Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. called for responsible resource consumption and production to promote environmental sustainability during the Mindanao-leg launch of National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Solidum emphasized the importance of sustainable practices to mitigate climate change impacts and reduce calamities.

“Sometimes our difficulty is not thinking beyond our lifetime. If we continue to do this, our wealth is mainly derived from adding value to our existing natural resources,” he said.

The six-day NSTW event features around 150 exhibitors from Mindanao and across the country, showcasing local scientific innovations designed to enhance community-level value chain economies.

DOST-Northern Mindanao Director Romela Ratilla highlighted the event’s Innovation Theater as a key feature. The theater introduces “ready-to-adopt” green technologies aimed at empowering enterprises, local governments, and researchers to drive sustainable growth.

Ratilla said hosting the NSTW demonstrates Mindanao’s commitment to fostering science and technology for sustainable development. The event runs through Dec. 2. (PNA)