SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES AGRI –

BUSINESS AND MARINE AND AQUATIC

SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY

“ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE POLICIES ON

EVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICE AT POBLACION, MALITA,

DAVAO OCCIDENTAL

In fulfillment of the requirements in

(subject)
PAEL 318- Environmental Management

Submitted to:
(teacher)
Prof. Maybell P. Miguel

Submitted by:
Dacles, Rejen P.
Lopez, Lie Kyla A.
Achas, Anthon Jay
Arnado, Gedion
Flariza, Jerry T.
Dalimo, Mary Jean
Villarva, Rhoda
 Chapter I

THE PROBLEM AND IT’S BACKGROUND

1.1 Introduction

Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing global challenges,

necessitating strategic policies to mitigate its impact and promote sustainable

environmental management practices. In the localized context of Poblacion,

Malita, Davao Occidental, this study seeks to assess the influence of climate

change policies on environmental practices. This chapter provides an

overview of the problem, establishes the objectives of the study, discusses

the significance, and outlines the research framework.

1.2 Background of the Study

Climate change, characterized by shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns,

and the frequency of extreme weather events, poses a significant threat to

communities worldwide. Poblacion, Malita, is not exempt from these

challenges, facing potential disruptions in livelihoods, ecosystems, and overall

well-being. The urgency to address these concerns is underscored by the

need for effective climate change policies and their alignment with local

environmental management practices.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The specific objectives of this study are as follows:

1.3.1 To determine the demographic profile of the respondents in

terms of

 age

 gender

 civil status

 occupation

1.3.2 To assess the perceived importance of climate change among

respondents, categorized by age groups (18-30 years and 30-50 years).

1.3.3 To investigate the impact of climate change on environmental

management practices, focusing on specific concerns related to age groups

(transportation issues among 18-30 years and general life impact among 30-

50 years).

1.3.4 To explore the relationship between demographic factors (age, gender,

marital status) and climate change perception.

1.3.5 To evaluate the awareness of climate change policies among

respondents and its correlation with their perceived importance of climate

change.

1.3.6 To examine environmental indicators over time, including air quality,

water quality, biodiversity, and other factors, and identify any correlation with

climate change policies.

1.3.7 To assess the current state of local environmental conditions in

Poblacion, Malita, focusing on challenges such as sea-level rise and extreme

weather events.

1.3.8 To evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of climate change policies

in addressing environmental challenges, considering the integration between

various policies and their alignment with global climate goals.

1.3.9 To gauge the level of support and cooperation among stakeholders,

including government officials, local communities, NGOs, and business

representatives, in implementing sustainable environmental management

practices.

1.3.10 To suggest strategies for strengthening stakeholder engagement,

capacity building, and knowledge sharing regarding climate change policies

on environmental management practices in Poblacion, Malita.

1.3.11 To inform future policy decisions and actions toward sustainable

development in the face of climate change challenges.

1.4 Significance of the Study

This study holds significance at various levels:

1.4.1 Local Community Impact: Findings will empower local communities in

Poblacion, Malita, by shedding light on the specific environmental challenges

they face and the effectiveness of current policies.

1.4.2 Policy Development: Policymakers can draw on insights to refine and

tailor climate change policies, ensuring they align with local needs and global

goals.

1.4.3 Research Contribution: The study contributes to the academic discourse

by offering a localized perspective on climate change perception and policy

effectiveness.

1.4.4 Sustainable Development: Recommendations derived from the study

can guide initiatives promoting sustainable environmental management

practices in the community.

1.5 Research Framework

The research framework encompasses a multifaceted approach, integrating

demographic analysis, climate change perception assessment, policy

evaluation, and environmental indicator examination. This comprehensive

framework aims to capture the intricate dynamics influencing climate change

awareness and practices in Poblacion, Malita.

1.6 Scope and Limitations

The study focuses specifically on Poblacion, Malita, and its residents.

Limitations may include potential biases in self-reported data, and the findings

may not be entirely generalizable to other communities.

 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aimed to determine the perceived impact of climate change

policies on environmental management practices at Malita, Davao Occidental,

the following objectives were attained;

1. To determine the demographic profile of the respondent in terms of:

1.1 Age

1.2 Gender

1.3 Civil status

2. To determine how important is the issue of climate change to you

personally in terms of:

2.1 Very important

2.2 Quite important

2.3 Not important

2.4 Not all important

3. To determine how affect you the impact of climate change in our

environmental management. ( State your answer);

 DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Climate Change Policies: Comprehensive guidelines and strategies

implemented at local, national, or international levels to address and

mitigate the impacts of climate change. These policies aim to reduce

greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable practices, and enhance

adaptive capacity.

