"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it." This quote by Robert Swan, an environmental activist, resonates with the need for everyone’s involvement in addressing the crisis we currently face. While there have been many advancements in sustainable development in recent years, the reality is that the pace of change isn’t enough to meet the challenges posed by climate change today.
The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change stated that limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is a global imperative to avoid catastrophic consequences. At the pace that the nations are going, it is projected that global warming will exceed the target limit by 2030, according to experts. This calls for far more than what is currently being achieved.
Currently, the Philippines is 92nd out of 166 countries in the Sustainable Development Goals Index and 90th out of 180 countries in the Global Sustainable Competitive Index. What is very alarming is Philippines’ being ranked as 1st in the World Risk Index, which highlights that it is the most disaster-prone country in the world today. These results beg the question: have we really done all we can in facing this global challenge?
As a nation, we must accelerate our efforts towards mitigation and adaptation. We already face the devastating impact of climate change today, with more frequent and intense natural disasters, rising sea levels, and turbulent weather conditions. It is way past the time for creating plans and blueprints; we need bold ambitions and tangible results.
Sustainability in Action
The recently held Annual Model Cities & Municipalities Forum & Awards of The Manila Times put the spotlight on the inspiring projects and initiatives of cities and municipalities across the Philippines. Local Government Units were recognized for their achievements in various categories, such as InfraInnovator, Emergency/Disaster Management Excellence, Eco-Friendly, Livelihood and Employment Centered, and Education Hub.
The awards demonstrated what can be achieved when there is clear direction and strong leadership. Recognizing these blueprints of good governance creates a ripple effect of positive impact throughout the country, inspiring other cities and municipalities. However, recognition is only the first step towards riding this wave of positive impact. It's crucial to support these initiatives and create an environment where these sustainability goals are a priority.
A Multi-faceted Effort
The recently concluded event also brought together industry leaders, government officials, and experts to discuss the challenges sustainable cities face from different perspectives.
I was one of the resource speakers of the forum, representing P&A Grant Thornton as its Chief Sustainability Officer. I focused on the path we must take towards climate resilience – transitioning to sustainable cities and communities. The other speakers highlighted the importance of flexible workplaces in promoting work-life balance and reducing carbon emissions, empowering and representing the informal sector, city planning and architecture that prioritizes walkability and green spaces, the use of data and science to inform decision-making and track progress, and sustainable tourism that promotes our natural resources and minimizes environmental impact.
These discussions highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach to sustainability and the importance of continued collaboration among the government, businesses, and communities. A united front and a holistic solution are needed to achieve real progress; after all, these goals cannot be met in isolation.
Overcoming Challenges and Accelerating Progress
The journey towards a sustainable future is filled with challenges. Lacking cooperation and collaboration among stakeholders, very insufficient funding, and outdated regulations and standards are some of the key barriers that hinder progress. It is essential to address these challenges immediately for us to meet our objectives and goals.
Our efforts must not only be focused on mitigation, such as the waste management and recycling initiatives and sustainable transportation. Rather, with the effects of global warming and pollution today, adaptation, such as emergency management measures, infrastructure upgrades, and biodiversity conservation, is equally important. Besides this, we must also consider initiatives that both mitigate and adapt, such as conservation of water and energy, investing in education and upskilling, and embracing nature-based solutions.
Our leaders must publicly commit to these initiatives to set a clear vision and secure support from us, the stakeholders, to drive both short-term and long-term transformational change. Achieving transformational change requires buy-in from various stakeholders, including government departments, businesses, community groups, and the public. The path forward calls for all hands-on-deck, so ensuring that action plans are inclusive is crucial.
To support these initiatives and transition, cities and municipalities must set evidence-based targets, prioritize high-impact actions, and effectively attract climate finance. We must monitor, evaluate, and report to see where we stand in our fight for sustainability.
Lastly, cities as well as municipalities are encouraged to use ISO Standards as the baseline, such as ISO 37120, ISO 37122, and ISO 37123, as they provide a framework for sustainable development. These standards highlight key factors cities and municipalities must focus on. Targeted actions are essential in accelerating progress and catching up with the goals we set.
Our Pathway to a Climate-Resilient Future
Cities are at the forefront in our fight for sustainability. Our path to a climate-resilient future begins at the ground level, with tailored strategies and responses based on their unique context, demographics, and environmental challenges. After all, there is no one-size-fits-all path for sustainable transformation.
With cities accounting for 60-80% of global energy consumption, producing 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and 70% of the global population projected to live in cities by 2050, their transition to climate resilience must happen sooner than later. This requires breaking down silos and integrating efforts across different areas.
The journey towards a sustainable future requires immediate action. Let’s continue the momentum brought by our model cities and address these challenges head-on. It's time to take bold steps and build a brighter future for our generation and generations to come.
As published in The Manila Times, dated 02 October 2024
