Semirara Mining and Power Corporation is the biggest coal producer in the Philippines and supplies more than 90% of the energy in the Philippines. Despite being in an industry that causes environmental degradation, they have a CSR programme where one aspect of it is environmental stewardship (the use of conservation and sustainable methods to be responsible and protect the environment).
In 2010, they started on a project to conserve the giant clams through their Semirara Marine Hatchery Laboratory. 7 species of giant clams that can be found in the Philippines and Southeast Asia were spawned, grew and reseeded. Due to their successful reef habilitation efforts with giant clams, they were awarded first runner-up in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) category of the 2015 ASEAN Energy Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Semirara hopes that in the near future, 70% of their giant clams can be used for commercial purposes to reduce the need for poaching and wild-catch while keeping 30% for conservation purposes.
Other than their breeding giant clams program, a tour of their giant clam hatchery was incorporated in their mining tours to spread the word of giant clam conservation. In addition, summer camps for students were organised to experience marine life conservation and breeding of the giant clams. This hands-on experience could spur students’ interest and form a more environmentally-centered attitude in them.
For more of their CSR programs, click here to find out.