Pinoys told: Contribute to climate resilience, conservation efforts

MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) yesterday said that Earth Hour should not end with the switching off of lights as it asked the public to contribute to ongoing efforts toward conservation and climate resilience.

“This movement does not end here, but rather serves as a reminder for us to take daily steps to promote conservation and build resilience,” CCC Vice Chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje said.

The global observance of Earth Hour on Saturday night coincided with World Water Day.

Borje cited the critical role of water in human survival and economic stability.

He cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a key strategy for strengthening conservation efforts, with a particular focus on innovative climate adaptation measures.

The NAP identifies water resources as one of eight key sectors crucial for climate adaptation, underscoring the need for comprehensive and sustainable water management strategies.

This year’s Earth Hour highlighted the critical link between energy conservation and water security.

According to Borje, the Philippines continues to face significant challenges in water access as he cited data from the Department of Health where 2.87 million households or 11.26 percent had no access to basic water supply in 2022, while 4.17 million households or 16.36 percent had no basic sanitation facilities.

“Water is a fundamental human survival and a basic human right. It is also vital to the Philippine economy, particularly in major industries such as agriculture, tourism, and semiconductors,” Borje said.

He also noted that based on the report of the World Bank, 42 percent of the country’s jobs are in sectors that use water intensively.

Borje said switching off lights for an hour served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts.