Experts tackle urban devt, sustainability

EXPERTS in sustainability, urban planning and employment opportunities gathered at The Manila Times (TMT) Model Cities And Municipalities 2024 Awards at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria on Sept. 19, 2024.

Science Diplomat and United Nations (UN) Sasakawa Laureate Glenn Banaguas discussed resiliency and sustainability through climate science and how local governments can apply this.

Noting the increased temperatures and precipitation in various regions as well as the risks of hazards like flood and drought, Banaguas said it was important to take into account greenhouse gas emissions, carbon footprint and the adaptive capacity to create a roadmap toward better sustainability.

Awareness is the first step, as it will indicate which areas of the country need immediate attention. This is achieved through historical analysis before identifying the risks, Banaguas said.

He acknowledged that budgets for disaster management — only 5 percent of a local government unit's total revenue — are not enough but advised LGUs to use science when trying to create a sustainable model city.

«First, you have to create a net zero emission roadmap. This is where you apply different models. Apply science, please. From the very start, you have to engage the scientists.»

«It has to be science and evidence-based. This is where you apply transformative mechanisms, nature-based solutions and global safety standards. And definitely, how are you going to do that? You provide training [and capacity building.] You collaborate with different stakeholders,» he added.

Sustainable smart cities

Punongbayan & Araullo Grant Thornton Chief Sustainability Officer and Partner for Advisory Services Christopher Ferareza highlighted the significant roles that cities play in helping the country find its path toward sustainability.

Ferareza said the Philippines ranks 92 out of 166 countries on the 2024 UN Sustainable Development Goals Index, with a score of 64.47. What makes the status of the Philippines more alarming is its high vulnerability to disasters.

«Cities are considered to be the forefront of our battle against climate change because despite occupying only 3 percent of the Earth's land,