Assessing Progress and Challenges in Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13)

Analyzing Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) trends reveals several key findings. There has been a gradual increase in the impact of research efforts addressing climate action, indicating ongoing work to tackle climate change challenges. However, the emphasis on low-carbon energy use has significantly declined, suggesting difficulties in maintaining and advancing sustainable energy practices. This underscores the need for more effective solutions in this area. On the other hand, there has been a sustained commitment to environmental education measures, including local programs, disaster planning, government support, NGO collaboration, and general environmental education. Nonetheless, the absence of reported commitments to achieving carbon neutrality in all three years (2021, 2022, and 2023) raises concerns as it hampers effective climate action strategies and progress toward reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

Engagement with the community on SDG 13 involves various specific initiatives. This includes local education programs on climate, such as the tripartite agreement between ASOG, DOE, and LGA for competency-based energy training for LGUs and projects like SOLAR-POWERED CLEAN WATER SYSTEMS. Additionally, collaborative efforts are focused on climate action planning, exemplified by the CCARPH Naga City Terminal Report and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (NDRRMP) 2020 – 2030. These collaborations aim to enhance resilience in climate change and disasters. Moreover, there are initiatives to inform and support government agencies, such as the eBayanihan Disaster Management System and the partnership between MO, ADMU, and PAGASA for risk management. Lastly, community engagement includes collaborations with NGOs for environmental education, such as the partnership between MO, ADMU, and PAGASA, and initiatives like CCARPH - Buklod Tao. These actions demonstrate a concerted effort to work closely with the community to address climate-related challenges and promote climate resilience.