19 Aug SPIK Hosts Successful Webinar on Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
On August 16, 2024, the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK) successfully hosted the third edition of its webinar series, themed Sustain 2024: Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability. This digital gathering attracted a diverse crowd of approximately sixty enthusiastic participants, eager to delve into the critical intersection of chemistry and the environment. The event catered to a specialized audience of chemical and mechanical engineers, offering them an invaluable opportunity to acquire 3 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) units. Skillfully moderated by Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, the webinar transpired into a dynamic and enlightening session, leaving the attendees with a profound sense of intellectual fulfillment and professional growth.
The webinar commenced with an opening prayer by Ms. Antonette Fallarme, SPIK Executive Officer followed by a welcome remark by Ms. Mary Grace San Jose, the Director of SPIK and the Lead for the SPIK Education, Research, and Innovation Committee, often revered as SERIC.
The webinar highlighted five topics, each presented by experts in their field. It began with a talk by Commissioner Crispian Lao, who holds the positions of Vice Chairman of the National Solid Waste Management Commission and Private Sector Representative for the Recycling Industry at the Office of the President of the Philippines. His presentation highlighted the pressing challenges of climate change and the industry’s transition to a circular economy, emphasizing the private sector’s role in championing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives.
Following this enlightening talk, Ms. Maria Celina Anonuevo, Senior Manager at Risk Advisory – Climate and Sustainability for Landicho Abela & Co., delved into the details of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Accounting. Ms. Anonuevo elucidated the rigorous criteria that underpin GHG accounting, offering a comprehensive understanding of this critical aspect of environmental stewardship.
The third topic, Life Cycle Assessment, was expertly presented by Engr. Rey L. Esguerra, Chief of the Environmental and Biotechnology Division at DOST-ITDI. Engr. Esguerra not only explained the fundamental concepts of LCA but also provided compelling examples of its successful application in various industries.
The fourth session showcased the commendable efforts of SPIK member companies. Engr. Stanley Siahetiong, Energy Transition Manager for Shell Pilipinas, shared his company’s groundbreaking initiatives under the banner of Powering Progress. His discussion centered on Shell’s ambitious Net Zero Project and the multifaceted corporate social responsibilities they have embraced to combat climate change.
Closing the online seminar was Mr. Alexander Fiedler, the Sustainable Finance Lead at BASF, who presented an enriching discussion on Sustainability at BASF. Mr. Fiedler offered an in-depth look into BASF’s innovative approaches to environmental protection and sustainable practices within their operations.
The online seminar ended with a closing message by Engr. Reinier Jay C. Bagabay, who served as both a Director and Responsible Care Chairperson. The SPIK webinar series has consistently proven to be a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and networking. By convening industry leaders and professionals, SPIK continues to boost the chemical sector towards a greener and more sustainable future. The overwhelming success of this webinar is a testament to the association’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability.