September 8 declared ‘National Green Building Day’

By Prince Golez

President Rodrigo Duterte has declared September 8 of every year as the “National Green Building Day.”

In Proclamation No. 1030 signed on October 21, Duterte directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH to promote the observance of the National Green Building Day and identify the programs, projects, and activities for its yearly celebration.

All government agencies, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, and local government units to support the DPWH in the implementation of the proclamation.

“To promote sustainable development in the construction sector, it is imperative to intensify existing initiatives to promote and raise awareness on the efficient and equitable use of resources, proper water and waste management, and integration of eco-friendly processes and systems, among others,” said Duterte.

The Chief Executive also cited the need to “provide opportunities to encourage cooperation between the public and private sectors in advancing the government’s commitment to protect the environment.

In 2016, the DPWH adopted the Philippine Green Building Code through the issuance of National Building Code Development Office Memorandum Circular No. 1, which provides for a framework of standards to reduce the country’s carbon emissions from buildings, and promote the health and well-being of the building occupants.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)