From 2000 to 2023, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from the Philippine building sector have steadily increased, reflecting rapid urbanization and infrastructure growth. During the same period, forest areas showed fluctuations—declining in the early 2000s, recovering in later years, and slightly decreasing again toward 2023. These trends highlight the ongoing tension between development and environmental protection. As cities expand and emissions rise, the need to preserve and protect forests becomes even more urgent, reminding us that sustainable growth is essential for the country’s long-term climate resilience. 🌿