SDG 15 - LIFE ON LAND
UNP is diving deep into SDG 14 – Life Below Water, making waves in marine conservation right in their own backyard. UNP is nestled in the Heritage City of Vigan, Ilocos Sur which is a treasure trove of coastal life – from mangroves to seagrasses, seaweeds to coral reefs. It’s not just about green and blue sceneries; these ecosystems are the lifeblood of Ilocano culture, and cuisine.
UNP is not just looking at the sea; they’re taking a “ridge-to-reef” approach. They understand that what happens in the uplands, and within the Ilocos Sur communities affects, and impacts bodies of waters. It’s all connected, and UNP is connecting the dots.
Take the Abra River, for example. It’s not just a waterway; it’s a nursery for “Ipon” – those little goby fish that are important for local fishers. UNP is working to protect these vital spawning grounds, ensuring that the fish – and the fishing traditions – keeps swimming strong.
But UNP’s vision goes beyond conservation. They’re balancing ecological needs with community livelihoods, recognizing that the sea isn’t just a resource to protect – it’s a source of food, income, and cultural identity for Ilocanos.
From the classroom to the coastline, UNP is making SDG 14 come alive. They’re not just teaching about marine life; they’re nurturing it, ensuring that the rich aquatic heritage of Ilocos Sur continues to thrive for generations to come. That’s the UNP way – where education meets action, and conservation meets community.
Description: The Environmental Management Office (EMO) led a tree planting activity in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur, to help restore degraded land and promote a healthier ecosystem. This initiative directly contributes to mitigating climate change by increasing forest cover, which absorbs carbon dioxide. The activity also raises awareness among the university community and local residents about the importance of reforestation in combating climate-related issues.
Description: The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) organized a tree planting activity as part of its community outreach. This initiative contributes to climate action by helping to restore natural ecosystems and mitigate the effects of climate change. The event also served to educate students and faculty on the practical steps they can take to support environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Description: The URDO organized a coastal clean-up and tree planting activity as part of the university's 59th founding anniversary. This initiative actively educates the community on environmental conservation and the importance of climate action. By engaging students and faculty, the university promotes education for sustainable development and fosters a sense of environmental stewardship.
Description: The College of Architecture conducted a coastal clean-up activity as a community outreach program. This effort directly contributes to conserving terrestrial ecosystems, particularly the coastal areas that serve as a crucial interface between land and sea. By removing debris and waste, students and faculty help restore the health of these ecosystems and raise awareness about the importance of responsible environmental practices.
Description: The College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) conducted a blood donation drive and a tree planting activity as part of its community outreach. The tree planting initiative contributes to the sustainable management of forests and the restoration of local ecosystems. This joint effort demonstrates a multidisciplinary approach to environmental conservation and promotes an understanding of the importance of preserving life on land.
Description: The Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (DMNS) led a community outreach that included discussions on environmental sustainability. This initiative aims to educate the public on the importance of preserving natural resources and ecosystems. It also highlights the role of gender and culture in promoting sustainable practices.
Description: The College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) organized a campaign to preserve the natural beauty of the Gaco River Eco-Tourism Park. This initiative aimed to enhance the park's potential as a sustainable tourism destination and preserve the local ecosystem. By promoting responsible tourism and environmental awareness, this activity contributes to the sustainability of the local community.
Description: The faculty of the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (DMNS) held a tree-planting activity. This initiative aimed to combat climate change by increasing tree cover, which prevents flooding and soil erosion. The activity contributes to SDG 13 by raising environmental awareness and directly mitigating the effects of climate change, while also aligning with SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Description: The Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAC) program and the Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) department organized a training on environmental stewardship. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about proper waste management and environmental protection. By educating students and the community, the program promotes a culture of sustainability and responsible environmental practices, which are essential for combating climate change.
Description: The Department of Languages and Humanities, in partnership with the Center for Gender and Development, conducted a training on "Women and the Environment Towards Sustainable Community." This initiative is part of a campaign to end violence against women but also highlights the role of women in environmental conservation. By educating women on environmental issues, the program contributes to building community resilience against climate-related disasters.
Description: The University Research and Development Office's (URDO) Mushroom Research and Development Center (MRDC) conducted a research dissemination in Suyo, Ilocos Sur. This event aimed to share innovative findings in mushroom cultivation, promoting sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. By providing this knowledge, the university helps local farmers increase their productivity and enhance food security, which is a key component of climate resilience.
Description: A student organization launched a project called "SAYYAM" to promote a greener and more sustainable coastline. The initiative included a coastal clean-up drive and an information campaign to raise awareness about the effects of pollution on coastal ecosystems. This is a student-led effort that promotes environmental education and climate action.
Description: The university partnered with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) for "enhanced greening initiatives" that included a tree-planting activity in Santa, Ilocos Sur. This collaboration with a government agency demonstrates a strong public-public partnership to address environmental challenges. The initiative contributes to the sustainable management of forests and promotes the restoration of ecosystems.
Description: The University Extension Office, through the College of Teacher Education-Laboratory Schools, conducted social and moral development activities for residents of the Gawad Kalinga (GK) community. While not explicitly about the environment, GK is known for its community-building and housing projects, which often include environmental initiatives like urban gardening and waste management, aligning with the goal of sustainable communities and life on land.
Description: A student organization launched a project called "SAYYAM" to promote a greener and more sustainable coastline. The initiative included a coastal clean-up drive and an information campaign to raise awareness about the effects of pollution on coastal ecosystems. This is a student-led effort that promotes environmental education and climate action.
Description: The UNP Biological Society (BioSoc) led the university's celebration of World Earth Day, which included a clean-up activity and other events to promote environmental conservation. This initiative directly addresses the issue of marine pollution from land-based activities and contributes to the protection of ecosystems.
Description: The Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy (DSSP) conducted an extension activity that focused on environmental stewardship. The project included a coastal clean-up drive in Sinait, Ilocos Sur. This hands-on initiative helps to address marine pollution and promotes responsible waste management, which is crucial for protecting coastal ecosystems and marine life.
