UNP Sustainability
Development Goals
SDG 12 - RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) is dedicated to responsible consumption and production. Through its academic programs and community work, UNP promotes sustainable practices like using local resources, reducing waste, and managing tourism responsibly. These efforts show UNP’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
1st OBAS Sining Galing Festival of the Arts
This aims to advocate cultural arts for the purpose of fostering and enhancing the CBAA students’ talents in the field of artistry. This initiative promotes locally made products, supporting SDG target 12.8 on ensuring people have relevant information, and awareness for sustainable development, and lifestyles.
This activity, while focused on promoting the arts, does have a connection to SDG 12, specifically Target 12.8: “By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.” By fostering artistic talent and showcasing locally made products, the initiative indirectly contributes to raising awareness about sustainable practices. This can be through the materials used in the art creation, the themes depicted in the artwork, or even by promoting local artisans and their sustainable production methods during the exhibition.
Essentially, the event serves as a platform to engage the CBAA community and potentially disseminate information about sustainable lifestyles. While the connection is not explicitly stated, the exhibition provides an opportunity to integrate sustainability messaging and promote awareness, aligning with the broader aim of Target 12.8 to educate and empower individuals to make informed choices that support sustainable development.
Revitalizing Gaco River: A Sustainable Tourism Initiative
On December 7, 2023, the University of Northern Philippines, through its College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, organized a Training-Workshop on Sustainable Tourism Management and a Clean-up Drive at Gaco River Ecotourism Park in Cacadiran, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. This initiative demonstrated UNP’s commitment to community engagement and sustainability, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Led by Ms. Rubylene T. Bactadan, Ms. Sharmaine R. Raganit, and Glenn J. Benzon, the workshop brought together students, barangay officials, and community stakeholders. The day began with a clean-up drive that improved the park’s ecological health. The seminar, featuring Ms. Raganit as the keynote speaker, highlighted eco-friendly tourism practices and provided insights into sustainable living and conservation.
The workshop generated actionable strategies for ongoing park management and community involvement, emphasizing collaboration on monitoring and resource allocation. This initiative showcased UNP’s approach to integrated education and community service, highlighting the potential of sustainable tourism to enhance environmental stewardship and local economic opportunities.
The activity strongly aligns with SDG 12, specifically targeting 12.b which aims to “Develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.” The training-workshop at Gaco River Ecotourism Park directly addresses this target by focusing on sustainable tourism management and community engagement.
The initiative provides valuable tools and knowledge to local stakeholders, empowering them to adopt eco-friendly practices and contribute to the park’s long-term sustainability. By incorporating a clean-up drive and promoting community-driven conservation efforts, the project actively involves the community in preserving natural resources and fostering environmental stewardship. This approach not only creates a more sustainable tourism model but also contributes to local economic opportunities and promotes the cultural value of the park.
Read full article in DAMILI Volume 2 series of 2023 on page 22 >>
PARTICIPATION IN THE 16th HOTEL, RESTAURANT, & TOURISM (HRT) WEEK with the theme “Malakas at Maganda”: The Surge of Philippine Cuisine
The College of Hospitality and Tourism Management participated in the 16th Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Week and the 14th National Food Showdown (Regional) from September 21 to 23, 2023, at Baguio Country Club, Baguio City. Under the theme “Malakas at Maganda: The Surge of Philippine Cuisine,” the event celebrated the richness of Filipino culinary traditions. CHTM proudly joined aspiring chefs, hoteliers, and tourism enthusiasts, reflecting its commitment to excellence and Filipino gastronomy. Over three days, attendees enjoyed culinary competitions, food showcases, and seminars, highlighting the skills of regional talent.
This article, while primarily focused on celebrating student achievements in culinary and hospitality competitions, subtly aligns with SDG Target 12.8: “By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.” The connection lies in the implicit promotion of responsible consumption and production practices within the hospitality and tourism sector.
Several competition categories, like “The Pantry Chef – Regional Achara” and “Best Traditional/Modern Recipe – Pinakbet,” emphasize utilizing local ingredients and traditional culinary knowledge. This focus encourages sustainable consumption by reducing reliance on imported goods and preserving cultural heritage. Furthermore, events like “Wedding Cake Decoration” and “Fruit and Vegetable Carving” showcase skills that promote resource efficiency and minimize waste. By highlighting these practices, the competition indirectly raises awareness about sustainable lifestyles within the industry and inspires more responsible approaches to food preparation and service.