University of Rizal System

The Environmental Education and Biodiversity Research Center catalyzes environmental advocacy and biodiversity conservation initiatives in the university’s service areas.  It aims to integrate environmental education into the curricular and extracurricular programs, implement ecological management guidelines, lead research and projects focused on environmental education and biodiversity conservation, ensure compliance with environmental laws, and participate in community environmental advocacies and partnerships.

With the vast land at 92 hectares in its URS Tanay Campus, the university recognizes the critical importance of protecting ecosystems. Under Board of Regents Resolution No. 028-25809 dated October 5, 2009, and upon recommendation of the URS Administrative Council, the URS Tanay Forest was declared as a protected area. It covers the portion along the Human Resources Development Center extending along the area going to Balete and approximately 6 hectares, prohibiting all activities that will destroy the forest resources. 

The management of the said area is under the EEBRC. The center shall promote, implement, and monitor the conservation of forest resources and the campus in general. Activities supporting instruction and research can be allowed, provided permission is granted and the resources in the forest will not be damaged. Nature walks on the forest perimeter can also be permitted with consent for educational purposes. Conservation measures must likewise be observed. Therefore, all activities concerning life forms on the campus, especially those in the natural habitats, must be appropriately coordinated to the center.

With its strong linkages to the local, provincial, regional, national, and international partners, URS collaborates to implement sustainable land management practices. These initiatives include promoting agroforestry, organic farming, and sustainable agricultural practices that reduce the impact on natural ecosystems. Also, the ten campuses implement sustainable practices on waste segregation, energy conservation, water-saving technologies, and eco-friendly materials in campus development projects in close coordination with the guidelines set forth by EEBRC.

URS actively participates in national and regional forums on environmental issues and advocates for policies supporting sustainable land management, biodiversity conservation, and habitat restoration. In the future, URS will adopt green building standards for new infrastructure projects to minimize environmental impact, ensuring that construction and development projects adhere to sustainable practices. As the university grows in its population with its students, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, alumni, and interested stakeholders, it will continuously contribute significantly to SDG 15: Life on Land, helping ensure that future generations have access to healthy ecosystems and natural resources.