BEATING UP SUMMER DILEMMA

It is summer and it’s definitely HOT. Here in the mid east, the temperature has been leveled up to almost 50 degrees Celsius. It is extremely hot as if a fire is burning just a centimeter away from your skin. A few walk away would make you bathe into your own sweat and even burn your skin.
With the extreme temperature, enjoying the sun is impossible. Being on the beach would even be a no-no or else, you’ll get over tanned. But summer is here and has to bear with it.
Here are few and effective tips to beat up summer dilemma:
- Wear light colored shirts. White is commonly known as a refractor of heat. It definitely works as it minimizes the heat caused by the extreme temperature. Makes you feel cool despite the heat.
- Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is one dilemma caused by summer. Perspiration will let you lose quantity of water that will lead to dehydration. Drinking a lot of water will fill in the water you lose and will even cool your body temperature. It is also healthy as it cleanses your body. *wink*
- Eat lots of fruit. Fruits rich in Vitamin C will help generate collagen needed in maintaining a smooth skin. During summer, skin can also be dehydrated which eventually causes aging and dryness. In order to fight this dilemma, eat fruits rich in Vitamin C.
- Apply sunblock. Skin suffers a lot during summer. One of the worst dilemmas is the melasma. But apply a little care when buying sunblock. There are non-effective sunblock and even lead to skin disease. In buying, make sure that it has Titanium dioxide. Titanium dioxide is a sunscreen that makes a sunblock effective.
- Plant trees. The best way of helping the temperature tone down is creating oxygen. A tree or plant is the best source of oxygen. The fresh air that it creates will help the whole surrounding cool. It emits oxygen that will catch and encapsulate CO2 that greatly contributed to the environmental disaster. It also captures the direct heat from the sun (photosynthesis) and emits air that we can enjoy. If each of us plants a tree, the feared hotter temperature will surely be minimized and will refract the negative anticipation about the environment in the next ten years.
Having laid down the tips, I hope to have shared a bit of inspiration. Despite the heat out, enjoy the summer! :)

"A waste is NOT a waste, UNLESS wasted!"

On my way to my uncertain destination, I saw the dump truck of Dudai with a print “A Waste is not Waste unless wasted.” What a positive and strong slogan I said. But it really speaks the truth. A waste can never be a waste unless we consider or treat it as a waste.
In today’s world of environmental chaos, there is a need to act and save the place we live in from impending destruction. One of the main causes of this environmental turn-out is waste. There is no doubt about it.
Centuries ago, there has been wastes/garbage that has been accumulated through time. Without much concern from human beings, the environment has been taken for granted. Today, our generation is suffering from the massive abuses of our mother nature. As a consequence, our generation is forced to make plans in saving the earth from further environmental retaliation. Aside from policies, laws and international agreements controlling in different part of the world, one of the most effective and efficient way of saving the earth from total chaos is avoiding waste from being treated as a waste.
Every single waste we throw in our garbage can be created into something useful. Not wasting waste can be an inspiring and motivating action that can answer our environmental dilemma. Taking Dubai as an epitome can help each country realize the worldly dream of making Earth a safe haven. I also believe that there is no impossibility as long as there is the will and determination to do it.
This new year, let us take the slogan of Dubai as our own and apply it in our daily life. Surely, like the progressive Dubai, there will be growth every single day. And, definitely, at the end of the long process, our dream for our mother earth is not far from realization.

Typhoon Ondoy: Who is to be blamed?

In a span of 9 hours, typhoon Ondoy has successfully drowned millions of houses and submerged most of the areas in NCR. The urban cities were transformed into rivers and people were forced to evacuate the residential areas to high places. In that span of 9 hours of raining, lives were lost and thousands of families were displaced. In an eagle’s eye view, Marikina, Rizal, Pasig, Laguna, Quezon City and other parts of Luzon looked like swamped because of the water that engulfed the places. For the time being, many places are still flooded.

Behind fears, nightmares, cries and stress brought by the flood lies the question, “Why did this happen?”
On the process of recovery, the government also asked the same question. The MMDA chairman, the DENR Secretary, and the LLDA has been picking holes against each other. Now, the national government and local government also exchanges fault at each other. Many experts have also shared their opinions. However, despite everything that what these people and agencies told, there is only one clear answer- All of them should be blamed.

It is not beyond one’s knowledge that development has been swift over the years. Mountains have been flatted to make way for housing projects and subdivisions. Farms and agricultural lands were converted into industrial and residential areas. Some of which, actually, have been submerged by typhoon Ondoy. Developments have also been fast along the creeks, bridges, esteros and other natural and artificial resources.

