DOST-NCR’s Innovation Forum Highlights Science-Based Climate Change Initiatives

“Today’s youth should take up the initiative to act towards a sustainable future against climate change. Do not leave it to the hands of adults, because tomorrow is yours to take care of.”

This was the challenge of De La Salle University Animo Labs Executive Director, Federico C. Gonzales, to the young people who attended the Climate Forward: Igniting Innovation for a Sustainable Future” last 13 September 2023 at the People’s Hall, SM Aura Tower, Taguig City as part of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in NCR.

A polarizing issue stretching across borders, the effects of climate change can be felt in every facet of our lives. As much as many individuals stand trying to shrug off the truth about this global problem, almost every industry and institution will have to employ a paradigm shift to address it.

A benchmark for local action on climate change adaptation and climate action, Quezon City’s Climate Change and Environmental Sustainabiity Head, Mr. Vincent Ferdinand Paul G. Vinarao shared the initiatives of the City to build climate resilience, pursue carbon neutrality, advance green economic development, and provide a livable and quality community for all through their Enhanced Local Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2050 (Enhanced LCCAP).

Mr. Gonzales of the De La Salle University Animo Labs further tackled the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Businesses, and further asserted that the need for sustainability reporting, covering the company’s direct energy purchase, internal process output, and upstream and downstream supply chains, has been expanding due to the global awareness of the ecological crisis.

Ms. Rachelle Anne L. Miranda, Project Development Officer under the Office of the DOST Secretary, further highlighted the innovations and technologies that have been developed by the various agencies of the Department including the GeoRiskPH and the HazardHunterPH. Ms. Miranda also discussed technologies for hazard early warning systems, water resource management and sanitation, energy and transportation, natural environment and agriculture, and investments in society.

Highlighting the need for multi-sectoral cooperation, Ms. Liezl Stuart Del Rosario, Policy Manager of Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas Foundation Inc. discussed the role of non-governmental organizations as climate catalysts. Ms. Karen Ann Hipol, Science Diplomacy Adviser of the British Embassy Manila also highlighted various international policies against climate change.

The forum brought together policymakers, business leaders, students, researchers, and faculty members, enabling further exchange and examination of plans and actions to confront climate change.

By: Emerson Enriquez, TOD