PH Champions Blue Carbon, Tackles Plastic with WEF
The Philippines (PH) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) recently formalised an agreement addressing blue carbon ecosystems and combatting plastic pollution on the sidelines of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Representing the Philippine government, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ma. Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga signed the agreement alongside Neo Gim Huay, the Managing Director of the WEF Center for Nature and Climate. Huay emphasised the significance of these agreements, focusing on collaborative efforts to protect and restore blue carbon ecosystems while tackling plastic pollution.
Huay expressed optimism about the impact of these agreements on the Philippines, recognising the country's vital role as an archipelago. She hoped that the agreements would inspire communities, initiatives, public policies, and corporate involvement in safeguarding and preserving ecosystems.
In response to an interview with Malacańang Press Briefer Daphne Oseña-Paez, Gim Huay commended the Philippine government's progressive policies, such as extended producer responsibility, highlighting the need for producers to play an active role in managing consumption-related impacts.
Sharing her personal experience diving in the Tubbataha, Gim Huay praised the Philippines' blue carbon marine protection projects, citing Tubbataha as "one of the best marine parks in the world."
Gim Huay stressed the importance of close collaboration with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is dedicated to ensuring a sustainable ecosystem. She underscored the necessity of global cooperation to translate commitments into practical solutions for communities on the ground.
Alfredo Giron Nava, WEF Head of Ocean Action Agenda and Friends of Ocean Action, echoed Gim Huay's sentiments, emphasising President Marcos's instrumental support for the agreement. Nava highlighted the Philippines, led by President Marcos, as a clear example of what can be achieved on a global scale.
Following the signing, both the Philippines and the WEF will share best practices with communities, civil societies, and the corporate sector. The goal is to translate the agreements into tangible progress, showcasing the Philippines' leadership in nature-based environmental solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The country stands out as a frontrunner in addressing blue carbon and plastic pollution.
Source: Philippine Information Agency
