UNP Sustainability
Development Goals
SDG 13 - CLIMATE ACTION
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) is deeply committed to contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. Recognizing the urgent need to address the global climate crisis, UNP has integrated climate change mitigation and adaptation into its institutional policies, strategies, and planning. Through various initiatives and programs, UNP strives to promote environmental awareness, enhance resilience to climate-related hazards, and empower individuals and communities to take action for a sustainable future.
1st OBAS Sining Galing Festival of the Arts
This student video project, focusing on environmental laws and climate change, likely aligns with Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.
The video, by discussing environmental laws related to climate change, is directly contributing to raising awareness and educating viewers on this critical issue. It likely covers topics such as legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy, and protecting ecosystems, all of which are crucial for climate change mitigation and adaptation. By disseminating this information through a video format, the student is making this knowledge accessible to a wider audience and potentially inspiring action on climate change.
Furthermore, depending on the specific content of the video, it could also align with Target 13.b: Promote mechanisms for raising capacity for effective climate change-related planning and management in least developed countries and small island developing States, including focusing on women, youth, and local and marginalized communities. If the video highlights the importance of environmental law in protecting vulnerable communities or discusses initiatives to empower these groups in climate action, it would demonstrate a clear connection to this target. By showcasing the role of law and policy in addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on marginalized populations, the video could contribute to building capacity and promoting more equitable and effective climate action.
Exploring the Autoclave: Our Journey into Medical Waste Management - Republic Act No. 6969, "Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990
A student’s video Output by a student of the College of Criminal Justice Education regarding Republic Act No. 6969, “Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990. It talks about the student’s point of view on integrating climate measures into national policies, strategies, and planning which strongly aligns with Target 13.2
While the article doesn’t explicitly mention “climate change,” it focuses on responsible waste management, particularly the treatment of hazardous medical waste. This directly connects to climate action because improper waste disposal contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, land and water pollution, and ecosystem degradation, all of which exacerbate climate change. By showcasing the Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital’s Medical Waste Autoclave Treatment Plant, the article demonstrates a concrete example of how climate change mitigation can be integrated into local policies and infrastructure.
Furthermore, the emphasis on “protecting our environment for present and future generations” reflects a core principle of sustainability, which is intrinsically linked to SDG 13. By highlighting the collaborative efforts between the local government, health officials, and the autoclave team, the article promotes a model for effective environmental management that can be replicated and scaled up. This contributes to building institutional capacity for climate action, another key aspect of Target 13.2. The acknowledgment of the video’s educational purpose further reinforces its alignment with SDG 13 by raising awareness and promoting community engagement in environmental protection.
Green Consumerism and Sustainable Household Financing Training
The training is designed for the participants to change the attitude of consumers by encouraging them to purchase products that are manufactured without any harm to the ecosystem. Moreover, it aims to train participants to have a financial plan that safeguards against life’s surprises. It was conducted on January 10, 2023, at Bantay Integrated West Central School.
This article, celebrating The Edifice’s participation in the 2023 Press Freedom Celebration, aligns with Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.
While the article doesn’t directly address climate change, it emphasizes the crucial role of press freedom in shaping a future of rights. A free press is essential for disseminating accurate information, facilitating informed public discourse, and holding those in power accountable. These factors are all critical for effective climate action. By empowering citizens with knowledge and enabling them to engage in discussions about climate change, a free press can drive progress toward solutions and promote responsible environmental policies.
Moreover, the article highlights the student’s active participation in writing, debating, and broadcasting competitions focused on freedom of expression. These activities cultivate critical thinking, communication, and advocacy skills – all crucial for raising awareness and mobilizing action on climate change. By fostering a generation of informed and engaged citizens, The Edifice indirectly contributes to building the human and institutional capacity necessary to address the complex challenges of climate change. The emphasis on “truth and service” in journalism further reinforces the connection to SDG 13, as addressing climate change requires honest reporting and a commitment to the greater good.
CCIT Cares - Green Environment Program
On December 16, 2023, the College, in coordination with the University Research and Development Office (URDO), conducted a coastal clean-up drive at San Sebastian, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, known for its sandy shores, clear waters, and, in some areas, hills that add to the scenic beauty. The activity primarily aimed to help in the preservation and protection of our natural environment is aligned with Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
Coastal clean-up drives play a vital role in mitigating the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems. By removing debris and pollution, these initiatives help protect marine life, improve water quality, and enhance the natural resilience of coastal areas to storms and erosion, which are exacerbated by climate change. This particular clean-up drive in San Sebastian, San Vicente, directly contributes to preserving the area’s natural beauty and its ability to withstand the effects of climate change, thereby strengthening its resilience.
Furthermore, the article implicitly promotes community engagement and awareness, which are crucial for achieving SDG 13. By involving students and collaborating with the University Research and Development Office, the college fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages collective action to address environmental challenges. This type of initiative can inspire broader community participation in climate action and contribute to building a more sustainable future for all.
Panagpapintas ti Aglawlaw - Native Plant Lanscaping Project
The College maintains its green open space through its “Panagpapintas ti Aglawlaw” project, which started in 2020 and has become proof of the resilience of the College of Communication and Information Technology faculty and staff during the pandemic. From December 2023, the focus of the project is on the use of plants that are native to the locality. One of the aims of the project is to sustain the natural landscape in the college and in the university. Likewise, it is aimed at contributing to the physical and mental well-being of the faculty, staff, and students, while maintaining and keeping in mind the natural environment and heritage. The “Panagpapintas ti Aglawlaw” project focused on green open spaces and native plants, aligns with Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
While the article doesn’t explicitly mention climate change, its emphasis on sustaining the natural landscape and utilizing native plants has significant implications for climate action. Native plants are generally more adapted to local climates and require less water and maintenance, reducing the carbon footprint associated with landscaping. By promoting biodiversity and preserving natural ecosystems within the college and university, the project contributes to carbon sequestration, improves air quality, and creates a more sustainable environment.
Furthermore, the project’s focus on the physical and mental well-being of the college community aligns with the broader goals of SDG 13, which recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability, social well-being, and economic development. By creating green spaces that promote relaxation and reduce stress, the project contributes to a healthier and more resilient community, better equipped to address the challenges of climate change. The project’s continuation since 2020 also demonstrates a commitment to long-term sustainability and the integration of climate-friendly practices into institutional planning.
Salwad Aglawlaw Program (Protect the Environment)
The Salwad Aglawlaw program is a year-long event composed of various eco-related activities that aim to help spread and foster awareness of environmental protection, and ecological solid waste management, and to take action towards the realization of the sustainable development goals.
This initiative also supports the Banning of Single-Use Plastic program of the university.
The “Salwad Aglawlaw Program” which includes a coastal clean-up drive and eco-lecture series, aligns with Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.
The program directly addresses Target 13.3 by focusing on environmental protection education and raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 13. The coastal clean-up drive not only contributes to cleaning the environment but also serves as a practical demonstration of environmental responsibility, engaging students and community members in taking direct action. The eco-lecture series further reinforces this educational component by providing valuable knowledge on environmental governance, sustainable development, and community-based resource management.
Moreover, this initiative fosters collaboration between the university and the local community, strengthening institutional capacity for climate action. By partnering with Barangay Dadalaquiten Norte and involving students in the Public Administration Students’ Society (PASS), the program promotes a sense of shared responsibility and encourages community-based solutions to environmental challenges. This collaborative approach is essential for building a sustainable future and effectively addressing the complex issues of climate change.