ARTHALAND Champions Sustainable Development and Low-Carbon Construction

ARTHALAND's Head of Sustainability, Ar. Kristina Samantha S. Pobre, took center stage at the Manila Bulletin Sustainability Forum at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Representing the country’s foremost sustainable developer, she highlighted ARTHALAND’s achievement of having 100% of its projects globally certified as sustainable. These efforts continue to set a benchmark for green development, contributing significantly to global climate goals while delivering tangible benefits to communities and the economy.

The Paris Agreement emphasizes the urgent need to limit global warming to 1.5°C, calling for a 45% reduction in emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. In line with this, the Philippines has committed to cutting its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 75%, focusing on energy and waste sectors under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). ARTHALAND supports this commitment by championing sustainable construction practices that reduce emissions and set high standards for environmentally responsible business operations.

A significant milestone in ARTHALAND’s sustainability journey was the EDGE Zero Carbon certification of the ARTHALAND Century Pacific Tower in Bonifacio Global City in 2019, recognized by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank. This certification reflects the company’s progress in fulfilling its pledge to decarbonize its operational portfolio by 2030, with initiatives aligned to the 1.5°C global warming threshold, guided by Science-Based Targets.

Each project is designed to achieve at least 20% energy, water, and materials savings compared to conventional developments and operates using renewable energy. This approach has been crucial in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, leading to an 80% reduction across the portfolio in 2023, advancing the company’s climate goals.

A key area of focus is the carbon footprint of construction materials like cement and steel, which are widely used in the Philippines and contribute significantly to emissions. To address this, the company is pioneering research into bamboo—a rapidly renewable material with strong potential for building structural applications. Bamboo’s fast growth cycle and carbon-absorbing capabilities make it a low-carbon alternative to energy-intensive materials like cement and steel. Through its Research & Development projects, ARTHALAND is driving innovation in sustainable construction practices, contributing to the nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

"I urge students, educators, and industry leaders to take action and champion research into bamboo as a mainstream building material," said Ar. Pobre. "Academic institutions have a pivotal role in driving this transformation, fostering innovation, and developing the skills and knowledge needed to influence the market and advocate for legislative support to make bamboo a viable, sustainable construction solution."

As the Philippines works to bridge global climate ambitions with local action, ARTHALAND exemplifies how innovation and commitment can achieve the transition to a low-carbon economy. By turning global goals into concrete outcomes, the company remains dedicated to building a greener, more sustainable future.

ARTHALAND is the only real estate developer in the Philippines with a residential and commercial portfolio 100% certified as sustainable by local and global organizations. It has made its mark in the Philippine real estate industry by pioneering the development and management of exceptional best-in-class properties that adhere to international and local standards.

For more information about ARTHALAND, please visit www.arthaland.com.