ENVIRONMENTALISM:
A Solution
by
Antonio C. Antonio
September
21, 2014
“The
Philippines is a democracy and, therefore, governed by laws. Although most laws are pro-environment, some
laws are not and are the cause of over exploitation and utilization of natural
resources and, therefore, more harmful that protective and progressive. Aside from increasing environmental awareness
and encouraging pro-environment programs and projects (such as clean air,
reforestation, waterways clean up, solid waste management, etc.), a more
effective measure is by way of environmental legislative reform.” (Antonio, 2014) With this, there really is no other option
but to work within constitutional parameters to promote environmentalism. Towards this end, the following methodology
might be ideal:
First. Embark on a massive information campaign to
increase the level of environmental awareness.
This can be realized by including environmentalism subjects in the
primary, secondary and college curriculum and mainstream (television, radio and
print) and social media awareness campaigns.
This will have to be a government and civil society initiative.
Second. Using participatory management concepts, establish
grassroots pro-environmentalism organizations that will enlist the support,
cooperation and involvement of all stakeholders especially the upland and
coastal dwellers and communities who are the poorest of the poor and who are
most affected by upland and coastal activities and programmes.
Third. Create a critical mass of pro-environmental
awareness and public opinion through environmental activism and advocacy… and
environmentalism in general.
Fourth. Endeavor to review and harmonize existing
laws, rules and regulations with the aim of crafting ideal public policies that
would promote pro-environmental plans and programs and environmentalism in
general.
Fifth. Make certain that the new system of public
policies is responsive to the needs of both man and environment. Corresponding reviews and oversight functions
should also be in order to make sure that the intent of the environmental laws,
rules and regulations are followed to the letter and, if and when
re-calibration of public policies becomes necessary, craft amendments.
The
above-mentioned methodology is anchored on three vital elements: (1) Increased
level of awareness and knowledge of environmental issues and concerns; (2)
Broad participation from stakeholders; and, (3) Institutionalization of
environmentalism through legislation that will promote social justice. With this, environmentalism can still be a
solution.
Just my
little thoughts…
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