While housing projects and subdivision houses were built in mountains and farms, shanties were also built below the bridges, along the esteros, rivers, and even canals. It has been surprising that thousands of the population has been living a poor life in areas not meant for dwelling. With these developments, pollution of water and land followed. The rivers, canals, esteros and other bodies of water were converted into a garbage pit. Aside from that, greater bodies of water lie bays were covered with land to pave way for another industrial development.

There is nothing wrong with the developments. However, development for betterment and not for betterment only leads to abuse and disaster. On the part of the government, the fault should be pointed to them for they have the power to prevent developments and the people from residing and polluting the natural resources, yet they were heedless and completely ignored the problem. Though there are various environmental laws and plans for developing areas near the rivers, the government was incapable of properly implementing such laws and plans. Why? What was making them busy?

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) was completely inutile in protecting and preserving the environment. The rivers and other natural resources were within their jurisdiction, yet, they failed to protect it from abusive people. Why did the DENR failed to prevent people from abusing the natural resources? The local government units, on the other hand, are clearly responsible for the people within their jurisdiction. How come that there are people living a hell life on the places not meant for dwelling. How come that they did not taught of cleaning their areas, especially the rivers, canals, and esteros? People abusing the environment are also at fault for they do not know where to dispose off their garbage. These reasons are merely shallow actually but were too difficult for the government agencies and lgus to address. Usually they reason out that they cannot do it, they cannot do it! Then, they should step down from their sit because they are completely inefficient and lacks the political will in exercising their power. They should be ashamed because they are a failure.

How should be blamed of the disastrous flash flood? All those in the government who used their power for their own good and the Filipino people lacking discipline of loving and caring the environment should be blamed.

I HOPE THAT WITH THE TREMENDOUS EFFECT OF TYPHOON ONDOY, NO ESTEROS, RIVERS, CANALS AND OTHER BODIES OF WATER WILL BE FILLED WITH GARBAGE, NO MOUNTAINS WILL BE FLATTENED TO PAVE WAY FOR HOUSES, THAT GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS WILL BE SERIOUS IN IMPLEMENTING ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS, AND THAT EVERY PERSON ALIVE WILL LEARN HOW TO LOVE AND CARE THE ENVIRONMENT. DENR, WAKE UP!

Stop Climate Crime Now!

In the industrial world, oil is the most lucrative source of money. Oil has been also the result of various wars in the Middle East. In Canada, the digging of oil is the growing industry that is making the country financially strong. It cannot be denied that oil really brings in huge profit and feeds millions of people. However, the imbalance and rape of nature also occurs in the oil industry. Without proper guidelines and proper measures, the environment can definitely be ruined by the tar sands where oil comes from. Though the spread of tar sands, the rivers, lands, lakes and the surrounding areas have been converted into a mining pit and mining refinery. The trees have been cut off to pave way for the production of oil. Hectares of land have been invaded for oil production. Now, the oil production continues while climate change is aggravated.

There may be collusion between necessity of man to live or for money. However, there is also the necessity to protect the environment for a healthier habitat and a healthy place for generations to come. For how can one enjoy the food in his or her table when what he inhales is gas instead of clean air. I believe that God did not create all these things we enjoy to ruin and to pave way for other. I believe that there are measures that can be done in order that necessity of money and necessity of clean and healthy environment can be balanced. I believe that the only thing that hinders human from finding and initiating such measures is his discontentment.
God spare the Earth from tar sands.

Don't be Stupid

The green carpet will be rolled long and wide as the green artists and activists will show their love for nature this coming September 21 and 22. As the green carpet is rolled, the big screen will also educate those stupefied about Mother Earth and climate change. If you are not stupid, have yourself present on the Global Premiere Event of the “The Age of Stupid.”

For more info. Contact Greenpeace Org.

Flood: A Normal Catastrophe

Before, in elementary grade; the news about Ormoc City was conscientiously shocking. Everything that transcribed during that incident makes everyone shake like a leaf. It was also the very moment where logging was condemned. The washing out of the whole city was more than disastrous but a proof that the nature can be angered when pushed to its limits.

The Ormoc City tragedy was a like ghost that hunted every person who had experienced and witnessed it. Yet, the lesson it left faded among us now. Illegal logging still went on the rise. Some people involved are even those sitting in the government. Apart from illegal logging, people have increased activities that continued to damage the environment from improper throwing of waste to non-implementation of environmental laws. Nature has also been abused by the construction of various infrastructures. Agricultural areas have been converted to residential or commercial areas. Rivers have been converted to roads. Trees have been cut down in favor of a mall. Mountains have been flattened to pave way for manufacturing companies. Various things have also been manufactured toting up to the dumping pit. While wastes become mountainous in size so as the rivers. Now, the global warming is enclosing the earth from the prison made by humans. The nature has definitely been abused.

