Continuing its advocacy on sustainability, MCC President Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong and Center for Community Research and Innovation Director Mr. James Darwin Lagman published their research on "The Balakat Tree Project: A Case Study on Higher Education Institutions’ Role in Climate Change Mitigation and Environmental Sustainability" on the American Journal of Environment and Climate (AJEC).
Through merging academic research with community-based initiatives, the study scrutinized the ecological significance of the Balakat Tree and underscored the position of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in championing climate change. It also highlighted the significance of programs on local biodiversity as a way to promote sustainable environment.
The paper received 22 downloads shortly after its release. Additionally, Mr. Lagman noted that publishing research/study in respected international journals emphasizes the quality and recognition of the college’s academic endeavors. He, himself, has published six works with 249 citations.
“This legitimizes our research endeavors and contributes to the pride of the teaching force. Such publications also enhance our scholarly and research-driven reputation within the community,” he further added.
Aside from the publication of this research, MCC has devised various programs and initiatives aimed at fostering sustainability such Stream Restoration Project in Sapang Balen on environmental sustainability and I am Providing Optimum Wellness ERudition to Communities through Literacy and Numeracy on educational sustainability.
With this research and other initiatives, the college promotes the integration of research and education with actions that advances sustainable living through aligning Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the curriculum.
Access the full research here: DOI: https://doi.org/10.54536/ajec.v3i3.3036