With 2023 marked as the hottest year on record, the growing impact of human activity on our environment has become impossible to ignore. Asia, known for its vulnerability to natural disasters, is experiencing the effects more intensely than ever, according to a report from the World Meteorological Organization.

Industries are waking up to their role in this crisis and beginning to take meaningful steps toward sustainability. The challenge now lies in whether these efforts can truly drive the change needed to protect our future.

Fortunately, an increasing number of companies and corporations have been stepping up their game to commit to their accountability and environmental responsibilities. Different industries are now actively implementing various sustainability initiatives and efforts to support environmental protection and preservation.

Some of these initiatives include investing in green technology, using renewable energy, employing energy-efficient building materials, and incorporating passive design strategies. These are just a few of the many sustainable efforts that the different sectors do to alleviate the problems regarding the environment.

For the real estate sector, corporations have been incorporating the development of sustainable real estate projects. Beyond incorporating eco-friendly designs and practices, real estate companies are taking sustainability to the next level by implementing master-planned initiatives that focus on long-term environmental impact.

These initiatives include not only green building techniques but also the strategic development of entire communities, designed to minimize carbon footprints, optimize resource use, and promote sustainable living. Several companies also use a mix of renewable energy sources and green building materials to help reduce the properties’ carbon footprint.

Meanwhile, the energy sector is advocating for the use of sustainable energy sources. Companies in this industry also aim to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7—ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

Several corporations are leading the way in sustainability efforts and practices. For instance, Robinsons Land Corporation uses 100 percent renewable energy sources for their LEED Gold-Certified GIGA Tower, resulting in zero carbon emissions. Another case is Arthaland’s Century Pacific Tower, which uses 100 percent hydroelectric energy, eliminating its reliance on carbon-emitting coal-based energy sources. Meanwhile, Megaworld Corporation commits to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency with 19 LEED-certified buildings across the country, including its properties from Megaworld Hotels and Resort.

Energy companies like Shell incorporate practices to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 by converting 50 percent of their electricity to renewable sources by installing solar panels and green power contracts. AboitizPower also ventures into renewable energy development and a portfolio mix of almost 50:50 ratio of clean energy and thermal capacities.

To further explain and discuss the different efforts of various corporations in the energy and real estate sectors, the Manila Bulletin is hosting the first Manila Bulletin Sustainability Focus Session to serve as a platform for heightening awareness of sustainability in both sectors.

Stemmed from the two successful editions of the Manila Bulletin Sustainability Forum, this event aims to shine a spotlight on specific industries and to discuss further and promote the sustainability initiatives unique to each sector. This focused conversation also aspires to create significant collaboration among corporate leaders and help echo the call to the next generation.

The Manila Bulletin Sustainability Focus Session is set to happen on September 24, 2024, at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom, located within the Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila.

The event is open for the public and interested individuals who wish to be a part of this meaningful conversation can follow the Manila Bulletin Facebook page for more updates.