Today, flood has become a normal catastrophe. Every year, every typhoon that visits the country devastates an area living dead people, damaged properties, and failed dreams. The disturbing news in several flooded areas almost every month no longer leaves fear among the people affected and to government as well. Notably, in Quezon province, another Ormoc Tragedy has devastated several areas. Hundreds of lives and houses have vanished. The marks of the ruins are still evident in some areas. People affected have not also been recovered. Poverty has increased in the province. Illegal logging has also been pinpointed as the main factor that led to the destructive flood. Yet, logging has not yet been totally banned. Interestingly, the province’s Congressman just admitted to have paid for millions of pesos of dinner.

A little downpour of rain is also enough to immerse certain areas in Manila. Flood has also become a normal aftermath of rain. Provinces not usually flooded are also experiencing submersion in water. In the coming years, the possibility of erasing some areas of the country is not far from impossible, if we will not address the environmental problems. Good luck Philippines! Good luck Earth!

Necessity Over Necessity

One of the reasons that made the government unable to solve environmental problem is the necessity. Undeniably, despite various laws that mandate the government and the Filipino people to comply with their environmental duties, there are still no clear and prevalent changes that can be seen elsewhere. Litters are still around the corner. Wastes are continuously being generated from everywhere. Carbon dioxide and lead are still on the loose while plastics are still rampantly being used in all stores.

Few years ago, the call to cut carbon dioxide emission has been mandated by the Kyoto Protocol. The Clean Air Act also dictates it. However, long years after the enactment and implementation of these laws, carbon dioxide can still be inhaled. Some companies have still failed to comply with the environmental laws governing them. Cars and public transportation vehicles are still emitting the killer gas. The rivers are also used as dumping pit for garbage. Discipline is still elusive.

For these unbearable and disappointing results, not only the government but also the whole Filipino people should be blamed of. The laws are simple yet it becomes difficult for the government to comply with the law. One simple reason is the use of plastic bags. According to research, plastic bags contributed largely to the destruction of the ozone layer. Aside from that, plastic bags are decomposable that lives lifetime occupying a considerable area in the riverbanks, esteros, canals, and dumping sites. When burnt, the plastic emits a gas that directly damages the ozone layer. Despite all these facts and warnings, the use of plastic bags elsewhere is on the loose.

On the part of the government, it failed to pass laws that will ban the use of plastic bags on the mere ground that such law will leave millions of Filipinos unemployed. The manufacture of plastic bags involves various hands before it reaches perfection. Aside from that, there are sellers, distributors, and thousands of people depending from it. Hence, prohibiting its use would eventually cripple millions of families.

Unluckily, in this kind of situation, the nature suffers. Life is certainly important and priority. But then, life would be worthless if the environment where life exists is full of junks. In this kind of situation, it would also be hard for the government to weigh among the two; however, I truly believe that there are still options available only when full potential of the natural resources is maximized.

101 REASONS TO PLANT A TREE (just to remind)

1. source of food
2. source of water
3. source of oxygen
4. provides shade
5. food for animals
6. foundation of home
7. beautifies
8. shelter for birds
9. dance with the wind
10. strengthens the soil
11. source of medicine
12. form the mountains
13. creates paper
14. builds a house
15. stands a table
16. chopsticks for the Chinese
17. protection from flood
18. protection from strong wind
19. fights global warming
20. source of life
21. improves air quality
22. protects the water
23. saves energy
24. improve economic sustainability
25. reduce greenhouse effect
26. photosynthesis
27. cuts CO2 buildup
28. remove other gaseous pollutants
29. enhance traffic calming measures
30. attract business
31. attract tourists
32. improve neighbor relationship
33. harbor wildlife
34. architectural function
35. engineering function
36. air conditioning
37. forms a bed
38. source of living
39. sculptural function
40. artistic value
41. creates relationship
42. can be forever witness of love
43. produces paper
44. builds a boat
45. satisfy job needs
46. scaffold
47. produce books
48. source of income
49. cooks food
50. OPOSA vs. FACTORAN
51. charcoal
52. organic pesticides
53. experimental purposes
54. source of oil
55. beauty products
56. organic medicine
57. organic foods
58. whitening
59. foundation of a building
60. helps the pasture
61. food chain process
62. tooth pick
63. protects the environment
64. home for orchids
65. home for other parasitic organisms
66. livelihood
67. wood carvers
68. inspiration
69. component of a park
70. creates a comfortable seat
71. “bakya”
72. home for bees
73. home for hamsters
74. “Joyce Kilmer”
75. verdantness/ lushness
76. balance and healthful ecology
77. deforestation
78. water shortage
79. drying up of rivers, brooks and streams
80. massive soil erosion
81. loss of soil fertility
82. loss of agricultural productivity
83. extinction of unique flora and fauna
84. disturbance of cultural communities
85. increasing demand for biodegradable materials
86. destruction of corals due to siltation of rivers and seabed
87. drought
88. flooding of lowlands and agricultural plains
89. siltation of dams
90. shortening of lifespan of milti- billion peso dam
91. el niño
92. habitat for the living things
93. irrigation
94. massive illegal logging
95. wind breakers
96. rainforest
97. intense heat
98. loss of agricultural productivity
99. my responsibility
100. your responsibility
101. for our future sons and daughters that are yet to come.
...aren't you convinced yet OR YOU ARE JUST HEEDLESS?!

Simple Things to Save Mother Earth (repost)

You think you can’t help? You’re wrong.
Here are simple tips you can contribute to environment.

1. Do not litter and do not spit.
For a cleaner surroundings, it is good to see not even a piece of candy wrapper anywhere. In many of the countries, littering is strictly prohibited and is even penalized. Some of the cities in the country adopted a “No Littering” and “No Spitting” ordinance. It is a good start. However, still in many places, littering seems to be a hobby. Trash cans are provided and yet many litter are discarded everywhere. Spit are seen everywhere.


2. Do not smoke. Smoking does not only destroy your health but also creates millions of cigarette butts. They pollute the land as they pollute your lungs. Cigarettes butts do not decompose easily; it takes years before it vanishes or biodegrades.

3. Do not chew gum. Yes, chewing gum freshens your breath but is considered a pollutant. Though it is just a tiny waste after chewed, a million tiny can build a mountain. Chewing gums decomposes after number of years.

4. Do not buy goods packed in plastic bags. Many products and grocery items are packed in sachets that end up as useless waste after they are consumed. Plastic takes too many years before they biodegrades and even clog the drainages that causes flood. Buy, instead, those packed in plastic tubes or bottles. You don’t just save money but will also be your source of extra income. Plastic tubes or bottles, glass bottles and cans can be sold in the junk shops. Aside from saving, you also helped in not generating plastic wastes.

5. Use reusable or recyclable bags. When buying your goods make sure to bring with you your cloth bag or paper bag to pack your bought items. You minimize the generation of waste by not needing your goods be packed in another plastic waste. It does not only give you convenience but will also help the environment.


6. Use “energy saving” home appliances. This time, where global warming is getting intense, saving more energy can reduce the production of greenhouse gases. Using energy saving appliances will not only benefit the environment but will also save you a dime when electric bill is due.


7. Save energy. The lesser energy we use the smaller amount we pay and the more money we save. When an appliance is not in use make sure to turn it off and unplug it. In office, make sure to turn off the computer and put off the lights during break time. Or else put your computer is a power saving mode. That way, the energy used is lessened.

8. Segregate. Proper segregation of waste into basic Biodegradable and non- Biodegradable will not just a cleaner look of your garbage corner will help the garbage collector. Things that can be recycled will easily be segregated. Further, be kind enough to the bottom feeders who dig into your garbage for food.

9. Commute. Yes, you have car. 4But if you can ride a taxi, bus, jeepney or any kind of public transport please do. You will not just help in minimizing emission of hazardous gas but will also help in the realization of a cleaner air.

10. Educate. Teach your kids or those younger than you to be aware of the environmental problems. Teach them simple values to love our nature. At an early age, teach them to treat their waste well.

11. Avoid creating waste. In everything you do and for every thing you buy, make sure to include the environment impact of everything. Do not be a pollutant instead be an advocate of a cleaner and greener Earth.

...and so WHAT?!

It is really very disappointing to hear people responding "so what" when the government or people with authority says recycle, reduce, or reuse because the Earth is in the brink of danger. The fact about Global Warming has also been an issue of "a no big deal" for most of the people around the world. Far more, it is very saddening to know that people and even the government ignore the environmental problem that is faced by our Mother Earth today. Despite the facts about Global Warming, people still respond with "so what?!"
Personally, I had a hard time convincing people I know not to use styro-made materials and plastic because of its deteriorating effect on the environment and it was hard to get a nod but is easy to get a response of "so what" and unacceptable reasons. It is also disappointing to learn that some professionals do not actually know how to throw their wastes. Despite information campaign and efforts of the environmentalists about preserving the environment, some people are still heedless. Instead, they just leave the responsibility and effort borne by these environmental organizations. There is indeed lack of cooperation as to the preservation of environment is concerned.
Now, man's heedless response to the problem resulted to the melting of the glaciers, extinction of polar bears and other living organisms, continuous flooding, almost unbearable pollution, diseases, and unimaginable calamities due to unpredictable weather among others. Some of the consequences of global warming is also prevalent and being experienced today in almost part of the world, and yet, only few says, "I'll do my contribution today." Since the facts about global warming is really happening and being experienced today, can we still say, "...and so what?!"

