In this 21st 

century, industrialization is the ideal concept for both social and economic
growth. Industrial revolution along with consumerism provided a different perspective to
aspire for social change. That being said, the spending of consumers is the key driver
that fuels economic growth and as seen as a positive phenomenon in the context of
modern perspective of development (Kelly, 2020). For example, this led industries to
burn coil and fossil fuels to run machineries. However, as the consumption of natural
resources becomes prominent and exploitative, our “thriving economy” results in
extensive environmental degradation in return. It primarily affected our air, water, soil,
and habitat (Folk, 2021). This paradox suggests that we should start aiming for
sustainable practices to protect our environment for the next generations to use.
(1) how can private sectors be held accountable for reducing the damages caused to
the environment?
Since we have realized the need to embody environmental sustainability, the
recognition give rise to various laws and policies to safeguard our natural resources.
This includes the compliance monitoring system for private sectors. It is stated in the
Environmental Impact Statement System of Presidential Decree No. 1586 that private
sectors need to secure first an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to operate
a critical project relating the environment. This is a certificate issued by DENR, certifying
that the applicant complied with the standard guidelines and has committed to address
the environmental impacts with the approved Environmental Management Plan. The
system ensures transparency of projects as potential environmental impacts along with
its solutions are considered beforehand. It strengthens the accountability of private
sectors provided also that there are already existing penalties for violations. This strict
approach to sustainability in the era of industrialization helps us meet the needs of our
generation with less impact in our environment and natural resources.