UPLB to celebrate CCC Week and launch eLBeep

UPLB is shifting into high gear for sustainability as it joins the nation in celebrating the 17th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week) with a seminar and the launch of a campus mobility system of electric microbuses on November 27, 2024 at the Rural Economic Development and Renewable Energy Center Auditorium.

This landmark event, organized in partnership with the Climate Change Commission (CCC), will feature CCC Secretary Robert E. A. Borje and UPLB experts: Dr. Jennifer Marie S. Amparo and Dr. Juan M. Pulhin, leading a seminar aimed at engaging students and staff. The discussion will emphasize the urgent need for climate action and explore the critical role of renewable energy in driving sustainable development.

Following the seminar, an initial fleet of smart electric microbuses will be formally launched. Labeled as “eLBeep” which stands for Electric Light Bus for the Environment and Economy Partnership. The initiative is a major milestone under the UPLB Green Mobility Initiative, which aims to promote environment-friendly and sustainable transportation inside the campus. 

The microbuses, acquired by the Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Drivers at Operators ng Los Baños (SNODLOB) Transport Service and Multi-purpose Cooperative from a Laguna-based vehicle maker, represent UPLB’s commitment to zero-emission transportation and green energy systems.

Powered by solar energy, same as the current fleet of Tipaklong e-scooters in the campus, the eLBeep units will service two key routes:

  1. UPLB Loop
  2. UPLB-UPRHS-Jubileeville

The deployment of these electric microbuses is the result of extensive coordination by the UPLB Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, SNODLOB, UP Rural High School, and the Los Baños local government unit.

This collaborative effort highlights UPLB’s proactive approach to addressing global climate challenges. By promoting sustainable transportation and responsible climate action, UPLB aligns itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, by providing safe, affordable, and sustainable transport solutions; and SDG 13 – Climate Action, by advancing initiatives that reduce carbon emissions and champion renewable energy systems.

The launch of the eLBeep and Tipaklong shared mobility projects, and the promotion of commuter service between UPLB and UPD campuses in partnership with DLTB Co. are vital steps in UPLB’s vision to future-proof its campus and champion sustainability for the wider community.

CCC Week is pursuant with the Presidential Proclamation No. 1667, signed in 2008 by then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to climate awareness and action.