MANILA 16 APRIL 2020 – Deputy Speaker and Antique Congresswoman Loren Legarda today urged the general public to be more conscious of their individual and household carbon footprint, as the government continues to plea for everyone to stay at home during this Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) period due to the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Legarda said that "carbon footprint" measures the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that an individual or entity produces from their daily activities and lifestyle, adding that high levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere trap heat and contribute to further global warming and climate change.

“Outside our homes, we can already expect a significant reduction of harmful gases and pollutants as our transport sector, offices, and businesses remain limited due to COVID-19. But as we continue to stay at home during this quarantine period, let us also be mindful of the impacts that our daily activities have on our environment,” Legarda said.

“If every household could lead a more environment and climate-friendly lifestyle, we could also help address the climate crisis and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable economy,” Legarda added.

Legarda cited the following initiatives every household can undertake to minimize their carbon footprint:

• Plant food gardens and convert spaces into edible landscapes to help increase food supply, while also addressing climate change.

• Eat more vegetables and less meat. Choose organic and locally sourced food.

• Reduce or avoid food waste and practice proper solid waste management by composting and recycling.

• Switch off lights and unplug electronic devices when not in use.

• Convert to LED lights to further reduce energy consumption.

• Set air conditioning units at 25°C, as prescribed by the Department of Energy.

• Lessen screen time on gadgets and spend more time offline and with family.

Legarda also said that while the current pandemic may have stalled global climate priorities for the time being, reduction of carbon footprint within households through these simple yet effective actions can help achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Legarda however stressed that the industries and other sectors that are heavy consumers of fossil fuels must also reduce their emissions and actually take lead in helping our economy embrace the principles of sustainability, environmental protection, climate resilience, and health security.

“After this pandemic, let us not go back to business-as-usual. I hope we take this time to reflect and adopt ways we can live more sustainably. By taking care of our environment and climate, we also take care of our health. We need to strengthen our collective ambition and action in ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come,” Legarda said.