tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46429350637843122422024-03-18T02:48:50.907-07:00Thoughts to Promote Positive Action..."This blogsite contains articles, papers and reports on the subject of environment and natural resources management together with economic development and human interest stories every now and then. This blogsite intends to provide thought-provoking perspectives to increase the level of awareness on environmental issues and concerns aimed at inspiring individual and/or collective action towards protecting Mother Earth." --- Anton AntonioAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.comBlogger691125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-53476689079445132702016-03-25T16:06:00.002-07:002016-03-25T16:06:53.102-07:00Save the Forest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ewODKqJYj8A/VvXEYDDmJaI/AAAAAAAADKE/r5ZZjulzB8Al4LhVDlpOXPX_-YhakJV4A/s1600/1A%2B-%2BSave%2Bthe%2BForest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ewODKqJYj8A/VvXEYDDmJaI/AAAAAAAADKE/r5ZZjulzB8Al4LhVDlpOXPX_-YhakJV4A/s200/1A%2B-%2BSave%2Bthe%2BForest.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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SAVE THE
FOREST<o:p></o:p></div>
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By Anton
Antonio<o:p></o:p></div>
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March 26,
2016<o:p></o:p></div>
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Forest
certification is a mechanism for forest monitoring, tracing and labelling of
timber, wood and pulp products and non-timber forest products, where the
quality of forest management is judged against a series of agreed standards. <span style="background: white;">Credible
forest certification covers much more than just logging and harvesting
practices but also accounts for the social and economic well-being of forest
and plantation workers, local/upland communities, transparency and
inclusiveness in the planning, implementation and decision-making process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;">Forest certification is largely seen as the most important initiative in
the last ten years that aims to promote the best sustainable forest management
practices. Sustainable forest management
is a key component for a future where people can live in harmony with nature.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;">Forest products are renewable which sets them apart from other natural
resources. It is therefore important to
note that the sustainable use of renewable forest products can generally help
provide forest dependent communities with shelter, fuel, medicines, livelihood
opportunities and other services… on top of providing a home for the numerous
flora and fauna. Improving forest
biodiversity is a critical component in climate change mitigation initiatives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;">Prohibiting the use of forest products is not a viable solution as it
hinders on socio-economic considerations for forest-dependent communities. As an alternative, sustainable forest
management practices is the key concept which forest certification is
promoting. Forest certification,
however, will only work when the system includes (1) a comprehensive management
standard, (2) a rigorous control mechanism and (3) a broad involvement and
participation of economic, environmental and social stakeholders. Sustainable and responsible forest management
together with a credible and acceptable system of forest certification plus
sound regulations and legislation may be the perfect combination of solutions
to our declining forest cover.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;">At present, there is a wide spectrum of forest certification systems and
schemes. The World Wide Fund for Nature
(WWF) --- an international non-governmental organization, founded on April 29,
1961 and based in Morges, Switzerland, working in the field of biodiversity
conservation and preservation and the reduction of humanity’s footprint on the
environment --- considers the Forest Stewardship Council (FCS) to be the best
forest certification system as it provides for environmentally responsible,
socially beneficial, and economically viable and sustainable forest management
international standards. On the other
hand, the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) --- an
international non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Geneva,
Switzerland, dedicated to the promotion sustainable forest management through
third-party certification --- is largely viewed as the international body that
assists local forest certification systems craft their own domestic standards. On the 1<sup>st</sup> of March 2016, under
the guidance and sponsorship of the PEFC, the National Governing Board of the
Philippine Sustainable Forest Certification (NGB-PSFC) system was formally
launched and organized through the signing of the Framework Agreement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;">The forest certification initiative may not be the generic solution to
our dwindling forest resources but this, together with consistent law
enforcement, rationalization of the wood industry and DNA mapping, could
provide an ideal framework in our effort to save the forest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders and/or Environment and Livelihood
Foundation Facebook Pages or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-60677933855466701172016-02-18T16:34:00.001-08:002016-02-18T16:35:30.480-08:00The Significance of Total Logging Bans<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TOTAL LOGGING BANS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">By Anton Antonio<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">February 19, 2016<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Total logging bans are often used by governments all over
the world to curb, check and restrain illegal logging activities and to better
manage and preserve their forest cover and the ecology of the landscape. There is, of course, a certain degree of
uneasiness on whether this is the right thing to do. The question still persists whether or not other
initiatives available to total logging bans.
