The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued a bold mandate, requiring mining companies to weave the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations into their social development and management programs (SDMPs). This move, spearheaded by Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, is a significant shift in the mining sector, compelling firms to integrate sustainability efforts, including biodiversity conservation and climate action, into their core operations. “We’re also looking at labor practices, gender equity, social services, along with reforestation, rehabilitation, restoration of ecosystems to address biodiversity loss,” Loyzaga stated, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the new directive.
This initiative aligns with President Marcos’ call for the responsible use of the country’s natural resources for sustainable development. The goal is clear: to enhance the well-being of communities hosting mining operations and to ensure stronger environmental safeguards. Loyzaga emphasized, “The goal is to ensure that the wealth generated from mineral extraction is shared equitably, that ecosystems are protected and that local communities gain empowerment.” This directive is not just about compliance; it’s about transforming the mining industry into a force for sustainable development.
The 17 UN SDGs, adopted by all member countries, serve as a global blueprint to end extreme poverty, reduce inequality, and protect the planet by 2030. These goals include eradicating poverty and hunger, improving health and well-being, ensuring quality education, promoting gender equality, providing clean water and sanitation, ensuring affordable and clean energy, fostering decent work and economic growth, reducing inequalities, building sustainable cities and communities, promoting responsible consumption and production, and taking climate action. The SDMP, a five-year comprehensive plan, requires mining companies to allocate 1.5 percent of their operating expenses toward projects and programs for the sustained improvement of living standards in host and neighboring communities.
The DENR’s new order expands the scope of SDMPs, compelling mining firms to implement programs that address climate change, environmental protection, and socioeconomic development. Of the 1.5-percent allocation, 10 percent is dedicated to information, education, and communication programs; 15 percent toward advancing mining technology and geosciences; and 75 percent for direct projects implemented by local governments, including infrastructure projects, health centers, water supply systems, scholarships, and livelihood programs. From 2002 to 2027, the total approved SDMP commitment has reached P28 billion, with P17.7 billion allotted from 2002 to 2022. These funds have supported a range of initiatives, from livelihood programs and educational grants to health-care services, public infrastructure, and sociocultural initiatives across various mining communities.
Industry players have welcomed the latest directive. The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) stated that they have been addressing at least 11 of the 17 UN SDGs through its “Towards Sustainable Mining” (TSM) initiative. “This is on top of the goals that we are already concentrating on with the ESG provisions of our country’s very stringent mining regulatory framework,” COMP chair Michael Toledo said. “We like to think that we are in tune with the times and our members are ready to contribute their share to meet the global demand for green technologies through sustainable mining practices,” he added.
Listed Global Ferronickel Holdings Inc. also reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable mining practices. “We are proud to say that we are very much aligned with the UN SDGs through our annual SDMP and (environmental protection and enhancement program), plus our corporate social responsibility programs,” Global Ferronickel president Dante Bravo said. This alignment with the UN SDGs is not just a regulatory requirement but a strategic move to ensure the mining sector’s long-term viability and positive impact on society and the environment.
This news shapes the development in the sector by setting a new standard for sustainability. Mining companies are no longer just extractive entities; they are now expected to be agents of sustainable development. This shift could spur innovation in mining technologies, enhance community engagement, and drive a more equitable distribution of wealth generated from mineral extraction. The integration of the UN SDGs into SDMPs could also attract more investment, as companies that prioritize sustainability are increasingly seen as more stable and responsible. This move by the DENR is a bold step towards a more sustainable and equitable mining industry, one that not only extracts resources but also contributes to the well-being of communities and the environment.