It's not rocket science, but sustainability is an essential matter that we should focus on for a better and greener future. It is a concept that connects environmental protection, economic growth, and social responsibility. As the world’s population continues to grow and natural resources become more limited, adopting sustainable practices is no longer optional because it is essential for long-term survival and balance.
Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity are clear signs that unsustainable practices are causing serious harm to the planet. Beyond the environment, sustainability also promotes social equity and economic stability by ensuring that communities have access to clean water, safe food, decent work, and healthy living conditions.
Explore the 17 SDGs: The Roadmap to a Better World
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global call to action created by the United Nations to address the world’s most pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. They serve as a shared roadmap for ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring peace and prosperity for all by 2030. Understanding the SDGs is important because they show how governments, organizations, and individuals can work together to create a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.
The five foundation pillars of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the 5 Ps, are the core areas that guide global sustainability efforts:
- People – Focuses on ending poverty and hunger and ensuring that all people live with dignity, equality, and access to basic needs like health, education, and safety.
- Planet – Aims to protect the Earth’s natural resources and fight climate change to ensure a healthy environment for present and future generations.
- Prosperity – Seeks to ensure that everyone can enjoy a good quality of life through sustainable economic growth, decent jobs, and innovation without harming the planet.
- Peace – Promotes peaceful, just, and inclusive societies where people are safe, human rights are protected, and strong institutions are upheld.
- Partnership – Emphasizes the importance of global cooperation among governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals to achieve all the SDGs together.
Your Role in Creating a More Sustainable World
Everyone has a role to play in improving sustainability, and even small actions can create meaningful change. Here are some small and practical ways that even an ordinary person like you can help:
1. PEOPLE
- Donate clothes, food, or school supplies to those in need.
- Avoid food waste and share extra food when possible.
- Support local farmers and small businesses.
- Promote kindness, respect, and equality in daily life.
- Volunteer in community, school, or charity programs.
2. PLANET
- Save water and electricity at home.
- Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
- Segregate waste and recycle properly.
- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Plant trees or take care of plants.
3. PROSPERITY
- Support eco-friendly and ethical brands.
- Use public transport, walk, or bike when possible.
- Learn new skills that support green jobs or businesses.
- Buy only what you need to avoid overconsumption.
- Encourage sustainable practices at school or work.
4. PEACE
- Be honest, responsible, and law-abiding.
- Treat others with fairness and respect.
- Speak up against bullying, violence, and injustice.
- Participate in community programs and decision-making.
- Promote unity and understanding among people.
5. PARTNERSHIP
- Join or support environmental and social organizations.
- Share information about sustainability with friends and family.
- Participate in clean-up drives and community projects.
- Support school or local sustainability campaigns.
- Work together with others to create positive change.
BDO’s Sustainable Initiatives for a Better and Greener World
BDO’s commitment to building a greener and more sustainable future is deeply rooted in its Sustainability Philosophy, which integrates responsible practices into every aspect of its business—from decision-making and partnerships to product development.
Guided by its Sustainability Framework and Sustainability Contribution Strategy, BDO advances national development goals through financial inclusion and impact financing in renewable energy, infrastructure, eco-friendly solutions, green facilities, and disaster resilience.
BDO’s approach to sustainability is built on five key focus areas that guide how the Bank creates long-term value for people, communities, and the environment. These include developing sustainable financial products, strengthening community impact, investing in people and workforce development, enhancing disaster preparedness and response, and upholding strong governance and ethical practices. Together, these strategies reflect BDO’s commitment to responsible banking and its role in helping shape a more resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines.
- Sustainable Products Strategy
- Community and Impact Strategy
- People and Workforce Strategy
- Disaster Preparedness and Response Strategy
- Good Governance and Ethics Strategy
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