BAGUIO CITY is focusing on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, improving waste management and promoting sustainable development in its environmental plan for 2025 to 2028.
The plan, which is now part of the city's executive legislative agenda being finalized, aims to make Baguio cleaner, greener and more climate resilient.
Baguio City targets a 5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 10% reduction in landfill waste from 300 tons to 270 tons per day based on 2026 levels. About P100 million has been set aside to complete the central material recovery facility and create three more barangay waste centers to promote recycling and reduce landfill usage.
The city also plans to work with the European Union and the United Nations Development Program on a project that encourages residents to change waste disposal habits.
Rehabilitation of damaged sewer lines and adding 5,000 new domestic connections as well as upgrading sewage and septage facilities are also planned. The city wants to reach a 70% collection rate for sanitation and environment charges by 2028.
For hazardous waste, the local government plans to establish a proper collection and disposal system by 2028. It will collect data on hazardous materials, explore better handling of e-waste and used oil, and enact an ordinance to strengthen waste programs at the barangay level.
Air quality and urban forest management will continue under the CLEAR Baguio strategy, which includes real-time air monitoring, a comprehensive tree registry, and citizen participation. By 2028, the city hopes to launch a smart platform that links air and forest data, with at least 90% of stakeholders actively involved.
Water security and green space are also priorities. The city aims to increase its water supply to 3,500 cubic meters per day through system improvements and waterway rehabilitation.
Parks such as Burnham Park and Mines View Park will be redeveloped from 2025 to 2027. By 2028, Baguio plans to complete a network of well-maintained parks and fully implement its new Green Building Ordinance to promote environmentally friendly construction across the city. – Artemio A. Dumlao
