Convergence on Climate Change - In Observance of Climate Change Week

With the fury of typhoon Pedring still fresh in the people’s minds and fearing that the worst is still to come, Climate Change Commission Vice Chair Mary Ann Lucille L. Sering called on the entire citizenry to help in the national effort in addressing global warming and climate change as the nation observes this year’s “Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week” from November 19-25, 2011.

“Let us all take part in the national effort to prevent climate change by performing acts identified by experts that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Sering advised. “We caused climate change and it is only us who can do something about it,” she added.

The national observance, mandated under Presidential Proclamation No. 1667, is part of the awareness campaign which aims to impress upon the general public the adverse effects of climate change on all forms of life. The Commission is leading the annual nationwide observance.

The Aquino administration has made climate change mitigation and adaptation as well as disaster risk reduction as one of its priority programs, alongside an aggressive awareness campaign.  

The Office of the President has issued Memorandum Circular No. 25 enjoining all officials and employees in all departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, and local government units to take part in the celebration.

Among the activities lined up by the Commission during the week-long celebration are a climate change conference, Media Workshop, an exhibit featuring best practices in climate change mitigation and adaptation and a rock concert featuring some of the popular bands in the country.

Sering appealed to the public to help reduce greenhouse gas emission in the atmosphere. “Let us reduce our wasteful consumption habits and lifestyles,” Sering said.

“Simple things, such as turning off lights or airconditioning units when not in use or waste segregation.  It may seem insignificant but if done together, will surely make a difference,” she added.

Sering invited the public to visit the exhibit as it is helpful and very informative.  She also asked them to attend the concert, which was organized to rally support for the climate change programs of the government.  Both activities will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City and are open to the public. They may also follow up activities through the net at events@climate.gov.ph and plenary@climate.gov.ph.