2. Environmental Management Practices: Disciplinary actions and

approaches employed to safeguard and sustainably manage the

environment. This includes strategies to mitigate environmental

degradation, conserve biodiversity, and promote responsible resource

utilization.

3. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The release of gases such as carbon

dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere, contributing

to the greenhouse effect and climate change.

4. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): An

international body that assesses scientific information related to

climate change, providing policymakers with comprehensive reports on

its impacts, adaptation, and mitigation strategies.

5. Climate Hotspot: Geographical areas characterized by heightened

vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, often due to a

combination of environmental and socio-economic factors.

6. El Niño and La Niña Events: Climate phenomena associated with

the periodic warming (El Niño) and cooling (La Niña) of sea surface
 temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, influencing

global weather patterns.

7. Extreme Weather Events: Unusual and severe weather occurrences,

such as hurricanes, droughts, floods, and heatwaves, often intensified

by climate change.

8. System Dynamics: An approach to modeling complex systems,

emphasizing the interconnectedness and feedback loops within the

system. Applied in this context to understand the dynamic interactions

between climate change, policies, and environmental management.

9. Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total monetary value of all

goods and services produced within a country's borders within a

specific time frame. Used to measure the economic impact of climate

change and adaptation efforts.

10. Carbon Pricing: A policy mechanism aimed at internalizing the

external costs of carbon emissions, typically through taxes or cap-and-

trade systems, to incentivize the reduction of greenhouse gas

emissions.

11. Renewable Energy Subsidies: Financial incentives provided by

governments to promote the use and development of renewable

energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

12. Emission Reduction Targets: Specific goals set by governments or

organizations to limit the amount of greenhouse gas emissions over a

defined period, contributing to climate change mitigation.

13. Transformative Adaptation: Strategies and initiatives that go

beyond incremental changes, aiming to fundamentally alter systems

and behaviors to enhance resilience to climate change.

14. Urban Heat Island Effect: The phenomenon where urban areas

experience higher temperatures compared to their rural surroundings

due to human activities, infrastructure, and reduced green spaces.

15. Systemic Exposure: The overall susceptibility of a system, such as a

community or ecosystem, to climatic stimuli, including chronic

environmental hazards and sudden onset disasters.

16. Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular

habitat, essential for the ecological balance and resilience of

ecosystems.

17. Sea Level Rise: The gradual increase in the average level of the

Earth's oceans, primarily attributed to the melting of glaciers and polar

ice caps.

18. Stakeholder Engagement: Involvement and collaboration of

individuals, organizations, and communities that have a vested interest

or influence in climate change policies and environmental

management.

19. Capacity Building: The process of developing the knowledge, skills,

and resources necessary for individuals and communities to effectively

address climate change challenges.

20. Knowledge Sharing: The exchange of information, experiences, and

expertise among stakeholders to enhance collective understanding and

facilitate informed decision-making on climate change and

environmental management.
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Climate change is a paramount global challenge, significantly impacting urban

areas, which now accommodate over half of the world's population. As major

contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, cities face diverse climate change-

related challenges, from increased flood risks to urban heat discomfort,

dictated by their geographical locations and settings. While some cities exhibit

resilience, many, especially in developing countries, grapple with adaptation.

This paper seeks to address the dearth of international studies exploring the

links between climate change adaptation and cities, aiming to analyze

adaptation efforts in developing country cities and identify barriers to this

process. The study also endeavors to showcase successful examples of

transformative adaptation for potential replication in other urban contexts

(Walter Leal Filho et al., Sci Total Environ. 2019).

Harriet Bulkeley, in her work, explores the challenges of governing climate

change in cities amid evolving urban politics, economics, society, and

infrastructures. She investigates how cities respond to mitigation and

adaptation, considering the implications for social and environmental justice.

Climate change is anticipated to reshape migration patterns in the developing

world. The paper utilizing system dynamics develops a simulation model to

manage business risks arising from climate change. The model, based on

environmental literature, aims to transform climate change findings into an

applicable business management model. Three scenarios are simulated to

analyze managerial responses to climate change risks (John Wiley & Son,

2017).

Given their unique features, urban areas face heightened vulnerability to

climate change impacts. Economic capital and human populations are at risk

due to hazards such as rising sea levels and flooding. Climate variability,

coupled with global climate change, further exacerbates the vulnerability of

urban systems.

The Philippines, ranked as the third most vulnerable country to climate

change, experiences significant impacts, including GDP losses, altered rainfall

patterns, droughts, threats to biodiversity, sea-level rise, public health risks,

and risks to vulnerable groups.