It becomes critical, therefore, that total logging bans are studied too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The forest in the Philippines is very rich in
biodiversity. The numerous flora and
fauna that could be found in tropical rainforests is due to the constant
high temperature and humidity which characterize our normal weather condition. It is unfortunate, however, that many forests
are threatened due to deforestation… and deforestation is caused by
irresponsible logging activities. It is
important to mention, at this point that logging in the Philippines is
perceived as an “illegal” activity and anyone who is involved in the wood
industry is an “illegal logger”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Forestland largely form a sizeable part of landscape
ecology. Deforestation is the single,
most negative, factor that affects landscape ecology. A total logging ban, therefore, is also a big
influencing factor in the ecology of the landscape. Preserving our last remaining forest cover is
imperative to ensure quality life on our planet for the next generations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The purpose and objective, therefore, of a study on the
significance of total logging bans (as the primary government initiative)
should focus on and detail the following background, issues and concerns:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 38.25pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Give a brief history on logging in the Philippines so we could better
understand the development of the wood industry to its present status;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 38.25pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Look into the socio-economic importance of logging so we could gain
better insights to the realities of logging as a basic means of livelihood and
how it affects people as social units;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Answer the question “Is total logging ban possible?” so we could explore
the sustainability of a long-term logging ban;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Make a general distinction between legal and illegal logging activities
so we could separate the myth from reality;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Determine the effects of total logging ban in the forest cover and ecology
of the landscape so we could make baseline assumptions on the relationship
between logging activities and biodiversity;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">6.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Find ways and means to mitigate the effects of total logging bans as the
best way to go but making certain that the necessary safety nets are provided
to stakeholders in the wood and timber industry;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">7.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Come up with a synthesis or an alternative approach in balancing the
need for wood and the ecology so we can also consider other ways and means to a
total logging ban; and,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">8.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Provide a new framework on the effects of total logging ban in the
ecology of the landscape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Reforestation
should be an integral part of timber utilization. Trees also have a lifespan and when trees
die, the unutilized wood will decompose and return to the atmosphere in the
form of carbon. Carbon sequestration or
biological sequestration can only happen when trees are felled in their
maturity. Premature harvesting of trees
without the corresponding replenishment, through reforestation, is the
single-biggest cause of forest cover loss.
But is the declaration of total logging bans the only alternative? Or are there other options? I firmly believe there are. And, if there are, what then is the
significance of total logging bans?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thoughts
to promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"> and </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-23111500489541831062016-02-17T15:47:00.002-08:002016-02-17T15:47:29.080-08:00Total Log Ban<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqvbj4sHLHo/VsUGcbDBrcI/AAAAAAAADJk/seNZ4g2DrvA/s1600/1A%2B-%2BTotal%2BLog%2BBan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqvbj4sHLHo/VsUGcbDBrcI/AAAAAAAADJk/seNZ4g2DrvA/s200/1A%2B-%2BTotal%2BLog%2BBan.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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TOTAL LOG BAN</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 18, 2016</div>
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In my never-ending research for subject matters to blog
about, I chanced upon this poster that says: “total log ban”. (Please see accompanying image.) How many times have you read this statement
“total log ban”? You’ve probably read it
from newspapers describing a declaration or imposition by government. Or a pro-environment advocacy group lobbying
for it or evangelizing about it… a “total log ban”. Sadly, however, the statement is simply
wrong!</div>
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Let’s define the statement, “total log ban”, word for
word. The word “total” means complete,
absolute or comprising the whole number, amount or volume of a given unit. A “log” is a part of the trunk or a large
branch of a tree that has fallen or has been cut off. Please note that the growth of a tree is a
natural process and phenomenon. The word
“ban” means officially or legally prohibited.
