscored the need for green innovation as part of the country’s commitment in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
He added that the key sectors, including energy, transport, waste, industry and agriculture, are central to the country’s NDC Implementation Plan (NDCIP).
“The private and public sectors are crucial partners in this transformation. The shift to renewable energy, electric vehicles, smart cities and sustainable agriculture are all areas where we can advance,” Borje said during the 2025 Sustainability Forum: The Green Economies of Tomorrow held in Makati City on Jan. 31.
Key leaders from the private sector, government and international organizations participated in the forum, which focused on accelerating the transition to sustainable, low-carbon economies.
The event was organized by the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) in collaboration with the German embassy.
Borje underscored the need for strong public and private sector collaboration to drive investments in renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and green technologies.
He noted that green industries not only reduce emissions but also boost economic growth and job creation.
Borje also cited the importance of a just transition to a green economy, ensuring that workers and communities, especially those in vulnerable sectors, receive adequate support.
“This transition must be equitable, inclusive and resilient, leaving no one behind,” he added.
GPCCI president Marie Antoniette Mariano said the gathering presents an opportunity to foster collective action and develop effective solutions.
“This forum is a space for meaningful dialogue, alignment of strategies and strengthened partnerships to drive lasting impact,” Mariano said.
The forum also served as a platform to explore how the Philippines can align its climate policies with international commitments while also addressing local development priorities.
Borje highlighted that the Philippines’ updated NDC – set to be released this year – would reflect evolving priorities and emerging technologies, scaling up both adaptation and mitigation efforts.
He urged the private sector to collaborate with the CCC in advancing climate action through green and climate-smart initiatives, emphasizing that “while the journey will not be easy, collective efforts can make it possible.”