Del Carmen’s sustainability and equity agenda reflects a strong commitment to ecological stewardship, social inclusion, and climate resilience. The municipality takes a holistic approach that combines environmental protection with community empowerment through mangrove reforestation, marine conservation, eco tourism, and education campaigns. Inclusive development is driven by cooperatives, fair trade systems, and local governance efforts to expand livelihoods, education, healthcare, and gender equality. Del Carmen is also advancing renewable energy, sustainable transport, solar powered street lights, GIS based smart tourism, and waste to energy infrastructure to ensure the benefits of sustainability are shared across the whole community.
Equity challenges
- Balancing development with environmental protection
As Del Carmen experiences growth in tourism and infrastructure, one of the key challenges is protecting its mangrove forests, which are vital for biodiversity, local livelihoods, and climate adaptation. Overexploitation threatens these ecosystems, making it critical to align economic development with long-term environmental sustainability. Ensuring that environmental priorities are upheld while supporting economic opportunities remains a delicate and ongoing process.
- Advancing inclusive development and social equity through SDG alignment
Del Carmen faces interconnected equity challenges such as food security, access to education, and malnutrition. In response, the local government has embedded the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its local vision, focusing on poverty reduction, zero hunger, health, gender equality, and clean water. Through community-based initiatives and multi-stakeholder collaboration, known locally as Tambayayong, Del Carmen has significantly reduced poverty and malnutrition, improved literacy, and supported women-led enterprises. Ensuring continued co-ownership of development programs and youth engagement remains key to strengthening long-term equity outcomes.
Del Carmen aims to continue strengthening its sustainability and equity efforts by scaling up ongoing programs in mangrove conservation, climate resilience, inclusive development, and eco-tourism. The municipality is focused on integrating renewable energy, expanding eco-friendly infrastructure, and using smart technologies to monitor impact. With a strong foundation of community involvement and a deep respect for nature, Del Carmen is committed to preserving its natural and cultural assets while ensuring that development benefits all residents.