So, therefore, putting these definitions together, how can something
that is a natural product like a tree (specifically the trunk and branch) be
officially and legally prohibited (banned) from growing? This just doesn’t make sense... or downright
stupid!</div>
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What would make better sense is tweaking this statement
(therefore, “total log ban”) to “total logging ban”. In this case what we are officially and
legally prohibiting or banning is the act of logging. Logging is defined as the activity or
business of felling trees and cutting and preparing the timber for utilization
and conversion to other wood products.
In this application “logging”, as an activity, can be banned officially
and legally by an authority.</div>
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The use of “log” over “logging” may seem like ordinary and
insignificant semantics (meaning: the branch of linguistics and logic concerned
with meaning) but wouldn’t it be ideal to use correct words to describe
specific issues and concerns? Let’s do
everyone a favour, it would not be rude to gently correct others when they use
the statement “total log ban”.</div>
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Thoughts to promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Please visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on
Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-77655613648701787992016-02-16T15:24:00.002-08:002016-02-16T15:24:44.692-08:00Deforestation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iEHhuG1ZdBs/VsOvq_-BezI/AAAAAAAADJU/6Qm9SxD8mMk/s1600/1A%2B-%2BDeforestation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iEHhuG1ZdBs/VsOvq_-BezI/AAAAAAAADJU/6Qm9SxD8mMk/s200/1A%2B-%2BDeforestation.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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DEFORESTATION</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 16, 2016</div>
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A common coffee table topic when people exchange views on
the environment is deforestation. But
what exactly is deforestation?
Deforestation is the clearing of trees that eventually transform a
forest into a cleared land. Here is a
researched material on deforestation… “Deforestation, clearance or clearing is
the removal of a forest or stand of trees where the land is thereafter
converted to a non-forest use. Examples
of deforestation include conversion of forestland to farms, ranches, or urban
use. Tropical rainforests is where the
common concentrated deforestation occurs.
Almost 30% of the world is converted by forests, excluding water
mass. In temperate mesic climates, natural
regeneration of forest stands often will not occur in the absence of disturbance,
whether natural or anthropogenic.
Furthermore, biodiversity after regeneration harvest often mimics that
found after natural disturbance, including biodiversity loss after naturally
occurring rainforest destruction.
Deforestation occurs for many reasons: trees are cut down to be used or
sold as fuel (sometimes in form of charcoal) or timber, while cleared land is
used as pasture for livestock, plantations of commodities and settlements. The removal of trees without sufficient
reforestation has resulted in damage to habitat, biodiversity loss and
aridity. It has adverse impacts on
biosequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Deforestation has also been used in war to deprive the enemy of cover
for its forces and also vital resources.
Modern examples of this were the use of Agent Orange by the British
military in Malaya during the Malayan emergency and the United States military
in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. As of
2005, net deforestation rates have ceased to increase in countries with a per
capita GDP of at least US$4,600.
Deforested regions typically incur significant adverse soil erosion and
frequently degrade into wasteland.
Disregard of ascribed value, lax forest management and deficient
environmental laws, are some of the factors that allow deforestation to occur
on a large scale. In many countries,
deforestation, both naturally occurring and human induced, is an ongoing issue. Deforestation causes extinction, changes to
climatic conditions, desertification, and displacement of populations as
observed by current conditions and in the past through the fossil record. More than half of all plant and land animals
species in the world live in tropical forests.
Between 2000 and 2013, 2.3 million square kilometers of forests around
the world were cut down. As a result of
deforestation, only 6.2 million square kilometers remain of the original 16
million square kilometers of forest that formerly covered the earth.”
(Wikipedia)</div>
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There are several (even confusing) data and statistics on the
annual rate of deforestation from various sources. More than establishing the deforestation
rate, it is more important to acknowledge that deforestation happens every
year. And above all is the further importance
of curbing, for the sake of future generations, deforestation.</div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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Wikipedia, (2016).
“Deforestation”. Retrieved on
February 16, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deforestation">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deforestation</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-41829064445161403972016-02-15T15:20:00.002-08:002016-02-15T15:20:35.968-08:00International Tropical Timber Agreement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjEIRLMG2tM/VsJdKz2TY1I/AAAAAAAADJE/EmG5mM2nZqE/s1600/1A%2B-%2BInternational%2BTropical%2BTimber%2BAgreement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjEIRLMG2tM/VsJdKz2TY1I/AAAAAAAADJE/EmG5mM2nZqE/s200/1A%2B-%2BInternational%2BTropical%2BTimber%2BAgreement.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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INTERNATIONAL TROPICAL TIMBER AGREEMENT</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 16, 2016</div>
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The single-biggest cause for the depletion of the world’s
forest cover is the illegal harvesting and trade of timber products. This is not only a domestic problem of
individual countries but a worldwide problem.
