Choosing Eco-Friendly Neighborhoods in the Philippines

by Armee Sedillo Taylo

Armee Sedillo Taylo

Your dream home can be eco-friendly too! This guide reveals how to find a neighborhood that matches your sustainable lifestyle. Find your green haven now!

Imagine finding your dream home – a place filled with light, laughter, and maybe even a mango tree in your backyard. But these days, the dream goes beyond location and square footage. Filipinos are going green, and their desire for an eco-conscious life influences where they plan to live.

As sustainable practices gain traction nationwide, so do searches for the perfect eco-friendly neighborhood. This article will show you how to find a place that lets you live lightly on the planet, proving that location truly can mean sustainability.

Sienna Net-Zero Community designed by BillionBricks

The Pillars of Eco-Friendly Living in Your Neighborhood

An eco-friendly neighborhood in the Philippines goes beyond just a pretty facade. It’s a place where the very foundation supports sustainable living practices.

Proximity to Public Transportation

Public transportation is the lifeblood of a sustainable community. Ditching your car for a bus, train, or jeepney ride isn’t just about saving yourself time in traffic. It’s about actively contributing to a cleaner environment. Fewer cars mean cleaner air, less congestion, and a smoother commute.

Jeepneys, the iconic Filipino public transport, are cheap and accessible. They can carry many more passengers than a single car, reducing the number of vehicles needed on the road and contributing to a more sustainable transportation system. Pedicabs, which are used in some local areas, also offer additional eco-friendly options. Additionally, ride-sharing and app-based hailing services can further optimize car usage, reducing the overall number of vehicles travelling.

So, how do you find a neighborhood that prioritizes public transport? Look for areas close to stations or bus stops. Opt for walkable streets that connect you easily to these hubs. San Mateo, Rizal, for example, is a prime location. It has good access to public transport and is home to innovative developments like BillionBricks, which builds eco-friendly, net-zero houses – perfectly complementing your sustainable lifestyle.

Walkable Areas

Forget car culture – walkable neighborhoods are the future! Imagine leaving your front door and having everything you need just a stroll away. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about embracing a sustainable and green way of life.

By ditching the car for your sneakers, you reduce your carbon footprint, get some much-needed exercise, and foster a vibrant community feel. Picture yourself grabbing a coffee with your neighbor on the way to the bakery or bumping into friends at the local park. Walkability breeds connection!

The Philippines has pockets of pedestrian-friendly havens, but there’s room for improvement. Historic districts like Vigan, with narrow streets and charming shops, are inherently walkable. Modern mixed-use developments also lead the charge, integrating residential spaces with shops, restaurants, and offices—all within easy walking distance. A prime example is the Ayala Triangle in Makati, a bustling hub with parks, upscale shops, and pedestrian-only zones.

However, the reality is that most Philippine cities struggle with walkability. Sidewalks are often narrow, uneven, or obstructed by vendors or even makeshift extensions of houses and stores. This creates a frustrating and sometimes dangerous experience for pedestrians.

The good news is that there is a growing movement to reclaim sidewalks and create a more walkable Philippines. Local initiatives and government projects are working to improve pedestrian infrastructure, making it safer and more convenient to get around on foot.

So, how do you identify a walkable neighborhood? Look for wide, well-maintained sidewalks that prioritize pedestrians over cars. Crosswalks, pedestrian lanes, and traffic signals indicate a walkable environment. Your daily essentials, like grocery stores, pharmacies, and parks, should be within walking distance. The more you can walk, the greener your lifestyle becomes!

Availability of Green Spaces

Living among concrete jungles might seem practical, but it’s not good for you (or the planet!). Green spaces are more than just pretty parks—they’re essential for our mental and physical well-being. Studies show that time in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and even boosts the immune system.

But green spaces offer more than personal benefits. Trees act as natural filters, cleaning our air and mitigating the urban heat island effect. They also play a crucial role in flood mitigation by absorbing rainwater runoff. In short, green spaces are the lungs of our city!

The good news is that the Philippines is witnessing a growing movement to increase urban green spaces. Local governments and NGOs are working to create parks, community gardens, and even “pocket parks”—small green areas tucked into underutilized spaces.

A prime example is the revitalized Arroceros Forest Park in Manila, a 5.4-acre urban oasis featuring over 3,000 trees and various bird species. This park serves as a model for sustainable urban development, providing a much-needed respite from the bustling city and showcasing the positive impact of green spaces on our environment and well-being.

So, how do you find a neighborhood that prioritizes nature? Look for areas close to parks or green spaces. Tree-lined streets are another great sign – they provide shade and create a more aesthetically pleasing and calming environment. Imagine unwinding after work with a walk under a canopy of trees – that’s sustainable architecture at its finest!

Additional Eco-Conscious Considerations

Public transport, walkable streets, and green spaces are the holy trinity of an eco-friendly neighborhood in the Philippines, but there’s more to consider! Let’s explore additional factors that can influence your sustainable lifestyle choice.

Sustainable Building Practices

Beyond aesthetics, a truly eco-friendly neighborhood extends its sustainability principles to its buildings’ very design and construction. This is where sustainable and green architecture comes into play. By prioritizing resource efficiency, these buildings minimize their environmental footprint while reducing utility costs for residents. This creates a mutually beneficial situation for the environment and your wallet.

Here in the Philippines, look out for BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) certification. This program recognizes buildings that go the extra mile in terms of sustainability. BERDE-certified communities typically boast energy-efficient features like natural lighting and ventilation strategies. Water conservation measures are also a big plus, with rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures helping to reduce strain on precious resources.

