RENDER Hosts Climate & Energy Convening at DMMMSU North Campus, Bacnotan, La Union

Bacnotan, La Union—Last August 30, key stakeholders, environmental advocates, concerned citizens, and students gathered at the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) to listen and learn about the critical importance of youth action and active citizenry in opposing coal-fired power projects and promoting renewable energy, particularly in a coastal community like theirs, La Union. 

Students are eager to become more informed and greatly involved in promoting Renewable Energy efforts in La Union and advocating for fossil fuel divestment efforts. The convening focused on the efforts and involvement of the speakers in resisting the proposed 670-megawatt coal-fired power plant (CFPP) in Luna, one of the towns in La Union province. 

With the theme, "RENDER: Moving Past Fossil Fuels, Envisioning LU’s Future," the event was aimed at informing students and young professionals about the environmental and social risks posed by coal power, while also inspiring them to champion sustainable energy solutions. The discussions underscored that shifting to renewable energy is a whole community effort which can only be done by the partnership of all sectors involved - government, the students, the private sector, the local coalitions and organizations, and of course its constituents. 

The event commenced with an introduction to climate mitigation by Mr. Tonichi Regalado. In his talk, he highlighted the importance of communicating climate language in a way that the students can understand. He explained the various elements exacerbating climate change such as excessive greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels and other human initiated activities. To combat it, he put an emphasis on gradually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy sources. 

The convening also featured notable speakers who brought diverse perspectives on the issue. Ms. Mickey Galang from Lupon ng mga Indibidwal na Nangangalaga ng Kalikasan, Inc. (LINK) talked about the "Youth Approach & Involvement in Fossil Fuel Divestment Efforts," highlighting how young people are leading the charge in advocating for divestment from fossil fuels. She emphasized the role of the youth in driving systemic change and raising awareness about the long-term impacts of having a coal power plant on the environment and public health. 

Mr. Cris Palabay, founder of the Koalisyon Isalbar ti Pintas ti La Union (Coalition to Save the Beauty of La Union), spoke on "Safeguarding La Union: Mobilizing Communities for Climate Justice and Environmental Protection." He discussed the coalition’s efforts to rally local communities against the CFPP, stressing the importance of collective action in protecting La Union's natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

Prof. Celso H. Jucutan, Director for Environmental Concerns, Sustainability and Development at DMMMSU (as well as CEO of LINK), focused on "Reviving Coastal Resilience: Mangrove Conservation and Restoration Efforts in La Union." While he covered the significance of mangrove ecosystems in coastal resilience, he also highlighted the vital role of the youth in raising awareness of environmental issues in La Union. Jucutan praised the younger generation for their proactive stance in environmental conservation, which is crucial in the fight against destructive projects like the CFPP. 

The event concluded with a panel discussion where participants engaged with the speakers and shared strategies for mobilizing communities and advocating for policy changes in La Union and an interactive activity to help the student participants verbalize their visions and aspirations for their beloved province in the renewable energy landscape.