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Media efforts to inculcate in public consciousness
the value of renewable energy sources are making headway, a study
conducted by lobby group RE Coalition found.
The group’s report presented
before energy officials and media showed that a total of 1490
articles and discourses on renewable energy have found their way
into print and the Internet within the period November 2006 to
November 2007.
The output from mainstream media,
which came to an average of 99 articles a month, peaked in April and
November 2007.
An average of 30.6 conversations
was also observed in social media channels such as YouTube,
Multiply, Blogger and other Internet-based resources over the last
five months.
When translated to audience
reach, media content on renewable energy has a potential to reach at
least two million people everyday.
The Word on RE report is a
comprehensive audit of mainstream media articles and social media
conversations on renewable energy over the covered period.
“What are people really saying
about renewable energy? Renewable energy can bring a lot of good to
the country by the immense benefits it offers, as shown by existing
renewable energy projects,” RE Coalition said.
Renewable energy sources such as
solar power and wind are relatively cleaner than their fossil fuel
counterparts whose emissions have been blamed for the world’s
deteriorating environment. These sources are also indigenous, which
can help the country cut spendings on expensive oil imports.
The group said that coverage on
mainstream media reflects the sentiment that renewable energy is a
viable means for the country to achieve energy security and reduce
the Philippines’ dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Meanwhile, social media
conversations, which are primarily exchanges among the youth,
perceive renewable energy as mitigating factor in reducing the
negative impact of climate change.
“The youth recognizes the need
for cleaner and more efficient energy sources that will not
contribute to global warming and adversely affect the
environment,” RE Coalition added.
As a whole, renewable energy is
largely seen as a practical solution to address the twin concerns of
energy security and climate change.
The group’s study also showed
more people are convinced that renewable energy will bring increased
investments in the Philippines’ energy sector, added support to
initiatives for growth and development in the country and provision
of power to small communities and off-grid areas.
In light of the study’s
findings, the RE Coalition called on the government to heed the
voice of the people and immediately pass the RE Bill, which has been
pending in Congress for nearly a decade.
The bill seeks to provide
incentives, an encouraging policy environment and market rules as
well as spur the development of renewable energy resources.
--Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo
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