HAPPY EARTH DAY

Maybe not everyone knows that at this very day, Earth Day is being celebrated. This, probably, is due to the fact that information about environment is not well disseminated and not of much interest among Filipino people. It is also beyond doubt that only few are interested and advocate in saving the environment from abuses. This can be manifested, too, by the presence of litter around. There are also people who continuously generate as much waste as they can and ignore the simple pro-environment tips posted and advertised everywhere. Aside from that, the government agency responsible for the environment and natural resources is still idle and is lacking of advocacy in saving Mother Earth. (Whoever says otherwise, maybe you are blind).
For this very especial day for Mother Earth, I hope that each of us will learn the importance of this very day. I also hope that those who have known about this day will contribute their own portion in saving the environment. As for me, I have bestowed "BAWAL ANG STYRO" advocacy to my friends. I am happy that they are trying their best to abide and live to our advocacy. In imparting this, I hope that each of us will now create a heart that is concerned about environment.

Revisiting RA 8749

Underlying Section 16 Article 2 of the Philippine Constitution which states that
“The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.” RA 8749 or the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 was created and successfully came into effect. It was almost nine years since the law was implemented. The law mainly addresses the environmental problem which is AIR POLLUTION, its effect on the environment and on every human’s health.
According to World Bank study in 2003, respiratory illnesses like bronchitis due to particulate emissions generated by vehicles and factories caused the high mortality rate and morbidity in the Philippines. It further announced that 80% of air pollution is generated by motor vehicles.
Under its “Declaration of Principles” the law/state explicitly recognized the principle that “POLLUTERS MUST PAY”. It also recognizes THAT A CLEAN AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT IS FOR GOOD OF ALL AND SHOULD THEREFORE BE THE CONCERN OF ALL.


While away from my home I tried to figure out why can't I get off my hanky from covering my nose.

Pro Nature Summer Tips

It’s summer time again!


Hot season usually drives us to flock the beaches to freshen by the waves of sea. Some would prefer having picnics in parks. Adventurous fellow chooses to climb the stiff mountains while some would just prefer visiting the zoos and parks.

During this season, we usually spend it bonding with family and friends and at the same time enjoy the beauty of nature. However, through our unconsciousness we create wastes and pollute Mother Earth. We enjoy but we destroy.

This summer, do not count yourself among the polluters. BE DIFFERENT.

Here are some nature friendly tips to spend summer:)

1. WALK if the place is just a few meters away. It’s a good exercise and it’s fun.





2. SHARE your car to others. If one car can contain you all, why not use one car only. It’s fun way of bonding. It saves you gasoline and will minimize carbon emissions.




3. RECYCLE. Instead of buying new outfits to add your dumps in the cabinet, better search your cabinet old but cool outfits. It saves you money.
4. DITCH styro or plastic plates and cups. Bring your utensils or better yet, use banana leaves and eat with your bare hands. It’s fun, I promise. Food gets even more delicious.


5. BE RESPONSIBLE in throwing your garbage.


6. PLAN a tree planting activity.


7. BRING YOUR OWN WATER. Instead of rushing the grocery stores for your bottled water bring your own PET plastic bottles for your water and have it just refilled.
8. OPEN your windows to let the sunlight shine upon your room to avoid switching on your lights on daytime. Or better yet, paint your rooms with light colors not just to beautify but to lighten up your dim room.

9. Yeah it’s really hot, cool down by using electric fan instead of aircon. Aiconditioners suck the heat out of a hot room and breathe it out in the environment. It also consumes much of energy which in turn consumes a huge quantity of coal. Coal is one among the elements causing global warming. By using electric fan, you won’t be scratching your head anymore when you receive your electric bill.


10. Recycle your used water. Water used in laundry can be used again for cleaning your car.
11. When you feel like planting in your garden this summer, choose those plants which do not necessarily require much water.
12. Put plants inside your house. A plant emits oxygen. Oxygen will fight away the heat in the house. Plants also beautifies.

one lonesome snack

While rushin' to somewhere else, my stomach craved for food. Since I have this stomach problem, i had to find a food to ease the pain of starvation. Usually i rush the help of fast foods and this was just exactly what I did. However, I negligently ruined my rules which I have also posted in my blog- "To avoid creating waste".
During that lonesome snack, in 30 minutes I've created...



Knowing there are millions eating in fast foods like this, in a split of second, we could be creating kilos of waste like this...




This post does not mean to destroy any name. Just happened that this is the image available and a good example. In fact, I love the french fries here. I just wish that huge and popular fast foods be more aware of the environmental impacts of their businesses. Probably by creating a biodegradable cups and plastics or a washable one. I do hope also that those great creators of waste will exert effort in the protection of the environment.

LET'S JOIN THE EARTH HOUR

On March 31,2007, Australia launched the EARTH HOUR. 2.2 million people and 2100 businesses in Sydney turned off their lights for one hour. This collective effort reduced the country’s energy consumption by 10.2% for one hour. The world was captivated by the efforts of Sydneysiders. This 2008, the world will be participating in this event to further awareness on Global Warming and to save and reduce more energy consumption.
Philippines has dedicated to support this global movement by turning off lights on March 29,2008 at 8 to 9 pm throughout the country.
Now, If you are a Filipino, aware of Global Warming or someone who care for the environment, then you should TURN OFF YOUR LIGHTS ON MARCH 29,2008 FROM 8 TO 9 PM. 60 minutes without lights will not cost you a dime. Why doubt. Be aware. Spread the news. Participate to save more energy.

If you want to maximize your support, please click here for more info.

THIS IS A GLOBAL CONCERN!!!

we can make a difference

A few days ago, I received an invitation to join WAYN. Without hesitation, I signed their form and added GLOBAL WARMING in my tags as I went through it I discovered this and want to share it with you. I wanted to share this to you because I CARE FOR YOU AND YOUR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

things we can do to help minimize Global Warming

1. Offset your travel
2. Re-use
3. Recycle
4. Insulate
5. Use the "Off" switch
6. Control Temperature Efficiently
7. Drive smart and walk more
8. Buy energy efficient product
9. Plant a tree
10. Don't use Screensaver
11. Use Less Water
12. Encourage others to conserve

THE FACTS:
• 3.7 tonnes of CO2 will offset 1 Person flying from London to Sydney (Australia) and back. This can be done by planting 5 trees!

• 850 pounds is the same as 386.4 kgCO2 (0.3864 tonnes CO2). This is the equivalent of an average UK house’s electricity, gas, coal and oil usage for 2 weeks!
• Insulating your home by adding hot water tank lagging to your home’s hot water tank will save 150 kgCO2 per year. This is equivalent to a one way flight from London to Barcelona.
• About 10% of all electricity used in UK homes is consumed by electronic items left on standby. By switching appliances off standby 150 kgCO2 per year can be saved. A PC monitor switched off over night saves enough energy to microwave 6 dinners!
• Switching off the lights when not in the room saves 30 kgCO2 per year. Lighting an office overnight wastes enough energy to heat water for 1000 cups of tea!
• Turning down your thermostat by 1 degree can save as much as 10% off electricity bills, 300 kgCO2 per year. This is equivalent to a return flight from London to Barcelona.
• Drive smoothly, check the road ahead, anticipate traffic and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. Eco-driving can reduce fuel consumption by around 10%, saving 280 kgCO2 per year. This is the equivalent to a return flight from London to Milan, Italy.
• An average petrol car making a saving of 10 miles a week = 520 miles a year = 175 kgCO2. This is approximately equivalent to a return flight from London to Belfast.
• If every home in the UK changed just 3 light bulbs, enough energy would be saved to light the UK’s street lamps.
• 1 Tree will offset on average about 10 kgCO2 each year
• Not using a screensaver equates to a saving of 810 kWh per year = 348 kgCO2. This is the equivalent of a return flight from London to Madrid.
• Washing your clothes at 30°C could save 40% of your washing machines energy consumption, saving 35 kgCO2 per year.

THESE ARE WORTH TRYING.

Simple things to help Mother Earth

You think you can’t help? You’re wrong.
Here are simple tips you can contribute to environment.

1. Do not litter and do not spit.
For a cleaner surroundings, it is good to see not even a piece of candy wrapper anywhere. In many of the countries, littering is strictly prohibited and is even penalized. Some of the cities in the country adopted a “No Littering” and “No Spitting” ordinance. It is a good start. However, still in many places, littering seems to be a hobby. Trash cans are provided and yet many litter are discarded everywhere. Spit are seen everywhere.

2. Do not smoke. Smoking does not only destroy your health but also creates millions of cigarette butts. They pollute the land as they pollute your lungs. Cigarettes butts do not decompose easily; it takes years before it vanishes or biodegrades.
3. Do not chew gum. Yes, chewing gum freshens your breath but is considered a pollutant. Though it is just a tiny waste after chewed, a million tiny can build a mountain. Chewing gums decomposes after number of years.
4. Do not buy goods packed in plastic bags. Many products and grocery items are packed in sachets that end up as useless waste after they are consumed. Plastic takes too many years before they biodegrades and even clog the drainages that causes flood. Buy, instead, those packed in plastic tubes or bottles. You don’t just save money but will also be your source of extra income. Plastic tubes or bottles, glass bottles and cans can be sold in the junk shops. Aside from saving, you also helped in not generating plastic wastes.
5. Use reusable or recyclable bags. When buying your goods make sure to bring with you your cloth bag or paper bag to pack your bought items. You minimize the generation of waste by not needing your goods be packed in another plastic waste. It does not only give you convenience but will also help the environment.

6. Use “energy saving” home appliances. This time, where global warming is getting intense, saving more energy can reduce the production of greenhouse gases. Using energy saving appliances will not only benefit the environment but will also save you a dime when electric bill is due.

7. Save energy. The lesser energy we use the smaller amount we pay and the more money we save. When an appliance is not in use make sure to turn it off and unplug it. In office, make sure to turn off the computer and put off the lights during break time. Or else put your computer is a power saving mode. That way, the energy used is lessened.
8. Segregate. Proper segregation of waste into basic Biodegradable and non- Biodegradable will not just a cleaner look of your garbage corner will help the garbage collector. Things that can be recycled will easily be segregated. Further, be kind enough to the bottom feeders who dig into your garbage for food.
9. Commute. Yes, you have car. 4But if you can ride a taxi, bus, jeepney or any kind of public transport please do. You will not just help in minimizing emission of hazardous gas but will also help in the realization of a cleaner air.
10. Educate. Teach your kids or those younger than you to be aware of the environmental problems. Teach them simple values to love our nature. At an early age, teach them to treat their waste well.
11. Avoid creating waste. In everything you do and for every thing you buy, make sure to include the environment impact of everything. Do not be a pollutant instead be an advocate of a cleaner and greener Earth.

OPOSA vs. FACTORAN

FACTS:
The petitioners, all minors, sought the help of the Supreme Court to order the respondent, then Secretary of DENR, to cancel all existing Timber License Agreement (TLA) in the country and to cease and desist from receiving, accepting, processing, renewing or approving new TLAs. They alleged that the massive commercial logging in the country is causing vast abuses on rainforest.
They furthered the rights of their generation and the rights of the generations yet unborn to a balanced and healthful ecology.

Issue: Whether or not the petitioners have a locus standi.

Held:
Locus standi means the right of the litigant to act or to be heard.

The SC decided in the affirmative.

Under Section 16, Article II of the 1987 constitution, it states that:
The state shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.
Petitioners, minors assert that they represent their generation as well as generation yet unborn. We find no difficulty in ruling that they can, for themselves, for others of their generation and for the succeeding generations, file a class suit. Their personality to sue in behalf of the succeeding generations can only be based on the concept of intergenerational responsibility insofar as the right to a balanced and healthful ecology is concerned. Such a right, as hereinafter expounded considers the “rhythm and harmony of nature”. Nature means the created world in its entirety. Such rhythm and harmony indispensably include, inter alia, the judicious disposition, utilization, management, renewal and conservation of the country’s forest, mineral, land, waters fisheries, wildlife, off- shore areas and other natural resources to the end that their exploration, development and utilization be equitably accessible to the present as well as future generations.
Needless to say, every generation has a responsibility to the next to preserve that rhythm and harmony for the full enjoyment of a balanced and healthful ecology. Put a little differently, the minor’s assertion of their right to a sound environment constitutes, at the same time, the performance of their obligation to ensure the protection of that right for the generations to come.
This landmark case has been ruled as a class suit because the subject matter of the complaint is of common and general interest, not just for several but for ALL CITIZENS OF THE PHILIPPINES.

Bottom line:
These minors have fought for our rights up to the highest level of legal remedy. These minors thought of our interest and right. These minors battled for our sons and daughters and those yet to come. These minors were concern for us to live in a balanced and healthful ecology. Sadly, we, who are learned and with discernment, are oblivious. Until when do we learn our lesson?
Remember, we have an "INTERGENERATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY" to our future generations.

Hikbi ng Payatas

Pulutin mo
O! munti kong anghel
ang mga pangarap na pilit mong hinahabi
dito sa kandungan kong tigib ng pighati.

