10 Key Points from each of the 3 Main Mining Laws in the Philippines
First, there is the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942), which lays down the ground rules for mining activities in the country, covering everything from exploration to conservation of mineral resources. It’s essentially the playbook to ensure that mining operations benefit everyone while safeguarding the environment. This law encompasses all the requirements an entity needs to fulfill in order to acquire mining rights, as well as the legal and mineral agreements. 10 key points from the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942): State Ownership of Minerals: All mineral resources in public and private lands within the Philippines are […]
Your Handbook for Environmental Compliance in PH: How to Navigate the National Building Code and the Philippine Green Building Code [2024]
The Philippines has experienced an increase in building projects and urban growth in recent years. As the nation progresses, so does the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in the construction industry. As a result, frameworks for regulations have been established to direct engineers, architects, and building owners toward the construction of environmentally sustainable structures. In this handbook and comprehensive guide, we will explore the key aspects of the National Building Code (NBC) of the Philippines and its complement, the Philippine Green Building Code (PGBC). Understanding these documents is essential for businesses and property owners looking to prioritize environmental […]
Best Practices in Responsible Mining, with 5 Examples from Asia
The global economy depends heavily on the vital industry of mining for growth and development. It does, however, have significant negative effects on the environment and society. The objective of responsible mining is to reduce these adverse consequences while maintaining the sustainable production of precious minerals. With an emphasis on outstanding mining locations in Asia, we will examine the greatest practices in ethical mining in this article. Photo Source: Inquirer.net Responsible mining encompasses a set of principles and practices aimed at minimizing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of mining operations. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable resource extraction, community […]
ESG and Sustainability Reporting in the Philippines
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting is becoming increasingly important in the Philippines as companies recognize the value of sustainability and responsible business practices. The country is committed to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which require businesses to play a role in addressing environmental and social challenges. As of 2023, all Publicly Listed Companies (PLCs) in the Philippines that have a public float of at least 50% are already required to comply with and submit their annual ESG reports, following the guidelines issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 2019, in line with Global Reporting […]
Your Definitive Guide to Environmental Impact Assessments in the Philippines
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable development and environmental protection in the Philippines. This guide aims to provide an overview of the EIA process in the country, including its definition, legal framework, key stages, requirements, samples, FAQs and other key information. Additionally, it will offer insights on preparing for environmental compliance audits to ensure adherence to environmental regulations. What is an EIA? An EIA is a process that identifies, predicts, and evaluates the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project or activity. It is a tool for decision-makers to identify potential environmental impacts of proposed […]
Environmental Impact Assessments Conducted by GreenDev Solutions
Solar Power Project in Isabela Solar Valley Energy Solutions Incorporated To produce an EIS, a requirement of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), and secure an ECC from the same office. Moreover, an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) consistent with Philippines DENR requirements, IFC Performance Standards and the World Bank’s Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines (EHS) was also considered with this proposal. Offshore Exploration and Seabed Quarrying Sands Mining & Development Corporation To conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study, preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Report and Acquisition of Environmental […]
What You Need to Know About the Extended Producer Responsibility EPR Law of the Philippines
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law of the Philippines, or Republic Act No. 11898, was signed into law on July 23, 2022. The law requires large enterprises, or businesses with total assets worth more than ₱100 million, to participate in EPR, which is an environmental policy approach that encourages plastic waste reduction through the elimination of unnecessary plastic packaging of products, the development of more environmentally friendly and recyclable packaging design, and the recovery of plastic packaging from the trash in order to reuse them. Summary of EPR by GreenDev Solutions Under the EPR Law, obliged enterprises are required to: Establish […]
Climate Change in the Philippines; Status and Solutions
The Philippines, an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich culture. However, it is also one of the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change. With its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt, the country is prone to natural disasters such as typhoons, floods, and landslides. In recent years, the effects of climate change in the Philippines have become increasingly apparent, with more frequent and intense weather events causing significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. The country has experienced several extreme weather events in the […]
What to do with a Major Oil Spill: Strategies and 8 Expert Solutions
How to Create an Oil Spill Response Plan Oil spills in the ocean can have catastrophic effects on marine ecosystems and the environment as a whole. Specifically within the Philippines, there have been around 10 major oil spills since the turn of the millennium, and while we all hope that the list will end there, we know for a fact that the risk will always be there. As an environmental consulting and engineering firm, we see and know that effective oil spill response planning is crucial for mitigating all the adverse effects and minimizing the damages they bring. In this guide, we […]
Best Practices in the Conduct of Topographic and Bathymetric Surveys
Topographic and bathymetric surveys are crucial in several areas, including environmental management, urban planning, construction, and marine navigation. Topographic surveys involve measuring and mapping the physical features and contours of the land, while bathymetric surveys focus on measuring and mapping the depth and topography of the seafloor or underwater structures. To conduct accurate topographic and bathymetric surveys, it is essential to follow specific best practices. This article outlines the best practices in conducting topographic and bathymetric surveys. 1. Planning The first step in conducting topographic and bathymetric surveys is proper planning. Planning helps to ensure that the survey is carried […]
We’re ready to make bigger ripples, 2023!
Here’s our team of #BeThatRipple people celebrating all the achievements of 2022 together and bracing ourselves for bigger waves this coming 2023! That was one awesome strategic planning series, #TeamGreenDev! 💚
Key Points of the Philippine Small Scale Mining Act of 1991 and the Minahang Bayan Program
REPUBLIC ACT No. 7076 - June 27, 1991. AN ACT CREATING A PEOPLE'S SMALL-SCALE MINING PROGRAM AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, otherwise known as the "People's Small-scale Mining Act of 1991."