The Buildings and infrastructure sector is one of the key sectors that plays a significant role in addressing the impacts of climate change. According to a report co-authored by the UN Environment and the International Energy Agency (IEA) entitled, “Towards a Zero-Emission, Efficient and Resilient Buildings and Construction Sector”, the building sector plays a dominant role in the clean energy transition as it accounts to nearly 40% of the global energy-related CO2 emissions.

Moreover, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the highest governing body on climate science, have addressed through its Special Reports several challenges the infrastructure sector faces given its exposure to various risks compounded by the impacts of climate change, including among others, flooding, extreme weather events, sea level rise, water shortage, and many more.

Pursuant to the Republic Act No. 9729, as amended, the Climate Change Commission, as the agency tasked to coordinate and synchronize climate change programs in consultation with national government agencies and other stakeholders, has initiated activities geared towards developing building standards that integrate green designs and climate resilience with the end goal of providing support and recommendation to national government agencies on appropriate standards for implementation.

This initiative will also contribute to achieving the outputs of the Climate-smart Industries and Services (CSIS) thematic priority under the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP), which targets the promotion, development, and sustainability of climate change resilient, eco-efficient and environment-friendly industries and services and sustainable towns and cities, which include “green” design for infrastructure.