By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
The lecturers from the World Bank and CPU officials during the webinar on Carbon Footprint.
A webinar addressing pressing issues related to carbon footprint and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions took place on October 4th, 2023, with 91 participants. The event was organized by Central Philippine University (CPU) in collaboration with esteemed experts and the World Bank.
The program commenced with a prayer led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, the Director of the Office of Communications at CPU, setting the tone for a thoughtful discussion on environmental sustainability and stewardship.
One of the key speakers was Taisei Matsuki, a Senior Climate Change Specialist, Environment, Natural Resources and Blue Economy representing the World Bank. Matsuki delivered a comprehensive presentation on the carbon market and GHG emission reduction strategies, shedding light on the intricate web of issues surrounding these topics.
William Derbyshire, Director of Economic Consulting Associates, followed suit by sharing insights gleaned from the Climate Change Development Report. His presentation emphasized the various opportunities and strategies for reducing GHG emissions in the contemporary world. William is currently leading a team advising the government of Malaysia on the impacts of introducing carbon pricing mechanisms.
The event was a joint initiative between CPU and several of its committees and departments dedicated to sustainability. The CPU Sustainable Campus Committee, led by Dr. Aries Roda Romallosa, played a pivotal role in organizing the webinar. The Chemical Engineering Department, headed by Dr. Dahlia Pescos, was actively involved, as well as the Junior Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers, under the leadership of John Paul Baleña as President and Dr. Sheila Pingul-Ong as the Adviser.
Ms. Stephanie Margallo, External & Corporate Relations Assistant at World Bank Philippines, provided expert support and delivered the closing message, reinforcing the significance of collaborative efforts in mitigating climate change.
In his message of thanks and encouragement, CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles expressed his gratitude to all the participants and supporters of the event. He commended their dedication to reducing GHG emissions and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation in this critical endeavor.
This webinar marked another milestone in the ongoing partnership between CPU and the World Bank, which dates back to 2008. Over the years, this collaboration has fostered knowledge-sharing activities and initiatives aimed at driving sustainable development.
As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, this webinar served as a beacon of hope and a platform for sharing expertise and ideas, bringing together experts and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds to collectively address the urgent need for GHG emissions reduction.
In closing, the webinar stands as a testament to the commitment of CPU and its partners to tackle environmental issues head-on, seeking innovative solutions to ensure a greener and more sustainable future for all.