THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority conducted a forum last October to highlight the importance of technical and vocational training in pursuing a “green” economy.

“Together, we can shape a TVET system that nurtures a green economy, one that not only safeguards our environment but also provides sustainable livelihoods for generations to come,” TESDA Director General Suharto Mangudadatu told the participants who included key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, environmental organizations and international bodies.

He emphasized that industries play a vital role in shaping the country’s economic landscape, as their expertise and experiences will provide valuable insights in integrating green practices and creating green jobs.

Among the topics discussed in the forum titled “Green Initiatives for Greening the Economy” were National Green Jobs Human Resources Development Plan, Database of Green Jobs in the Philippines, Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003), and Solid Waste Management and Green Practices.

Also tackled were Public Transport Modernization and Active Transport Promotion, Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technologies for Sustainable Transport, Nuclear Energy, and Waste-to-Energy Technology.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, a green economy is “one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities”.

TESDA has initiated programs that promote environmental protection, sustain biodiversity, and minimize, if not prevent, environmental degradation.

In August 2018, TESDA issued Circular No. 58 defining guidelines for Greening the TVET system, resulting in the formulation and implementation of TESDA’s training regulations aimed to promote green technology.

Among these training regulations are pest management, photovoltaic systems, hydroponics, vertical gardening, carbon emissions, and seaweed farming.