Joining global efforts for 'generation restoration' on World Environment Day 2024

MANILA, Philippines — In support of the United Nations' call to restore ecosystems, Okada Manila joined the global community in celebrating World Environment Day 2024, with this year’s theme, “Generation Restoration.”

The focus is on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, emphasizing the urgent need to revive natural spaces for a sustainable future.

Global threat to ecosystems

Ecosystems worldwide, including forests, farmlands and lakes, are under threat and reaching a tipping point. This year's World Environment Day highlights land restoration, desertification, and building drought resilience with the slogan, “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration.”

This generation is the first to witness severe environmental degradation and the last with the chance to counter it and achieve global climate and biodiversity goals.

Key environment-friendly initiatives

Several key initiatives have been implemented to demonstrate dedication to environmental stewardship:

Land restoration

• Tree planting activities: Partnering with organizations like Nuvali, ABS-CBN Bantay Kalikasan, and the Motolite-PBSP Balik Baterya program, tree planting efforts have contributed to reforestation in critical areas such as the Marikina Watershed and La Mesa Dam.
• Plant propagation: A nursery propagates and grows plants for internal and external landscapes, replacing damaged plants and serving as a recuperation area for indoor plants.

Marine restoration

• Coastal cleanups: Coastal cleanups of Manila Bay were organized in 2018 and another drive in September 2023, showing commitment to marine life preservation.
• Zero water waste: Utilizing advanced sewage treatment and ultra-filtration system technology, achieving zero water waste discharge, ensuring that water used in operations is treated and recycled.

Sustainable practices, green spaces

• The Garden: Featuring Japanese pocket gardens and a gazebo overlooking Manila Bay, enhancing dining and strolling experiences.
• The Zen Garden: Designed for relaxation and meditation, creating harmony and tranquility.
• The Herb Garden: Growing herbs used by The Retreat Spa, maintained organically to avoid contamination.
• The Winter Garden: Featuring the Giant Fern, adding to the forest-like atmosphere.
• The Tropics at Cove Manila: Creating a tropical atmosphere with lush plants, pebbles, and white sand, enhancing the indoor pool experience.

"At Okada Manila, we are committed to building and designing an integrated resort that balances economic, environmental, and social considerations to ensure long-term viability and positive impacts," said Byron Yip, president and chief operating officer of Okada Manila.

"This means adopting environmentally friendly practices, managing resources efficiently, and reducing waste and carbon footprints to combat pollution and climate change. We have the power and the knowledge to reverse the harm and restore the environment – if we act now," he added.