StockTake4Climate emergency forum done, community participants present commitment, expectations and recommendations
Recommendations, commitment and expectations from the academe, business, socio-civic organizations, utilities, and the community as a whole were presented during the Stocktake4Climate Emergency forum done at Ion Hotel, Baguio City, Nov. 28.
Anchored on the premise of “where we are, where we want to go, how to get there,” an assessment and discussion of climate action ensued for subnational inputs to the Paris agreement, an International treaty for climate change, mitigation, adaptation and finance. The goal against global warming is to limit temperature increase to 1.5 degrees C above pre-industrial levels.
Representative to the International Council for Local Environment Initiatives (ICLEI) Ricardo Marfiga, Jr. facilitated the process, participated in by the community groups.
The ICLEI is an international non-government organization that promotes sustainable development that provides technical consultation to local governments, identifying and meeting sustainable objectives while Stocktake4climateEmergency is an intergovernmental support, with response to climate change.
The gathered citizens contributed well, asking that greenhouse gasses (GHG) surveys be done, with target setting to decrease said emissions; requesting for the use of solar and other renewable energy sources; and a similar survey for solid waste, making use of data for studies on reduction, recycling, re-use and circular economy.
The water utilities, rainwater collecting and harvesting as well as wastewater treatment facilities should be looked into, for added resources, the community wanted to be assured.
Tree planting should remain a basic step for climate change, as with the strict implementation of non-use of plastics (SuPs), and monitoring of community compliance to directives on pollution control in all aspects.
For cleaner air, the intensified, incentivized production and use of electric vehicles is suggested; for traditional vehicles’ strategized routes to control heavy traffic, and decrease air pollution with clean fuel use. Safe bike lanes are needed, as with road widening, traffic management, the citizens said.
Massive public awareness and consultations with indigenous peoples, vendors and communities are needed for pollution and resource use, it was also requested; as with partnership with Benguet towns, for pro-people, pro-environment and strengthened supportive policies, spearheaded by the local government unit.
The return or buy back of electronic wastes (e-wastes), collection of manufacturer’s plastic waste was also given notice by the community, with the functional hazardous collection at Bakakeng Central.
For all of these, the community wants accountability and transparency from the implementing bodies, as reports on the city’s present state were given by the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) Assistant head Engr. Marivic Empizo and City Planning, Development and Sustainability Office head Archt. Donna Tabangin.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong in his message appealed for concerted efforts and “fast action” from the community, as adaptation and mitigation plans are prepared to preserve the earth for the next generation. – JGF
