The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) required mining companies to include biodiversity conservation and climate action in their social development programs through an administrative order issued on February 17.
Environment Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized that the new order directs mining firms to focus not only on labor practices and gender equity but also on reforestation and ecosystem rehabilitation to address biodiversity loss.
She said the goal is to ensure the wealth from mineral extraction is shared equitably, ecosystems are protected, and local communities are empowered.
The order mandates mining firms to develop a five-year program to improve the living standards of their host communities, including initiatives like building schools, hospitals, and housing projects.
The extractive industry, while linked to environmental damage, also plays a crucial role in the global shift to clean energy due to rising demand for critical minerals such as copper, nickel, and cobalt—key components in electric vehicles, battery storage, and wind turbines.
The DENR’s directive also requires mining companies to align their development programs with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to eradicate poverty by 2030.
Support earned
The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) supported the order, noting its members have long been proactive in sustainability efforts.
In 2023, PNIA members invested P4.3 billion in development projects, including planting nearly 4.3 million trees.
The UN established the 17 SDGs in 2015 to replace the Millennium Development Goals, focusing on ending poverty and hunger, ensuring access to clean water and energy, promoting decent work, and reducing inequalities.
However, the UN’s 2024 report revealed that progress toward these goals is slowing, with only 17 percent of SDG targets on track.
The report cited the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and ongoing conflicts as reasons for the delays.
The Philippines, in line with its commitment to the SDGs, incorporated them into its 2023-2028 Development Plan.
Additionally, efforts continue to encourage the private sector to align investments with the SDGs, including the UN Development Programme’s 2024 investor map.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.