Cebu City is a vibrant and progressive urban center located in the Philippines. Mainly known for its cultural heritage, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. Cebu City has been making great efforts in fostering sustainable living for its residents.

As it recognizes the urgent need to address environmental challenges, sustainability in Cebu City has been embedded in various aspects of governance and urban development. Since then, the city has embraced a holistic approach that integrates eco-consciousness into its policies, infrastructure, and community engagement.

Cebu City’s bold efforts in sustainability

In 2006, Cebu City was ranked the second most polluted city in the country. Not only that, but it was also among the top six cities in the Philippines most vulnerable to climate change. As a response to these concerns, the city’s government has taken proactive measures to address these alarming issues. These include green initiatives like the introduction of a ‘Carless Day’ and the establishment of effective waste management programs.

One of the key pillars of the city’s sustainable living is its comprehensive waste management system. Since 2014, it has developed robust waste management efforts to achieve immediate reductions in climate pollutants.

One of the most populated cities in the Philippines, its government implemented projects and waste separation at source and collection. This includes the promotion of landfill improvement, recycling, and the promotion of composting for organic waste recycling.

To assist these initiatives, a city exchange was organized between Kitakyushu City, an environmental model city situated In Japan. The partnership was hoped to offer guidance and technical assistance to Cebu as it kickstarts its efforts to being a green city.

More recently, the 2021 capital city mayor, Michael Rama, has announced a people-driven solid waste management action plan to address the longstanding garbage problem in Cebu. He emphasized the need to prevent environmental degradation by creating effective systems to discourage the indiscriminate throwing of garbage. By involving the community and fostering a sense of shared responsibility, the aim is to attain a cleaner and more sustainable city.

Environmental conservation.

Being the main economic stronghold outside Luzon premises. Metro Cebu has immediately recognized the need for green initiatives as it rapidly became dense and urbanized through the years. Despite opening great opportunities for both residents and locals, an in-depth report from the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) maintains that sustainable real estate in Cebu should be pushed to keep up with the rapid urban sprawl. At the same time, this should be done while minimizing negative environmental externalities or unsustainable consumption of environmental assets.

Car-less day

In 2017, the city government implemented a Car-less day as an initiative to reduce air pollution – one which is primarily caused by vehicle emissions. During Car-less days, residents go back to basics and are encouraged to walk or bike to their respective destinations. The program yielded positive results, demonstrating an improvement in the Metro’s ambient air quality. The continuous monitoring revealed that the average TSP levels were measured at 60 micrograms per cubic meter, indicating that the air quality is within a safe range.

Plastic ban

Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena has also officially implemented a memorandum banning single-use plastics in all government offices. As part of the initiative for sustainability in Cebu City, food vendors are now prohibited from using plastic bags, straws, containers, cups, and utensils when serving food to visitors and employees. Instead, officials are strongly encouraged to bring their own reusable containers.

Plantable Pencils

Besides government-driven projects, other non-government organizations and individuals have also launched initiatives to assist in the cause. One of these is Eco-hub’s plantable pencils, which are pencils that grow back into trees and plants when planted. This allows a new lease on life when the pencil is thrown away, ultimately becoming a great symbol of sustainability.

Choosing a green real estate

Efforts of sustainability in Cebu City showcase its dedication to protecting its natural heritage and promoting a sustainable future for residents. Because of this, the city has become an ideal destination for those looking to invest in premium green real estate.

Johndorf Ventures recognizes the importance of environmentally conscious living and the growing demand for eco-friendly properties. With Johndorf, you not only get to secure a quality living space but also find an ideal home that also contributes to the preservation of the environment. Enjoy the benefits of a sustainable lifestyle and reserve a property in Johndorf Ventures today and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter.