THE Provincial Government of Pampanga, in partnership with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (Penro) and SM City Pampanga, hosted a fun run Friday, June 28, in a bid to promote clean environment and pollution-free air this environment month of June.
The event dubbed “Takbo Kapampangan para sa Malinis na Kapaligiran” featured 2.5-kilometer and 5-kilometer runs.
Earlier, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Luzon has been calling on the public to join in the campaign for clean air by wearing facemasks.
“As we observe Philippine Environment Month, we are calling on everyone to join the Mask Challenge,” the DENR said. The DENR added that a “facemask” is a great symbol to show our desire that we want to breathe clean air, and that we really want to #BeatAirPollution.
The DENR here is encouraging participants to take a photo or video wearing a mask to post on social media.
“In your post share the action you’ll take to reduce air pollution. Don’t forget to tag your friends to do the same challenge. Use #WorldEnvironmentDay and #BeatAirPollution in your social media posts and don’t forget to tag @UNEnvironment and @DENRCentralLuzon,” the DENR said.
The DENR also urged the public to take concrete action to prevent air pollution by using public transport or car sharing as well as cycling or walking whenever possible. The DENR is also encouraging a switch to hybrid or electric vehicles.
Turning off the car engine when stationary; reducing your consumption of meat and dairy to help cut methane emissions; composting organic food items and recycle non-organic trash; switching to high-efficiency home heating systems and equipment; tuning off lights and electronics when not in use and choosing non-toxic paints and furnishings are just among the steps that could be taken to help promote clean air.