Important Guidelines on EPEP and FMR/DP: Navigating Key Laws and Regulations for Power and Mining Companies in the Philippines
In Bullet Points: What is EPEP and FMR/DP? What Are the Key Challenges Faced by the Mining Industry in the Philippines? How Do the MGB’s Guidelines Address These Challenges? How to Develop an FMR/DP for Your Mining Site Stages and Requirements of Mining Operation and Post-Mine Closure When it comes to mining operations, the importance of sustainable practices cannot be overstated. As power and mining companies navigate the complexities of their operations, understanding how to implement an Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP) and Final Mine Rehabilitation and/or Decommissioning Plan (FMR/DP) is crucial. These programs are not just regulatory requirements; they […]
Navigating Environmental and Social Impact Assessments: A Guide for Power and Mining Companies Seeking Compliance with International Finance Corporation (IFC) Standards
This blog post covers: Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Environmental and Social Performance Standards for Small-Scale Mining Operations Best Practices for Implementing OSH and ESIAs in Power and Mining Companies How can GreenDev help your project become Environmentally and Socially Complaint for IFC Funding? When it comes to power and mining industries, occupational safety and health (OSH) is of high importance because the nature of these sectors pose significant risks to workers, communities, and the environment. To address these concerns effectively, companies must integrate comprehensive safety practices with robust environmental and social frameworks. One such framework is the Environmental […]
Hydrological Modeling and Flood Studies: Experts’ Comprehensive Guide to Flood Risk Mitigation, with Global References
Flooding is a natural phenomenon that has significant social, economic, and environmental impacts. It is one of the most devastating natural hazards, causing extensive damage to property and infrastructure, loss of life, and disruption of essential services. In recent years, the frequency and intensity of floods have increased due to climate change, urbanization, and deforestation. Therefore, it is essential to adopt proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with floods. This comprehensive guide will delve into the critical aspects of hydrological modeling and flood studies, including flood risk assessments, identification of flood-prone areas, and recommendations for flood mitigation. We will […]
Flood Risk, Wind & Sun: Crucial Factors in Renewable Energy Planning
The world is moving more and more towards renewable energy sources like wind and solar energy. However, before any construction starts, a detailed evaluation of the topography and environmental considerations is crucial to the projects’ sustainability and success. This guide will explore the important factors that renewable energy investors and project managers need to think about before breaking ground. Assessing the Wind Turbine Area for Flood Risk Wind turbines, while being a significant source of clean energy, can be vulnerable to flood risks, especially in coastal regions or areas prone to heavy rainfall. A flood risk assessment is therefore crucial […]
Philippines’ EPR Act of 2022: A Catalyst for Corporate Responsibility and a Sustainable Future
There has always been a debate as to who should be held accountable for the insurmountable amount of plastic waste in the country. Usually, the blame is heavily placed on people who use and purchase plastic bags or other plastic products. It is presumed that those people who incorporate such practice to their lifestyles contribute highly to pollution and degrading environmental conditions– but a different perspective arises when one examines why people purchase such products. For example, products in sachets are often purchased by people because these are more affordable as compared to most of the “eco-friendly” products available in […]
Embarking on an Offshore Wind (OSW) Energy Project in the Philippines? Here’s what you need to know according to the latest DENR Guideline
The Philippines, known for its stunning coastlines and rich marine biodiversity, is embarking on a journey toward sustainable energy solutions. With the issuance of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order (DAO2024-02), the country is gearing up to harness the power of offshore wind energy (OSW) while safeguarding its precious ecosystems. DAO2024-02 underscores the importance of promoting economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability through the development of offshore wind energy projects. Recognizing the potential of OSW to contribute to a low-carbon future, the government aims to tap into the country’s vast offshore wind resources estimated at […]
Philippines SDG Watch 2023: Measuring Progress and Charting the Course for a Sustainable Future
What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? During the celebration of its seventieth anniversary on September 2015, the member states of the United Nations decided on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as the new global plan of action. This built on the more focused Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and was intended to include all countries and all aspects that the framework of the MDGs fell short in, like environmental sustainability and social inequalities, to name a few. The SDGs were formally declared in the document entitled “Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” or simply the 2030 […]
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 […]
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 […]