CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In a bid to foster informed environmental discussions and empower its members, MASS-SPECC Cooperative Development Center has officially launched the Sustainable Co-operatives (SCOOPS) Program. 

The unveiling took place during an impactful environmental forum named “Let’s Go SCOOPS: Managing Environmental Awareness and Action in the Co-operative Movement” on October 28, 2023, at the Dynasty Court Hotel in CDO. 

The SCOOPS Program, devised under the dedicated commitment to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 13, specifically targeting Climate Action, aims to steer the co-operative movement towards environmental stewardship.

Addressing climate crises

The forum participated by 111 attendees from 53 co-operatives featured prominent figures in climate action, such as environmental expert Annalyn Mejares and Pat Pangantihon from the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice. 

Mejares delved deep into the critical aspects of environmental awareness in the context of climate change. Her comprehensive discussion spanned the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate shifts, and the imperative need for heightened consciousness regarding these issues. 

She explained the intricate links between human activities, such as rampant industrialization and unsustainable practices, and the escalating climate crises witnessed worldwide. Her presentation emphasized the urgent necessity for widespread awareness and proactive measures to address these ecological challenges.

On the other hand, Pangantihon tackled the pressing topic of “Climate Justice and Climate Crisis: What Future?” showing the disparities in climate impacts and the disproportionate burden borne by marginalized communities. 

Pangantihon’s thought-provoking discussion resonated with the need for a future that prioritizes justice, fairness, and inclusivity in the face of the unfolding climate crisis.

Both presentations not only raised awareness but also spurred attendees to contemplate actionable strategies and societal responsibilities in mitigating the impacts of climate change while striving for a more equitable and sustainable future. 

 Leading role in SCOOPS

The SCOOPS Program marks a groundbreaking initiative, signaling a new era of sustainability within the co-operative sector, empowering co-ops to take a leading role in advocating for sustainability.

With the guiding theme of “Promoting Environmental Awareness and Action in the Co-operative Movement,” this initiative equips co-operatives with essential knowledge and tools to bring about tangible changes in combating climate change.

The program’s objectives include reducing environmental footprints, making informed decisions prioritizing sustainability, and actively contributing to global efforts against climate change.

Highlighting the urgency, MASS-SPECC CEO Bernadette Toledo emphasized the Philippines’ vulnerability, ranking as the third most disaster-prone country in the world, and contributing significantly to global ocean plastic waste.

“Given these pressing challenges, it is imperative that we, as cooperative enterprises, actively contribute to mitigating and managing the destructive effects of climate change on the lives and livelihoods of our people,” Toledo shared. 

“This responsibility extends not only to our present members but also to future generations and as value-based enterprises, it is our duty to partake in these efforts.”

Co-operatives in climate action

In 2022, the Co-operative Movement Strategic Plan was approved, which aims to foster the growth and prosperity of co-operative enterprises.

“It is vital to ensure that this growth is inclusive, benefiting all members and improving their overall well-being and quality of life, particularly those who are less privileged among us,” shares Toledo.

SCOOPS, beyond being a mere program, stands as a “catalyst for transformation” for embodying a commitment to building a community of “environmentally conscious co-operatives dedicated toward a more sustainable and resilient future.”

MASS-SPECC aims to track the number of co-ops that embrace the SCOOPS program, which promotes sustainable practices. 

“By adhering to these principles and working collectively towards our objectives, we can forge a path towards a more sustainable future for our co-operative movement and pave the way for the holistic well-being of our members and communities,” Toledo shared.