Plastic pollution and energy consumption are issues that greatly contribute to our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and global temperature rise.  Historically, the energy sector has been the largest greenhouse gas emitter globally, with 35% originating from the energy supply chain. Meanwhile, plastic production which uses energy throughout the process, adds to the emissions. Additionally, research demonstrates that commonly used plastics like water bottles and sando bags emit methane and ethylene, two powerful greenhouse gasses, when exposed to radiation.  Tonight, at exactly 8:30 PM, Earth Hour 2024 with the theme "Switch Off Plastic, Turn on Nature," presents us with an opportunity to tackle the issues of plastic pollution and energy consumption at the grassroots level.  By simply turning off the unessential lights and unused devices in our homes and offices for a little over an hour, we can make a meaningful impact in reducing energy consumption and raising awareness about the environmental consequences of plastic pollution.  Let's come together and create the biggest hour for the earth! Mark your calendars and join the movement wherever you are!  Together, let us switch off plastic and turn on nature dahil buhay, kabuhayan, at kinabukasan natin at ng mga susunod na henerasyon ang nakataya sa hamon ng nagbabagong klima.

Did you know that currently, 2.2 billion people live without access to safe water? Water is undeniably a fundamental element crucial for supporting life. This fact underscores why much of the world's natural water resources are highly sought after, often leading to needless conflicts in some regions. As the impacts of climate change continue to escalate in both quantity and intensity, it's imperative that we unite and actively engage in approaches to protect and conserve our most precious water resources. Today, as we celebrate World Water Day under the theme "Leveraging Water for Peace," let us emphasize the need to develop and implement robust policy mechanisms to safeguard our natural water resources. May this day also remind us that beyond its importance for drinking, sanitation, and hygiene, safe water is crucial for agriculture, industry, and biodiversity. By working towards water conservation mechanisms that are inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sustainable, we can ensure a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. Happy World Water Day from the Climate Change Commission!

  This International Day of Happiness, let’s spread smiles! ☺️ At the Climate Change Commission, happiness stems from our ability to contribute to the well-being of our planet. We'd love to hear from you - what brings happiness into your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below.  ---------- On 12 July 2012, the General Assembly of the United Nations passed its resolution 66/281 which proclaimed 20 March the International Day of Happiness. The commemoration is aimed at acknowledging happiness and well-being as a common objective for society and emphasizing the importance of integrating them into public policy objectives.

Consumer behavior significantly influences climate change. The choices individuals make regarding energy use, transportation, diet, and consumption of goods and services play a huge part in either mitigating or exacerbating climate change and its effects. As we celebrate World Consumer Rights Day today, let us take a moment to reflect and honestly assess our current consumer behavior.  Let this day also serve as an encouragement for everyone to adopt sustainable consumption patterns, which can greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help mitigate climate change. Happy World Consumer Rights Day from the Climate Change Commission! ‐---------- World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on the 15th of March to ensure that people have all the information they need to make sound decisions when purchasing consumer products.  United Nations Conference on Trade and Development celebrates the World Consumer Rights Day by spearheading discussions on how to meet both the present and future generations’ needs for goods and services that are sustainable economically, socially, and environmentally. This year's theme, "Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers," emphasizes the importance of ethical AI products that respect consumer rights.