BRIEFER

SDG 13 - CLIMATE CHANGE

The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) demonstrates vigorous dedication to climate action through initiatives spanning disaster risk management, environmental conservation, climate awareness education, and community resilience building. UNP promotes heritage conservation integrated with disaster risk management through advocacy campaigns and an international forum presenting practices for building climate-resilient sustainable communities. The university addressed climate-related health risks by suspending in-person classes during extreme heat conditions and issuing advisories on coping with heat-related illnesses. UNP stressed disaster preparedness to graduating students, while the College of Health Sciences and Department of Languages and Humanities conducted disaster reduction workshops focusing on climate change adaptation as essential components of community resilience.

UNP implements extensive environmental conservation and restoration programs contributing to climate change mitigation. The University Research and Development Office led coastal clean-up and tree planting activities contributing to coastal ecosystem health and carbon sequestration, while the Environmental Management Office led tree planting events in Caoayan for climate mitigation through carbon dioxide absorption. The College of Criminal Justice Education led tree planting events recognizing their role in sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide. Student organizations prepared for coastal clean-ups highlighting student involvement in environmental protection, while UNP partnered with Pagsanaaan Sur community for marine conservation programs protecting coastal ecosystems vulnerable to climate impacts. UNP launched Operation ERWIN (Environmental Recovery and Waves of Initiative for a New Beginning) on October 17, 2024, a major initiative focused on comprehensive environmental recovery and conservation with strong linkage to climate action.

UNP improves climate awareness and sustainable practices through educational programs and environmental campaigns. The university's Biological Society celebrated World Earth Day promoting environmental awareness and climate action. UNP held seminars on "ecoconscious responsibility" linked to sustainable living and climate action, while the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management initiated environmental campaigns raising climate change awareness and promoting sustainable practices. The Department of Languages and Humanities and University Extension Office led recycling training and waste management seminars promoting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of Languages and Humanities conducted training connecting women's empowerment with environmental protection, addressing climate change's disproportionate impact on women and recognizing their critical role in adaptation and mitigation. The College of Business Administration and Accountancy organized events including environmental initiatives demonstrating climate action commitment in the business sector.

UNP launched Operation ERWIN (Environmental Recovery and Waves of Initiative for a New Beginning) on October 17, 2024, a major initiative focused on environmental recovery including restoration of marine and coastal habitats, with the program name's reference to "Waves" reinforcing the marine conservation connection. The university promotes disaster risk management crucial for protecting coastal communities and marine ecosystems from climate-related disasters through advocacy programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives focused on preserving heritage while managing disaster risks in coastal areas. The university's Biological Society celebrated World Earth Day raising awareness about environmental issues including the health of marine and coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine environments through student-led advocacy.

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