Climate change is a concern for everyone not just rich or poor countries as it affects everyone on the planet. Every little thing that we can do that can reduce the negative effects t our planet helps in the long run. And if we can reduce things in our everyday cycle then that adds up to a significant effort.
And according to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released last August, it’s us humans that are still pushing the envelope with the climate change crisis with greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.
In an effort to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, Nestlé Philippines has partnered with the Climate Change Commission, the agency spearheading the government’s climate change initiatives, for a joint project called “Klimathon: Our Race Towards a Net-Zero Reality.”
With the goal to empower the youth to develop and implement meaningful climate actions to address climate change issues, the Klimathon provides a platform for Filipino youth to spur the development of innovative and sustainability-focused solutions. Participants are asked to develop creative solutions among the following pillars: tackling plastic problems; lowering greenhouse gas emissions; and improving food security.
“Half of the world’s population consists of the youth. The Philippines today has the largest generation of young people in its history, comprising 28% of our population. Those of you who are young, who are here today, have a crucial and necessary role in tackling climate change. The Klimathon is a creative platform for you to participate in climate action, to help ensure a livable future on the planet that you will inherit,” said Kais Marzouki, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Philippines.
“It is imperative to work with all sectors – including the youth – in taking a whole of government and whole of society approach in view of intergenerational responsibility. Their future will be paved by the actions we take today,” said Secretary Emmanuel De Guzman of the Climate Change Commission.
Participating teams of Filipino students and young professionals will each present a project concept paper based on one of the three focus pillars. From there, 10 finalists will undergo a mentorship program with industry and field experts to refine and further develop their project design. Cash prizes and recognition await the winning teams.
