FQCM Report for 2021-2022
Green Activities & Environment
1. Your expectations to make a difference during Jul.-Oct.?-Update on Progress
The solar on the roof of the Makati YMCA in the Philippines is the most exciting project related to Green activities at the moment. The Asia Pacific Area has contribued US$10,000 toward the approx US$50,000 cost of the 50kW solar PV system. Y's Men International also contributed CHF10,000 toward this project, from its 'carbon offset' fund. This solar rooftop system will reduce the Makati YMCA's electricity bill and also the greenhouse gases from the use of electricity from fossil fuel burning power stations.
2. Step taken to-date to achieve Goals and Key Target 2021/2022
The Area Green Team & Social Enterprises Task Force shall meet and plan how to implement and make full use of the revolving fund for other projects, similar to solar at Makati YMCA.
3. Share 1 or 2 Key Activities that have made/will make a difference
The international talks, called COP26, at Glasgow, Scotland is hopefully making many more people aware of the humanitarian crisis that we are likely to confront because of a lack of action.
4. Challenges
COVID has had huge financial impact on some Y's Men, but its impact on YMCAs in many parts of the world has been considerable. The immediate financial survival of a YMCA has been the main concern of many YMCAs, rather than the challenges created by climate change, which are just over the horizon. Unfortunately, there will be more problems sooner than would otherwise be the case, for example severe weather events, etc. No doubt these will impact on the poorer nations more than the rich nations, which have been the main cause of the problem.
5. Additional Comments, if any
As an optimist, I am forever hopeful that the people in YMI and YMCAs will lead their communities in action that is necessary to reduce the impact of climate change.