Hanapin mo
sa naaagnas kong bisig
ang tinatanaw mong bukas.
Baka sakaling di pa ito
tinatangay ng mabahong hangin...
kasama ng nagliparang papel
na di na masasayaran pa ng pudpod mong lapis.

Kalkalin mo
ang katuparan ng kanilang pangako;
baka-sakaling makalahig mo ito
mula sa nakabalot na dumi ng tao,
na tila utot na nililitanya
ng mababahong bibig ng mga pulitiko.

Silipin mo
ang kalayaan mo mula sa gutom.
baka-sakaling nasa loob
ng kahon ng mga sapatos
na hinihimlayan ng naaagnas na fetus,
ang pagkaing sa iyo'y magpapabusog.

Langhapin mo
ang hanap mong karapatan.
baka-sakaling ituro sa iyo
ng usok na pumapailanlang...
o ng umaalingasaw na bangkay
nina ate at kuya na pilit nilang tinabunan;
dito...dito sa humihikbi kong sinapupunan.
(silang mga tinaniman ng punglo
upang di na pangarapin kailanman
ang kinabukasan para sa iyo na pilit nilang isinisigaw)

Ipunin mo
O’ pagod na anghel…
sa inuuod na sako ng iyong kamusmusan
ang basag na bote ng iyong mga pangarap
ang kumakalansing na lata ng iyong pagkabigo…
ang nadurog na garapon ng paslit mong mga ngiti.

Isakay mo…
sa pamamagitan ng naglalangib
at sugatan mong palad
ang lahat mong agam-agam at mga bagabag...
sa nanlilimahid na kariton
ng kawalang-katiyakan at madilim mong bukas.

Itulak mo...
itulak mo papalayo ang lahat mong hinanakit
sa lipunang ito na wala ng malasakit.


This is an original poem of Mr. Oliver Carlos, please feel free to visit him for many more poems. His talent is extraordinary. He is presently working in Russia but can truly blog about Filipino issues. He is a good friend and an advocate of a better Philippines.
I am posting his piece for I want to spread the country his insights on environmental concerns.

101 rEAsOns tO plAnt A trEE

1. source of food
2. source of water
3. source of oxygen
4. provides shade
5. food for animals
6. foundation of home
7. beautifies
8. shelter for birds
9. dance with the wind
10. strengthens the soil
11. source of medicine
12. form the mountains
13. creates paper
14. builds a house
15. stands a table
16. chopsticks for the Chinese
17. protection from flood
18. protection from strong wind
19. fights global warming
20. source of life
21. improves air quality
22. protects the water
23. saves energy
24. improve economic sustainability
25. reduce greenhouse effect
26. photosynthesis
27. cuts CO2 buildup
28. remove other gaseous pollutants
29. enhance traffic calming measures
30. attract business
31. attract tourists
32. improve neighbor relationship
33. harbor wildlife
34. architectural function
35. engineering function
36. air conditioning
37. forms a bed
38. source of living
39. sculptural function
40. artistic value
41. creates relationship
42. can be forever witness of love
43. produces paper
44. builds a boat
45. satisfy job needs
46. scaffold
47. produce books
48. source of income
49. cooks food
50. OPOSA vs. FACTORAN
51. charcoal
52. organic pesticides
53. experimental purposes
54. source of oil
55. beauty products
56. organic medicine
57. organic foods
58. whitening
59. foundation of a building
60. helps the pasture
61. food chain process
62. tooth pick
63. protects the environment
64. home for orchids
65. home for other parasitic organisms
66. livelihood
67. wood carvers
68. inspiration
69. component of a park
70. creates a comfortable seat
71. “bakya”
72. home for bees
73. home for hamsters
74. “Joyce Kilmer”
75. verdantness/ lushness
76. balance and healthful ecology
77. deforestation
78. water shortage
79. drying up of rivers, brooks and streams
80. massive soil erosion
81. loss of soil fertility
82. loss of agricultural productivity
83. extinction of unique flora and fauna
84. disturbance of cultural communities
85. increasing demand for biodegradable materials
86. destruction of corals due to siltation of rivers and seabed
87. drought
88. flooding of lowlands and agricultural plains
89. siltation of dams
90. shortening of lifespan of milti- billion peso dam
91. el niño
92. habitat for the living things
93. irrigation
94. massive illegal logging
95. wind breakers
96. rainforest
97. intense heat
98. loss of agricultural productivity
99. my responsibility
100. your responsibility
101. for our future sons and daughters that are yet to come.
...aren't you convinced yet OR YOU ARE JUST HEEDLESS?!