MANILA, Philippines - Business and policy leaders will get together in Manila this month to debate how to protect the Coral Triangle, the world’s most diverse marine environment.
The summit, organized by the Philippine government and WWF will be held on Jan. 19 to 20. It willl outline business opportunities for key sectors operating in the region encompassing Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands and TimorLeste.
It will also provide a platform for financial support and investment for businesses willing to commit to sustainability and green growth. Covering just one percent of the earth’s surface, the Coral Triangle includes 30 percent of the world’s coral reefs, 76 per cent of its reef building coral species as well as vital spawning grounds for tuna.
The region sustains the lives of more than 120 million people, along with thousands of small and medium businesses that heavily rely on healthy marine environments and resources. But the Coral Triangle is under threat from over-exploitation, environmental degradation, poverty, and global economic recession – all compounded by severe climate change.
“By inviting sectors that rely on a healthy marine environment in the Coral Triangle, as well as the tourism, communications, and investment sectors, this Business Summit will contribute to the pursuit of sustainable business development and investment,” said Manuel Gerochi, undersecretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
The summit will place special emphasis on the growing demand for ‘green’ products globally, which can drive sustainability in supply chains within the Coral Triangle.
For more information, visit www.ctibusinesssummit.net or call the CTI secretariat at +632.893.5642.