Many developers proudly advertise their BERDE status. Doing online research or contacting local brokerages can help you identify these eco-conscious communities. Living in a BERDE-certified neighborhood isn’t just good for the planet; it’s an investment in a more comfortable and cost-effective future for you.

Waste Management and Recycling Programs

We all know reducing our waste footprint is important, but a sustainable community goes further. An efficient waste management system is the backbone of a clean and healthy environment.

The good news is that many Philippine communities are taking waste management seriously. Initiatives like doorstep collection with proper segregation bins are becoming increasingly common. Some neighborhoods are piloting composting programs, turning food scraps into nutrient-rich fertilizer—a win for your garden and the planet!

Adding to these efforts, several cities and municipalities have implemented strict garbage collection schedules for biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. This system encourages residents to segregate their trash properly, ensuring efficient waste processing and diversion from landfills.

For instance, cities like Muntinlupa, Quezon City, and Davao City have established successful programs with designated collection days for different waste types. These initiatives not only promote environmental responsibility but also contribute to cleaner and healthier communities.

To find a neighborhood that champions responsible waste management, check the websites of local government units or barangays (villages) to see their waste management policies. Don’t be afraid to chat with residents or property managers in your target area. Look forneighborhoods with clear waste segregation guidelines and readily available recycling bins.

Community Initiatives and Local Businesses

Choosing an eco-friendly neighborhood isn’t just about your actions; it’s about embracing a community that shares your values. Supporting eco-conscious businesses and local projects allows you to contribute to a bigger movement.

The Philippines is brimming with innovative businesses that prioritize sustainability. Think organic stores overflowing with fresh produce, farmers’ markets connecting you directly with local growers, and companies creating sustainable products like reusable bags or natural cleaning solutions. By supporting these businesses, you’re not just making responsible choices – you’re voting with your wallet for a greener future.

Have you tried going to the Salcedo Community Market in Makati every Saturday? This weekend haven features local farmers and producers offering a bounty of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more. They also focus on promoting reusable bags and containers to further the practice of sustainability. It’s a fantastic way to connect with your community, support sustainable agriculture, and fill your fridge with healthy, local produce.

The Salcedo Market is just one example of the many sustainability-focused businesses thriving in the Philippines. Look for stores promoting organic and local products, refill stations for household essentials, and companies offering eco-friendly services. Every sustainable choice you make adds up, positively impacting the environment.

But it goes beyond commerce! Look for neighborhoods with a strong heartbeat of community initiatives. Clean-up drives, tree-planting activities, and community gardens are all signs of a proactive and eco-conscious citizenry. Imagine being part of a neighborhood that organizes beach clean-ups or volunteers at local animal shelters – that’s the power of a sustainable community in action!

Social media groups or neighborhood forums can be a goldmine of information. Look for areas with a high concentration of eco-friendly businesses and a calendar packed with community events focused on sustainability. Finding a neighborhood that fosters these initiatives allows you to be part of something bigger than yourself – a village working together for a greener tomorrow.

Striking the Balance Between Eco-Friendly Living and Your Needs

The quest for the perfect eco-friendly neighborhood shouldn’t come at the expense of your everyday life. Finding a place that balances your sustainability goals with your needs and priorities is key.

Sure, you might dream of life completely off the grid, but if your job requires a daily commute downtown, that thatched-roof hut on a secluded island might not be realistic (although it sounds tempting!). Budget, family needs, and desired amenities all play a crucial role in your decision.

The good news is that you can still find an eco-friendly neighborhood that fits your lifestyle! Here’s how to strike the perfect balance:

Embrace Flexibility: Don’t get hung up on one specific characteristic. Maybe your ideal neighborhood doesn’t have the best public transport network, but it boasts a farmers’ market and a strong community composting program. Be open to finding a place that excels in some areas and offers workable solutions in others.
Prioritize Based on Needs: If a daily commute is inevitable, focus on finding a neighborhood with good access to public transportation options. Do you crave a vibrant social scene? Look for areas with walkable streets and local businesses.
Think Long-Term: While budget is important, consider the long-term benefits of sustainable living. Energy-efficient features in a BERDE-certified building might cost a bit more upfront, but they can save you money on utilities for years.

Start your journey!

Finding your perfect eco-friendly neighborhood in the Philippines is more than ticking boxes. It’s about a community that aligns with your values and empowers sustainable living. We explored factors like green architecture, walkable streets, and responsible waste management, but the most important element is YOU.

Imagine taking that commitment further: stepping out to a net-zero home designed to minimize environmental impact. In an eco-friendly neighborhood, it becomes an extension of your sustainable principles. Picture lush green spaces, easy access to essentials on foot or by bike, and a community that shares your environmental consciousness. This environment fosters connection and empowers you to integrate sustainability into daily life seamlessly.

If living in a sustainable, net-zero home designed to minimize environmental impact sounds like your dream, then BillionBricks’ innovative communities are worth exploring. We might be the perfect starting point for your journey towards a lighter footprint on this beautiful planet. Discover how to own a net-zero home with BillionBricks in San Mateo, Rizal, or Iligan, Lanao Del Norte. Visit us at https://billionbricks.org/contact-us-ph to learn more and get in touch!

If you’re ready to explore net-zero homes in more detail, check out our other blog post, Impacts of BillionBrick’s Net Zero Homes. In this article, we explore BillionBricks’ net-zero homes for those ready to embrace a net-zero lifestyle in the Philippines.

References: