Promentilla’s deeds and devotion align with multiple SDGs, including SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Throughout his journey, Promentilla has acquired a lot of notable achievements in environmental sustainability.

One of his many noteworthy accomplishments is geopolymer technology, which focuses on alkali-activated cementitious materials. By utilizing industrial by-products, this technology offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement, significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting resource efficiency. The development of geopolymer technology is a prime example of Promentilla’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Traditional cement production is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and his work on geopolymers offers a viable and environmentally friendly alternative. By utilizing industrial by-products, such as fly ash and slag, he not only reduces the carbon footprint of construction materials but also diverts waste from landfills, contributing to a circular economy. 

In a world grappling with the escalating problem of waste generation, Promentilla’s work on waste valorization is of paramount importance. By transforming waste materials into valuable products, he supports sustainable waste management practices that minimize environmental impact while maximizing resource recovery. He has developed innovative technologies to convert various types of waste into valuable resources, including bioenergy, fuel, and valuable metals. These processes reduce the volume of waste going to landfills and create new economic opportunities, fostering a more sustainable and resource-efficient society. 

In addition to geopolymer technology, Promentilla’s work in waste valorization is equally transformative. “To produce geopolymer, we are using coal fly ash from coal-fired power plants. We are also considering industrial by-products like nickel laterite mine silt and phosphogypsum from fertilizer plants. Hopefully, we can incorporate waste abaca fiber, silosi fibers, and even plastic waste in our formulations to produce green cementitious composites,” he explained. His team is also investigating the mechanical and durability properties of these materials. “Currently, we are looking at the production of pavements, or what we call the ‘Eco Brick.’ Aside from meeting mechanical strength requirements, we are also evaluating its durability properties,” he added.

His commitment to circular economy principles extends beyond solid waste management. Through the Nexcities initiative, his team explores wastewater reuse for sustainable urban living. “We are following the circular economy concept—reusing waste, but this time looking at wastewater. For instance, what if we could recover phosphorus from septage and use it as fertilizer to grow crops? That’s the core idea of our Nexcities research program,” he explained.

In the mining industry, which has long been criticized for its environmental impact, Promentilla is advocating for a shift toward Green Mining. “A few years ago, the mining industry was demonized by the media for its environmental effects. As a researcher, I advocate for green mining, where we apply technologies that make the industry more responsible and sustainable,” he said.

Among his most impactful projects is the Newton Prize-winning initiative to transform sewage into nutrient-rich fertilizer. By recovering nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater, his team has reduced reliance on imported phosphates—a critical step for Philippine agriculture—while curbing water pollution. “This award is related to our work in Nexcities, where we demonstrated that we can recover phosphates from wastewater and convert them into inorganic fertilizer for crops. The UK Newton Fund recognized our advocacy for the circular nutrient economy,” he stressed. Funded by the UK’s Newton Fund (£200,000), this collaboration with British researchers empowers rural communities through pilot testing at DLSU Araneta’s farm in Bulacan.

Promentilla also firmly advocates for cleaner production methods, which aim to minimize industrial environmental footprints while enhancing productivity. He recognized that industries play a crucial role in environmental sustainability and worked closely with them to develop and implement cleaner production methods. This involves minimizing energy consumption, reducing water usage, and using less hazardous materials, thereby reducing the environmental impact of industrial processes.