Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC) has partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in identifying and exploring opportunities for Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in the Philippines.
According to Shell, NBS will focus on initiatives aimed at safeguarding and improving natural ecosystems, such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal zones.
Furthermore, NBS could encompass “projects that improve agricultural sustainability to help absorb or prevent the release of greenhouse gases, while also delivering benefits to local communities and enhancing biodiversity of the area.”
Under the memorandum of understanding, both entities will engage in the exploration of integrated carbon and development prospects in the Philippines.
Additionally, they will collaborate on documenting procedures and initiatives that the agency can utilize as a point of reference in formulating programs, policies, and regulations pertaining to NBS carbon projects.
SPC emphasized that it has been undertaking a business transformation to align with its objectives of minimizing and decreasing emissions originating from its operations, as well as from the fuels and other energy products it distributes to its customers.
Shell is committed to becoming a net-zero emission business by 2050.
The collaborative effort is in accordance with DENR’s “National Greening Program,” as outlined in Executive Order No. 193 which establishes climate change mitigation and adaptation measures “through the restoration and protection of unproductive, denuded, and degraded forestland in the country.”
SPC President and CEO Lorelie Quiambao-Osial expressed the potential impact of collaborations in environmental conservation, highlighting that “it’s a significant moment where different sectors are coming together to make a positive difference.”
Meanwhile, DENR Secretary Maria Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized that “we all have a stewardship role in terms of protecting our national resources.” She expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to work together with SPC to achieve shared objectives of building a climate and disaster-resilient country and planet.
Shell and DENR share a common goal of advancing NBS and prioritizing “the protection, restoration, and regeneration of the country’s environment and natural resources.”