Consequences of a careless climate pledge

ON Wednesday, a letter written by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Chairman George Barcelon to Climate Change Commissioner Emmanuel de Guzman was made public. It revealed some of the deep concerns the business community has over the pledge to cut the Philippines’ greenhouse gas emissions 70 percent by 2030 that President Aquino made before the world last year, and which was subsequently included in the COP 21 Paris climate agreement signed in December.

We agree with Chairman Barcelon’s view that government initiatives to reduce harmful emissions and create a sustainable environment are worthy of our support. Even though the Philippines contributes very little harmful emissions on a global scale, it is still right and proper—and ultimately in our own best interests—that we do all we can to reduce our impact on the environment.