Philippine Mining Industry Embraces UN Sustainable Development Goals
In a significant move toward sustainable development, ENVIRONMENT Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga has introduced a new administrative order. This latest directive mandates mining companies to incorporate the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into their social development and management programs (SDMPs).
The UN SDGs, part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, consist of 17 comprehensive goals and 169 specific targets. Adopted by UN member states in 2015, these goals aim to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and ensure environmental protection by the year 2030.
What Are the UN Sustainable Development Goals?
The goals encompass a wide range of issues. They include achieving no poverty, ending hunger, ensuring good health and well-being, providing quality education, and promoting gender equality. Other goals focus on clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, and industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
In addition, these goals aim to reduce inequalities, develop sustainable cities and communities, encourage responsible consumption and production, and combat climate change. The SDGs also address marine conservation, wildlife protection, peace, justice, strong institutions, and global partnerships.
The SDGs serve as a guide for global efforts aimed at ending extreme poverty, reducing inequality, and safeguarding the environment over the next decade.
The Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) is a five-year plan mandated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) from mining companies. It ensures continuous improvement in the living standards of local communities surrounding mining operations.
Mining companies are now required to implement programmes that institutionalize climate action in host and affected communities, in addition to improving biodiversity conservation and protection.
The DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2010-21, or the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, mandates mining contractors and permit holders to allocate 1.5 percent of their operating expenses to SDMPs.
Local government units (LGUs) use these funds for development programs in mining project host communities. Specifically, 10 percent is allocated for information, education, and communication initiatives; 15 percent for mining technology and geosciences development; and 75 percent for projects directly carried out by LGUs, such as roads, water supply, healthcare facilities, school buildings, and livelihood programs.
The Financial Implications
The total SDMP commitment approved from 2002 to 2027 is PHP 28 billion, with PHP 17.7 billion allocated from 2002 to 2022. SDMP projects include livelihood programs, health and medical assistance, educational support, public infrastructure, and sociocultural and religious support.
Secretary Loyzaga’s Statement on the New Order
“Our aim is to ensure that the wealth created from mining activities is shared equitably, ecosystems are protected, and local communities gain empowerment,” said Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.
“We are considering aspects such as labor practices, gender equality, social services, reforestation, rehabilitation, and restoration of ecosystems to tackle biodiversity loss,” Loyzaga added. These efforts are in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to leveraging the country’s natural resources for sustainable development.
The Future of Mining in the Philippines
The integration of the UN SDGs into mining company practices is a vital step toward sustainable development in the Philippines. It aligns with global sustainability goals while ensuring the fair distribution of benefits from mining projects.
This initiative not only promotes environmental conservation and community empowerment but also positions the mining sector as a leader in sustainable development.
Conclusion
This directive sets a new standard for mining companies in the Philippines to prioritize sustainability. By aligning with the UN SDGs, these companies can contribute significantly to the country’s efforts to achieve a sustainable future.
The new order highlights a commitment to sharing the benefits of mineral extraction equitably and protecting ecosystems, reflecting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for sustainable development.
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