Annually, on October 24th, International Day of Climate Action is celebrated to raise awareness regarding the urgent need to address climate change. Multiple studies report that human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to this problem. Additionally, all sectors must now find an alternative packaging to plastic. 

Let’s explore the importance of international cooperation in climate action, examples of successful initiatives, and how individuals, communities, eco-friendly businesses, and governments can collectively fight against climate change.

The Role of International Cooperation and Policy in International Day of Climate Action

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that international cooperation is necessary in this manner because it’s a global problem shared by all nations; therefore, cooperation will give rise to more opportunities for successful mitigation of climate change, economically as well.

Paris Agreement

The 2015 Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change adopted by 196 countries. It set a framework for them to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. Participating countries communicate their action plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Successful Climate Action Initiatives

According to the Global Climate Action, over 20,000 eco-friendly businesses worldwide contribute to climate change initiatives. In addition, with the International Day of Climate Action, the goal is to increase this number. Examples of successful initiatives are:

Renewable Energy Transition (Denmark)

Due to an oil crisis in the ‘70s, Denmark developed its wind and solar power resources. Today, 50% of their electricity is supplied by wind and solar energies, to be 100% fossil-fuel-free by 2030.

The Carbon Disclosure Project

CDP is a non-profit charity running a global disclosure system for companies, cities, and governments to manage their environmental impact and carbon emissions. Furthermore, they have over 1,100 participating entities, offering transparency in climate action and leading to an increase in sustainable business practices.

Break Free From Plastic Movement

Plastic pollution is linked to climate change due to its high contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This global movement, participated by more than 13,000 organizations and individuals, aims to reduce plastic pollution by advocating for zero-waste lifestyles and holding corporations accountable, shifting them to biodegradable packaging for business.

Ways to contribute to International Day of Climate Action

Our collective actions are needed to combat climate change successfully. Here are some ways to celebrate International Day of Climate Action:

• Raise awareness campaigns through social media
• Participate in clean-up events or tree-planting activities in your community
• Reduce energy usage and support renewable energy (i.e. solar, wind, or hydropower)
• Avoid using single-use plastics
• Use eco-friendly plastic alternatives made of cassava starch or other compostable materials.

Our simple efforts, when combined, will bring us closer to achieving a greener future.

Oikos, Setting an Example

Oikos Sustainable Solutions is a sustainable business in the Philippines that provides alternative packaging to plastic to individuals and other eco-friendly businesses in the Philippines. Finally, we have customizable cassava starch bags and corn bags that are 100% plant-based and 0% plastic. Learn more about our products here.