09 March 2010

QC, Greenpeace forge accord on climate change

The Quezon City government has forged a tie-up with a group that would disseminate information on how to cope with and minimize the effects of climate change.

In a meeting with the Greenpeace International, the city government urged its personnel to employ steps that will help the emission of greenhouse gas which is the cause of global warming.

In a bid to combat climate change, the city government earlier passed the Green Building Ordinance which promotes the use of renewable energy, energy efficient technology and environmental-friendly materials.

Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. calls the law as the city’s gift to “Mother Earth.’’

Greenpeace International called for urgent measures to minimize the greenhouse effect of gas emission saying that the devastation of tropical storm “Ondoy’’ is a warning sign of worse things to come if steps to deter climate change is not undertaken.

The raging floodwater of “Ondoy’’ killed 48 persons where massive flooding in the barangays near the waterways of the city was experienced.

Belmonte said that volunteers from the Greenpeace International worked with the city government in its relief and rescue operations at the height of the calamity in Sept. 2009.

He also directed city personnel to establish permanent relocation sites for the families living near the danger zones to spare them from the raging waters during typhoons and heavy rains.

By Chito A. Chavez

Manila Bulletin

March 7, 2010, 2:43pm