Forbes has listed Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte as one of the 50 sustainability leaders for her initiatives in combating climate change in the city, the city government announced on Saturday, September 21.
Belmonte was honored with other mayors from C40 Cities, including Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of Freetown, Sierra Leone; Anne Hidalgo of Paris, France; and Michelle Wu of Boston.
The list also includes influential figures such as entrepreneurs, scientists, philanthropists, investors, politicians, and activists working to fight the climate crisis.
Belmonte said the recognition underscored the city’s commitment to fighting climate change and protecting its citizens and the environment.
"We are extremely honored to be part of this inaugural list. This further solidifies our commitment to combating climate change and its negative impact on the environment and our QCitizens,” Belmonte said.
"It will also inspire our local government to continue discovering and implementing vital solutions that contribute to a healthier planet for current and future generations. We have to act fast and decisively on this problem," she added.
Forbes highlighted the 50 honorees for their ambition, innovation, and tangible impact in driving sustainable solutions.
The list aims to showcase those who are making a lasting difference in environmental stewardship, whether in research labs or the boardroom.
During the event, Forbes commended Belmonte for declaring a climate emergency in Quezon City, which allowed her to allocate 13 percent of the city’s budget towards climate initiatives.
The commitments aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Forbes also applauded Belmonte’s environmental initiatives, including expanding the city’s bike path network to 217 kilometers, transitioning the city’s free bus service to electric vehicles, and installing solar panels on public buildings.
Belmonte’s “trash-to-cashback” initiative, which bans plastic bags and single-use utensils and promotes refilling stations for common household products, was also highlighted.
Belmonte was previously named as the 2023 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Champion of the Earth for Policy Leadership for her advocacy against plastic pollution.