The Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs (APAY) Climate Auditors Workshop took place at the YMCA of Makati, Inc., Philippines, from February 3-7, 2025. It brought together YMCA staff and leaders from 13 local YMCAs—YMCA Albay, YMCA Asaripallam, YMCA of the City of Baguio, YMCA Dili, YMCA Kandy, YMCA Leyte, YMCA Luan Prabang, YMCA Madras, YMCA Makati, YMCA Manila, YMCA Melakrishnan Puthoor Rural, YMCA Pamunugana, and YMCA of Quezon City, Inc. representing six National YMCAs across Asia and the Pacific.
Aimed at equipping local YMCAs with the knowledge, skills, and tools to implement green programs and sustainable practices, the workshop guided participants in understanding climate change and exploring adaptation and mitigation strategies. This was facilitated by expert resource speakers, including Beng Seng Chan, APAY Climate Defender Coordinator; Narupacha Muang-in, Assistant Director of YMCA Saohin; Mae Ferrero, Professor at Don Bosco College of Theology; and Ms. Magda Gana, General Secretary of YMCA Makati, among others.
Participants visited Don Bosco College of Theology to explore environmental innovations such as Biochar Technology, a rain catchment system, and composting facilities. They also toured the National Museum of Natural History and Intramuros, further enhancing their learning experience. A welcome dinner, hosted by the YMCA of Manila and the YMCA of the Philippines, provided an opportunity for networking and deeper discussions.
As a key output, participants conducted carbon emissions audits of their respective YMCAs using pre-collected data and developed Green Policies, which will be refined and shared with APAY and its members.
The workshop provided delegates with practical insights and strategies to help local YMCAs contribute to climate action. It underscored the significance of collective efforts, data-driven approaches, and community-led sustainability initiatives, setting the stage for meaningful environmental impact across the region.