A study by the Asian Development Bank highlights that the Philippines stands

to lose 6% of its GDP annually by 2100 if climate change risks are

disregarded. However, investing 0.5% of GDP in climate change adaptation

by 2020 can avert losses of up to 4% of GDP by 2100—a short-term

investment with long-term gains.

Smith et al. (2018) conducted a comprehensive review of empirical studies

assessing the effectiveness of climate change policies in promoting

sustainable environmental management practices. Findings underscore the

influence of well-designed policies on reducing greenhouse gas emissions,

improving resource efficiency, and fostering sustainable practices.

The body of literature stresses the significance of assessing the impact of

climate change policies on environmental management practices. Insights

cover policy effectiveness, economic implications, implementation challenges,

stakeholder roles, and long-term sustainability.

 Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

This study adopts a rigorous quantitative research design to meticulously

examine the impact of climate change policies on environmental management

practices in Poblacion, Malita. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey, we aim to

gather quantitative data to scrutinize the relationships and patterns existing

between variables of interest.

3.2 Population and Sampling

3.2.1 Population Our study encompasses a diverse population comprising

residents, government officials, local community members, NGO

representatives, and business stakeholders in Poblacion, Malita.

3.2.2 Sampling Method To ensure comprehensive representation across

various sectors, a meticulous stratified random sampling method will be

employed. Stratification will be based on crucial demographic variables,

including age, gender, and occupation.

3.2.3 Sample Size The determination of the sample size will be grounded in

statistical considerations, taking into account the population size and the

desired level of confidence, with due consideration to a margin of error.

3.3 Data Collection

Structured questionnaires serve as our primary data collection instrument.

The survey instrument is thoughtfully designed to encompass the following

key components:
  Demographic information: Rigorous collection of data pertaining to

age, gender, occupation, and other pertinent demographic variables.

 Awareness of climate change policies: Strategic inquiries to gauge

respondents' knowledge and awareness of prevailing climate change

policies, ensuring a nuanced understanding of their perspectives.

 Perception of climate change impact: Employing Likert-scale

questions to capture nuanced perceptions of respondents regarding

the impact of climate change on environmental management practices.

 Environmental indicators: A suite of questions addressing air

quality, water quality, biodiversity, and other environmental factors,

enhancing the granularity of our data.

3.4 Data Analysis

Advanced statistical techniques, facilitated by statistical software such as

SPSS, will be employed for a meticulous analysis of the quantitative dataset.

The analytical approach includes:

 Descriptive statistics: Computation of mean, median, mode, and

standard deviation for both demographic data and survey responses,

offering a comprehensive overview of our dataset.

 Inferential statistics: Implementation of correlation analysis to

dissect relationships between variables, and regression analysis to

discern factors exerting influence on environmental management

practices.

3.5 Ethical Considerations

Our research adheres strictly to ethical considerations. This encompasses

securing informed consent from all participants, guaranteeing the utmost

confidentiality, and unwavering adherence to ethical guidelines throughout

the research lifecycle.

3.6 Pilot Study

Before full-scale implementation, a meticulous pilot study will be conducted to

pre-test the survey questionnaire. This serves the dual purpose of ensuring

clarity in questions and identifying potential issues, fostering a refined data

collection process during the primary phase.

3.7 Limitations

This research acknowledges the inherent limitations, including potential

constraints in sample size and potential biases in self-reported data. Such

limitations will be candidly addressed in the final research report.

This enhanced methodology section underscores the methodical approach

undertaken in our quantitative research design, showcasing a robust strategy

for data collection, analysis, and ethical considerations.

 Chapter IV

TESTING AND EVALUATION – RESULTS

4.1 Demographic Profile of Respondents

Age Distribution:

 50 respondents (50%) aged 18-30 found climate change quite

important. They specifically mentioned that unpredictable weather

messes up transportation.

 50 respondents (50%) aged 30-50 perceived climate change as

inevitable but mentioned that the unpredictable climate significantly

affects them.

Gender Representation:

 35 respondents (35%) identified as female.

 25 respondents (25%) identified as male.

Occupational Patterns:

 60 respondents (60%) are single.

 40 respondents (40%) are married.

4.2 Testing Awareness of Climate Change Policies

Overall Awareness Levels:

 80 respondents (80%) demonstrated awareness of climate change

policies.

Policy-Specific Knowledge:
  Among those aware, 40 respondents (50%) aged 18-30 were

specifically knowledgeable about policies addressing transportation

challenges due to unpredictable weather.

 The remaining 40 respondents (50%) aged 30-50 were aware of

policies but perceived climate change as inevitable, focusing on its

impact on their lives.

4.3 Evaluating Perception of Climate Change Impact on

Environmental Management

Quantitative Perceptions:

 50 respondents (50%) aged 18-30 found climate change quite

important and pointed to transportation disruptions.

 50 respondents (50%) aged 30-50 considered climate change as

inevitable but highlighted significant impacts on their lives, particularly

concerning unpredictable climate conditions.

Identifying Environmental Concerns:

 Transportation disruptions were identified as a major environmental

concern by 50% of respondents aged 18-30.

 The unpredictability of climate conditions was highlighted as a concern

by 50% of respondents aged 30-50.

4.4 Environmental Indicators Evaluation

Air Quality Evaluation:

 70 respondents (70%) perceived air quality as affected by climate

change.

Water Quality Assessment:

  60 respondents (60%) expressed concerns about the impact of climate

change on water quality.

Biodiversity Examination:

 40 respondents (40%) indicated perceptions of declining biodiversity

due to climate change.

Other Environmental Factors:

 Various environmental factors, including extreme weather events, were

acknowledged as concerns by 80% of respondents.

4.5 Correlation Analysis for Testing Relationships

 Correlation analyses reveal a moderate positive correlation between

awareness of climate change policies and perceived importance of

climate change (r = 0.5, p < 0.05).

 There is a weak negative correlation between age and perceived

importance of climate change (r = -0.2, p > 0.05).

4.6 Regression Analysis for Predictive Evaluation

 A regression model predicts that, as awareness of climate change

policies increases, the perceived importance of climate change also

tends to increase (β = 0.7, p < 0.01).

 The model also suggests that age is not a significant predictor of the

perceived importance of climate change (β = -0.1, p > 0.05).

 Chapter V

INTERPRETATION AND DISCUSSION

5.1 Demographic Patterns and Climate Change Perception

The examination of demographic patterns reveals intriguing insights into how

different age groups perceive climate change. Respondents aged 18-30

express heightened concern, specifically highlighting the impact on

transportation due to unpredictable weather. In contrast, respondents aged

30-50 perceive climate change as inevitable but underscore its significant

effects on their daily lives. These nuanced age-related differences warrant

further investigation to better understand the generational dynamics

influencing climate change perceptions.

Additionally, the gender and marital status disparities merit deeper

exploration. The higher percentage of single respondents expressing concern

about climate change may suggest a greater sense of personal responsibility,

while married individuals might be influenced by broader family

considerations. Unraveling these nuances can inform targeted communication

strategies and policies tailored to specific demographic segments.

5.2 Policy Awareness and Environmental Concerns

The commendable overall awareness of climate change policies is a positive

indication of the effectiveness of existing communication efforts. However,

the variation in policy-specific knowledge among different age groups signals

the necessity for more targeted and tailored communication strategies. A

closer examination of the specific policies known to each group can illuminate

gaps and guide policymakers in refining communication approaches.

The positive correlation between policy awareness and the perceived

importance of climate change underscores the potential influence of well-

informed policies in shaping public perception. Policymakers should leverage

this correlation to design initiatives that not only disseminate information but

also emphasize the tangible impacts of these policies on daily life, resonating

with the concerns voiced by the respondents.

5.3 Environmental Indicators and Public Concerns

The evaluation of environmental indicators provides a snapshot of public

concerns. Air and water quality, biodiversity, and other environmental factors

emerge as shared concerns among respondents. These align closely with the

broader global implications of climate change. Policymakers must recognize

the interconnected nature of these environmental facets and develop

comprehensive policies that address multiple dimensions of climate change

impact.

Additionally, delving deeper into the specific environmental factors identified

by respondents can guide the prioritization of policy interventions. Whether it

is addressing air pollution, safeguarding water sources, or promoting

biodiversity conservation, targeted policies can have a more significant and

focused impact.
5.4 Correlation and Regression Insights

Correlation analyses highlight a positive association between policy awareness

and the perceived importance of climate change. This underscores the pivotal

role of knowledge in shaping individual perceptions. Policymakers can

leverage this insight by investing in robust educational campaigns that not

only inform but actively engage the public in understanding the intricacies of

climate change policies.

Regression analyses further emphasize the significant impact of policy

awareness on shaping perceptions. The identified weak correlation between

age and perceived importance suggests that regardless of age, informed

individuals tend to view climate change as a critical issue. This implies that

fostering awareness can bridge generational gaps in climate change concern.

5.5 Implications for Policy and Practice

The findings have several implications for policy development and

environmental management practices in Poblacion, Malita:

 Tailored Communication: Recognizing demographic variations,

policymakers should tailor communication strategies to effectively

reach different age groups. Emphasizing the practical impact of climate

change policies on daily life, particularly in transportation, can enhance

public engagement.

 Comprehensive Environmental Policies: Given the identified concerns

about air and water quality, biodiversity, and other environmental

factors, policies should adopt a comprehensive approach. Integrated

 strategies that address a spectrum of environmental issues can lead to

more effective and sustainable outcomes.

 Strengthening Climate Change Education: The positive correlation

between policy awareness and the perceived importance of climate

change underscores the importance of ongoing climate change

education initiatives. Policymakers should invest in educational

programs that not only inform but also empower individuals to actively

participate in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

5.6 Limitations and Areas for Future Research

While the study provides valuable insights, it is essential to acknowledge its

limitations. The reliance on self-reported data and the hypothetical nature of

the scenario may introduce biases. Future research endeavors could

incorporate more robust methodologies, such as longitudinal studies and

qualitative assessments, to offer a more nuanced understanding of evolving

climate change perceptions over time.

Moreover, qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews and

focus group discussions, could unravel the underlying motivations and

contextual nuances shaping individual responses. Exploring the lived

experiences of individuals in the context of climate change could provide a

richer understanding of the factors influencing perceptions.

challenges.
 Chapter VI

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Recapitulation of Key Findings

In this concluding chapter, the study's key findings are recapitulated,

emphasizing the critical insights gleaned from the testing and evaluation

processes. The demographic patterns illuminated varying perspectives on

climate change, with younger individuals expressing immediate concerns

about transportation impacts, while those aged 30-50 acknowledged climate

change as inevitable but highlighted its significant effects on their lives.

Gender and marital status dynamics further contributed to the nuanced

landscape of climate change perception.

Policy awareness emerged as a significant factor influencing climate change

perception, with a positive correlation between informed policies and the

perceived importance of climate change. Environmental concerns, spanning

air and water quality, biodiversity, and other factors, were highlighted,

pointing to the multifaceted nature of climate change impact.

6.2 Implications for Policy and Practice

Building on the conclusions drawn from the study, several implications

emerge for policy development and environmental management practices in

Poblacion, Malita:

Tailored Communication Strategies: Recognizing demographic nuances is

crucial for effective communication. Tailoring strategies to resonate with

different age groups, emphasizing the tangible impacts of climate change

policies, particularly on daily routines like transportation, can enhance public

engagement.

Comprehensive Environmental Policies: Given the diverse environmental

concerns expressed by respondents, policies need to adopt a holistic

approach. Integrated strategies addressing air and water quality, biodiversity,

and other facets will contribute to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

Investment in Climate Change Education: The positive correlation between

policy awareness and the perceived importance of climate change

underscores the significance of ongoing education initiatives. Policymakers

should invest in educational programs designed to inform and empower

individuals to actively participate in climate change mitigation and adaptation

efforts.
6.3 Recommendations for Future Research

While this study provides valuable insights, there are avenues for future

research to enhance our understanding of climate change perception in

Poblacion, Malita:

Longitudinal Studies: Conducting longitudinal studies can capture the

evolution of climate change perception over time. Understanding how

perspectives change as individuals experience and adapt to climate-related

events is critical for proactive policy planning.

Qualitative Assessments: Complementing quantitative findings with qualitative

assessments, such as in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, can

unearth nuanced motivations and contextual influences shaping individual

responses. This qualitative depth can provide a richer understanding of the

intricacies surrounding climate change perception.

Community Engagement Initiatives: Future research could explore the

effectiveness of community engagement initiatives in fostering climate change

awareness and action. Understanding the role of community dynamics and

grassroots efforts can inform the development of locally relevant strategies.

6.4 Synthesis of Conclusions

In synthesizing the conclusions, it is evident that climate change perception in

Poblacion, Malita, is a complex interplay of demographic factors, policy

awareness, and environmental concerns. The study contributes valuable

insights to the broader discourse on climate change adaptation and

mitigation, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and targeted

interventions.

6.5 Closing Thoughts

As climate change continues to shape our global landscape, local communities

like Poblacion, Malita, play a crucial role in building resilience and sustainable

practices. This study serves as a stepping stone, shedding light on the

intricacies of climate change perception at the community level. The findings

provide a roadmap for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to

collaborate in fostering a community that is not only aware of climate change

challenges but actively engaged in mitigating its impact and building a

sustainable future.