Philippines and Japan Strengthen Environmental Ties, Push Forward Climate Initiatives

In a significant move to combat climate change, the Philippines and Japan have committed to enhancing their environmental collaboration. This pledge was made during the opening of the 2nd Philippine-Japan Environment Week, where Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga emphasized the importance of their partnership in tackling shared environmental issues. The event, attended by Japan’s Environment Minister Kobayashi Fumiaki and Ambassador Endo Kazuya, highlighted the formalization of their cooperation through a Memorandum signed in December 2023, aimed at fostering mutual prosperity and sustainable development. Key areas of focus include climate change adaptation, pollution control, clean energy, and water management. Loyzaga detailed the Philippines’ efforts in accelerating climate action through reforestation, multi-purpose water facilities, and investments in both green and gray infrastructure. She also discussed advancements in monitoring systems for carbon markets, disaster risk reduction, air quality, and integrated water resource management. The Philippines is actively working on over 200 water projects to improve water supply and security. Additionally, the country is pushing for a circular economy, focusing on waste management, particularly plastic pollution and marine litter, and initiating bans on hazardous chemicals. As nations with extensive coastlines, both countries face unique challenges in managing ocean resources, leading to plans for marine science stations to enhance research and sustainable ocean management. Loyzaga reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to biodiversity conservation, adopting an ecosystem-based approach to protect and restore ecosystems, and support indigenous and local communities.