UNP Sustainability
Development Goals
SDG 14 - LIFE BELOW WATER
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) is steadfast in its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing research, education, community engagement, and direct action, UNP actively contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. This commitment is demonstrated by a range of initiatives, including collaborative research projects that develop innovative solutions for aquaculture and marine ecosystem monitoring, skills training programs that empower local communities, and educational campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of marine biodiversity and responsible resource management. By fostering a sense of responsibility and inspiring action among students and community members alike, UNP strives to create a future where the health and productivity of our oceans are ensured for generations to come.
A Coastal Clean-up Drive cum Training on Environmental Awareness in Coastal Areas
To protect the aquamarine, DMNS organized a coastal clean-up drive, gathering and sorting trash from the beach’s shoreline and educating the public about the severity of the marine debris issue.
The activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically Target 14.1: By 2025, we will prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. The coastal clean-up drive directly addresses this target by removing debris and pollution from the coastal environment. This action contributes to improving water quality, protecting marine ecosystems, and reducing the negative impacts of pollution on marine life and human health.
Furthermore, the lecture-training on environmental sustainability in coastal areas aligns with Target 14.a: Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries. By educating residents about sustainable practices, the initiative promotes awareness and empowers the community to protect and preserve their coastal resources. This knowledge transfer can lead to the adoption of alternative livelihoods and responsible fishing practices, contributing to the long-term health and sustainability of the coastal ecosystem.
Training on Fish Aquaculture Technique and Traditional Practices of llocano Fishers at GK Candon City, Ilocos Sur
Aquaculture training is an effective communication tool in molding behavioral changes in their knowledge, attitude, and skills for adopting improved business practices or even livelihood approaches. In addition, they can supplement their knowledge and skills through training, particularly for marginalized fish farmers in sustainable aquaculture.
This activity strongly aligns with SDG 14, specifically with Target 14.7: By 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. By providing training and support to local communities engaged in aquaculture, this initiative promotes sustainable practices that can enhance their livelihoods and economic benefits.
The focus on improving water quality in backyard/pond grow-out systems also links to Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
Addressing the issue of nutrient-indicator algae in the ponds helps to reduce pollution and improve the overall health of the aquaculture systems, contributing to the broader goal of minimizing the environmental impact of aquaculture practices.
Career Campaign cum Lecture on Major Marine Ecosystems in Dr. Ricardo Gacula Memorial National High School, Candon City, locos Sur.
The College of Arts and Sciences, headed by the BS Marine Biology program, will conduct a career campaign cum Lecture on Major Marine Ecosystems at Dr. Ricardo Gacula Memorial National High School, Candon City, Ilocos Sur.
This activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically Target 14.a: Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology… to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries… By conducting a lecture on major marine ecosystems and raising awareness about marine resources, this campaign contributes to increasing knowledge and understanding of marine environments among students.
This initiative can foster a sense of responsibility and encourage students to pursue further studies or careers related to marine conservation and sustainable development. Educating future generations about the importance of marine biodiversity and the threats facing our oceans is crucial for achieving the long-term goals of SDG 14.
URDO-AMRRDC Research Dissemination 1
The process of finishing research involves many steps. Sharing the outputs of research with other researchers, Industry professionals, and the public is an important part of the research process. Research endeavors are rarely considered complete unless the results are widely shared.
This activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically Target 14.a: Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology… to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries… By disseminating research findings on mangroves, seaweed, and estuarine mollusks, and providing skills training on bangus smoking, this initiative promotes the sustainable use of marine resources and enhances the knowledge and skills of local fisherfolk.
Sharing research outputs and providing practical training empowers communities to make informed decisions about resource management and adopt sustainable practices. This can lead to improved livelihoods, enhanced food security, and the conservation of coastal ecosystems, contributing to the overall goals of SDG 14.
Simultaneous Activities on Coastal Cleanup and Mangrove Planting
Another component of the MOA signed between San Vicente LGU and University that needs to be completed, this coastal clean-up and mangrove planting will involve UNP students and faculty in an act of service to nature which will benefit even the next generations to come.
This activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically hitting multiple targets:
- Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. The coastal cleanup directly addresses this target by removing plastic waste and other debris from the coastal environment. This helps to improve water quality, protect marine ecosystems, and reduce the harmful impacts of pollution on marine life.
- Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans. The mangrove planting aspect of this activity contributes to this target. Mangroves are vital coastal ecosystems that provide numerous benefits, including shoreline protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat for various marine species. Planting mangroves helps to restore and protect these valuable ecosystems, enhancing their resilience and contributing to the overall health of the coastal environment.
- Target 14.3: Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels. While not directly addressed in the activity description, the focus on plastic pollution and environmental awareness indirectly contributes to this target. Plastic pollution can exacerbate ocean acidification, and raising awareness about the interconnectedness of these issues can promote broader action to address the root causes of ocean acidification.
In combining coastal cleanup and mangrove planting, the activity takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges facing our oceans and contributes to multiple targets within SDG 14.
Greening Tomorrow: UNP COE Mandated and Accredited Officers Unite for a Clean-Up Drive
On November 25, 2023, the Philippine Institute of Sanitary Engineers (PSSE) UNP Chapter, in collaboration with the Junior Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (JPICE), Agrimensores Club (AgC), Engineering Department Students’ Association (EDSA), The Edifice Publication, and various class mayors, organized a large-scale clean-up drive in Nansuagao, Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. Themed “”The Journey Towards a Cleaner World Begins with a Single Step,”” the initiative aimed to address environmental pollution caused by Typhoon Egay and promote sustainable practices in the community. Over the course of the event, volunteers collected 110 garbage bags filled with plastic, glass bottles, Styrofoam, clothes, and other waste, underscoring the growing issue of waste accumulation. The clean-up aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water, focusing on preventing waste from entering local water systems, which could harm aquatic life and ecosystems. This effort demonstrated the direct link between land pollution and the health of our oceans and waterways. One key lesson from the event is that even small, localized actions can have a big impact on preserving marine and aquatic environments. As PSSE-UNPC President Precious Elaine Aaron said, “”Promoting the importance of clean and safe communities will contribute to halting our endless problems regarding waste pollution,”” emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect both land and marine ecosystems.
This activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. The clean-up drive directly addresses this target by removing waste and debris from the environment, preventing it from entering local water systems and ultimately the ocean. This helps to protect aquatic life, maintain water quality, and preserve the health of marine ecosystems.
The activity also indirectly supports Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts… By raising awareness about the interconnectedness of land and marine environments, the initiative promotes a holistic approach to environmental protection. Understanding that pollution from land-based sources can significantly impact the health of oceans and waterways encourages responsible waste management practices and contributes to the overall goal of protecting and preserving marine and coastal ecosystems.
FISDA: Smart IoT-Based Fish Farming Monitoring System
Researchers from the College conducted and published research that focused on the development of a system for the proper monitoring of water quality and feeding factors of fish. Specifically, the researchers designed the IoT device with functionalities to remotely monitor the fish, and display the status of water quality, such as water level, total dissolved solids, temperature, humidity, and automatic feed bin level.
This research activity aligns with SDG 14, specifically Target 14.7: By 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. By developing a smart IoT-based fish farming monitoring system, the researchers contribute to improving the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture practices.
This technology can help fish farmers optimize water quality, feeding practices, and overall fish health, leading to increased productivity and reduced environmental impact. The ability to remotely monitor critical parameters empowers farmers to make informed decisions, potentially minimizing resource use and preventing pollution from excess feed or poor water quality. This contributes to the sustainable management of aquaculture and enhances its economic benefits, aligning with the goals of SDG 14.
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 on environmental protection, 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.
- Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. The coastal clean-up drive directly addresses this target by removing debris and pollution from the coastal environment, improving water quality and protecting marine ecosystems.
- Target 14.a: Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology… in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries… The eco-lecture series contributes to this target by raising awareness about environmental governance, sustainable development goals, and community-based resource management. This knowledge transfer empowers the community with information and tools to make informed decisions about resource management and participate in conservation efforts.
- Target 14.b: Provide access for small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets. While not directly addressed in the activity description, the focus on community-based resource management and the “SALWAD AGLAWLAW PROGRAM” could potentially contribute to this target by promoting sustainable fishing practices and supporting local fisherfolk managing their resources.
By combining coastal clean-up with an educational component, this activity takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges facing our oceans and contributes to multiple targets within SDG 14.