Battling Climate Shifts

Climate change poses a significant threat to the city and province of Iloilo, affecting its economy, food security, tourism, and public health.

As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, it is crucial to examine these vulnerabilities and explore best practices to mitigate the effects.

Iloilo’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture and fisheries, faces severe disruptions due to climate change. Increasing temperatures and altered precipitation patterns result in crop yield losses and affect fish populations. The expected increase in consecutive dry days and decrease in annual rainfall will likely exacerbate drought conditions, making water resources scarcer and agriculture more challenging.

Food security in Iloilo is at risk as climate change affects crop productivity. According to IPCC reports, a temperature increase of just one degree Celsius can lead to a 3-7% yield loss for major crops. Additionally, changes in sea surface temperature can impact marine ecosystems, reducing fish catches and affecting the local diet, which heavily relies on seafood.

Iloilo’s tourism industry is vulnerable to extreme weather events and rising sea levels. Typhoons, which are expected to become fewer but more intense, can cause significant damage to infrastructure and natural attractions, deterring tourists. Coastal erosion and flooding also threaten popular tourist spots, impacting the local economy dependent on tourism revenue.

Climate change poses direct and indirect threats to public health in Iloilo. Heatwaves increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Changes in climate patterns can also exacerbate the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue fever, as warmer temperatures and increased rainfall create favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.

Water scarcity, resulting from droughts, can lead to poor sanitation and hygiene, increasing the incidence of water-borne diseases. The health system in Iloilo must be prepared to address these emerging challenges by enhancing capacity and resilience.

To address these vulnerabilities, Iloilo must adopt comprehensive strategies that include both mitigation and adaptation measures.

Dr. Jessica Dator-Bercilla, one of the foremost scholars and authors on climate change and resiliency, enumerated some best practices that can help cushion the effects of climate change:

1. Climate-Resilient Agriculture:

Implementing climate-resilient farming techniques can help mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture. This includes diversifying crops to enhance food security, adopting drought-resistant crop varieties, and utilizing water-saving irrigation techniques. The Climate Field Schools in Dumangas, Iloilo, serve as a good model for educating farmers on these practices.

2. Urban Planning and Infrastructure Development:

Developing resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events is crucial. This involves constructing flood defenses, improving drainage systems, and designing buildings to resist typhoon-force winds. Urban planning should also consider green spaces that can act as buffers against urban heat islands and provide cooling effects.

3. Renewable Energy and Green Economy:

Transitioning to renewable energy sources can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a green economy. Iloilo can invest in solar and wind energy projects, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating sustainable job opportunities. The Bio-Circular-Green Economy approach promotes sustainable production and consumption patterns, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency.

4. Health Sector Preparedness:

Strengthening the health sector’s capacity to respond to climate-related health issues is essential. This includes improving disease surveillance systems, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, and educating the public on health risks associated with climate change. Healthcare facilities should also be prepared to handle increased cases of heat-related illnesses and vector-borne diseases.

5. Community Engagement and Education:

Raising awareness and engaging communities in climate action are vital for building resilience. Programs like “Plant Back Better,” which involve local governments, communities, and organizations, promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. Education campaigns can empower citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices and participate in disaster preparedness initiatives.

The vulnerabilities of Iloilo City and province to climate change are clear, but with proactive measures and community involvement, these impacts can be mitigated.

By embracing climate-resilient agriculture, developing resilient infrastructure, transitioning to a green economy, strengthening health sector preparedness, and engaging the community, Iloilo can build a more sustainable and resilient future.

Addressing climate change is not just an environmental imperative but a socio-economic necessity to protect the livelihoods and well-being of its residents.