Shelter vs global warming

MANILA, Philippines - The fight against global warming is now literally on home turf. According to statistics from Enerdata, a consulting company that analyzes the energy sector and its impact on the environment, the average Filipino home releases 0.18 metric tons of CO2 per year, or 21 percent of the total carbon emissions produced in the Philippines annually.

As a major source of carbon emissions, the local residential sector is a contributor to the global warming crisis. The changes in climate affect the country as seen in the frequency of El Niño and La Niña which is problematic for farmers and fishermen, and the rising ocean levels which could possibly flood coastal towns.

In the face of these threats, responsible developers like Alveo Land are creating communities that are as friendly to the environment as they are to its inhabitants. Of these, the most promising is Treveia-a green community set to rise in the metro South.

“Treveia is designed to offset the ecological impact of residences,” says Jennylle Tupaz, Division Manager for Project Development of Alveo Land, an Ayala Land company. “Energy-efficient and water-conserving design ensures homes, and the community as a whole, are kind to the environment.”

Treveia incorporates natural lighting and ventilation in its homes and amenities, effectively lowering energy usage. This also minimizes carbon footprint since having a higher electricity load pressures coal-fired power plants to produce more energy and emit more carbon to the atmosphere.

Meanwhile, carbon-laden exhaust from vehicles is reduced through an abundance of bike and pedestrian paths. These alternative methods to get around the neighborhood are unique to Treveia, which is a walkable community where all homes are within 200 meters from a park.

In terms of water conservation, roads are built with a semi-porous pavement that catches rainwater to replenish underground reservoirs. This rain harvesting system also uses bio-swales and detention ponds, and works hand-in-hand with a double-piping system to supply non-potable recycled water to the rest of Treveia for drainage and flushing of toilets.

On top of its efficient management of water and energy resources, Treveia promotes a cozy family life amid nature. The development is home to lush environs and is conveniently located in the heart of NUVALI, the soon-to-rise metropolis in Laguna.

“Treveia is not only a green haven, it is also a modern sanctuary from pollution and stress,” says Tupaz. “Its spacious parks are perfect for outdoor exercises and meditative walks, while its highly networked location gives easy access to malls, schools and vacation spots.”

The 60-hectare development even nurtures community bonding through a 2.5-hectare Central Park featuring a Grand Clubhouse and a multi-purpose open field for group activities. Further strengthening neighborhood interactions are Treveia’s four themed parks that represent different elements of nature: The Rain Garden Park for water, The Woodland Park for wood, The Hillock Park for earth, and The Wind Chime Park for wind.

“There are also educational signages that remind residents how to live a greener lifestyle. These mnemonic devices reinforce the choice of residents to live a more peaceful coexistence with nature,” says Tupaz.

With its sustainable design that lowers carbon emissions among residential homes, and its promise of natural comfort away from city pollution, Treveia is truly the idyllic Southern shelter against global warming.

Alveo Land Corp., formerly Community Innovations, sets the benchmark for innovation in Ayala Land. For more information visit www.alveoland.com.ph, email [email protected] or call (632) 848.5100 (Metro Manila) and 1-800-10-8485100 (Outside Metro Manila). You may also visit the Treveia and Verdana Showroom located at the 2nd level of Alabang Town Center.