The Climate Change Commission highlights the crucial role of the business sector to address climate change during the Startup Week 2024 conference in Taguig City.

MANILA - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the importance of a multistakeholder approach in digitalization and sustainable practices for startups to address global climate challenges during the Startup Week 2024 conference. 

Discussions focused on climate-induced impacts, sustainable business practices, and digital innovations that can make industries become more adaptive to climate realities. Experts from various sectors highlighted the need for sustainable innovation to cultivate a resilient economy.

The CCC recognizes climate change as a global governance challenge that affects lives, livelihoods, and our future. It calls for a comprehensive strategy to build climate resilience and promote sustainability in the business sector.

Assistant Secretary Romell Antonio Cuenca, CCC Deputy Executive Director, urged the business sector to contribute more to address global climate challenges, and emphasized the CCC’s efforts in mainstreaming science-based policies and making climate data accessible at the local level.

"Our collective actions, no matter how small, can create meaningful change. Through partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders, we aim to foster data-informed climate solutions," he stated.

Gillian Santos, CEO and co-founder of Anihan Technologies, emphasized the importance of a whole-of-society approach. “Implementing sustainable practices is crucial, but so is a collective effort. Whether through high-tech solutions or simple innovations, coordinated action is key,” she said.

Priya Thachadi, Co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines, stressed the urgency of climate finance. “We must prioritize climate finance. Timely investments are essential to address climate challenges,” she remarked.

Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of CCC, highlighted the significant role of the business sector in climate action. “This sector has immense potential to drive transformative change by investing in sustainable practices. May this conference inspire all entrepreneurs, whether startups or seasoned, to commit to climate action,” he mentioned.

The five-day event, themed “Isa para sa Bayan: Igniting Filipino Innovation,” took place from 11-15 November 2024, in Taguig, gathering key business players from Southeast Asia.

The CCC continues to provide technical assistance and collaborate with stakeholders to empower communities and industries, equipping them with resources and knowledge to build resilience for a climate-ready future. 

For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.