The European Union and the United States, in an effort to eradicate the
international trade of illegally harvested forest products, have started to be
strict in importing wood --- especially tropical hardwood --- without due
certification from their true origin.</div>
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“The International Tropical Timber Agreement (ITTA, 2006) is
to “promote the expansion and diversification of international trade in
tropical timber from sustainably manages and legally harvested forests and to promote
the sustainable management of tropical timber producing forests”. It entered into force on 7 December 2011 and
replaces the International Tropical Timber Agreement, 1994. As of late July 2015, there are 71 parties to
the agreement. Madagascar, Nigeria, and
Paraguay have signed the agreement but have not ratified it. Canada ratified the agreement in 2009 but has
since denounced it.” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The ITTA, however, could only be effective if the
governments (particularly the ministries and departments in charge of
protecting forest resources) of individual countries do not connive (meaning:
secretly allow something considered immoral, illegal, wrong and harmful to
occur) with illegal loggers and traders.
Otherwise, this international accord will be useless; the International
Tropical Timber Agreement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“International Tropical Timber Agreement, 2006”. Retrieved on February 16, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Tropical_Timber_Agreement,_2006">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Tropical_Timber_Agreement,_2006</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-20399050653564099472016-02-15T05:09:00.000-08:002016-02-15T05:09:06.150-08:00MARPOL 73/78<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_GWxizK__8/VsHN12Z2mGI/AAAAAAAADI0/m8GXLHKXO10/s1600/1A%2B-%2BMARPOL%2B1973%2Band%2B1978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="51" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_GWxizK__8/VsHN12Z2mGI/AAAAAAAADI0/m8GXLHKXO10/s200/1A%2B-%2BMARPOL%2B1973%2Band%2B1978.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MARPOL 73/78</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 15, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is common knowledge that approximately 71% of the earth’s
surface is covered by water and the oceans and seas hold about 96.5% of all
earth’s water. These staggering data on
the volume of water around us makes dumping of waste in water bodies, which
will subsequently result to marine pollution, is a very critical issue and
concern. Towards the end and purpose of
protecting our oceans and seas, the MARPOL 73/78 was conceived.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is a researched material on MARPOL… “MARPOL 73/78 is the International Convention
for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of
1978. (“MARPOL” is the short term for
marine pollution and 73/78 is short for the years 1973 and 1978.) MARPOL 73/78 is one of the most important
international marine environmental conventions.
It was developed by the International Maritime Organization is an effort
to minimize pollution of the oceans and seas, including dumping, oil and sir
pollution. The objective of this
convention is to preserve the marine environment in an attempt to completely
eliminate pollution by oil and other harmful substances and to minimize
accidental spillage of such substances.
The original MARPOL was signed on 17 February 1973, but did not come
into force at the signing date. The
current convention is a combination of the 1973 Convention and the 1978
Protocol. It entered into force on 2
October 1983. As of 2015, 152 states,
representing 99.2 percent of the world’s shipping tonnage, are state parties to
the convention. All ships flagged under
countries that are signatories to MARPOL are subject to its requirements,
regardless of where they sail and member nations are responsible for vessels registered
under their respective nationalities.”
(Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The MARPOL Conventions are quite hard to implement
considering the vastness of our oceans and seas. There are just too many ships out there that
makes monitoring very daunting. The
success of the MARPOL Conventions will depend largely on the degree of
commitment from individual countries who are participating in this
initiative. We could only wish and pray
for the success of MARPOL 73/78.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“MARPOL 73/78”. Retrieved on
February 15, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MARPOL_73/78">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MARPOL_73/78</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-25272907359254776842016-02-13T20:51:00.001-08:002016-02-13T20:51:15.871-08:00Saint Valentine and Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9s6VJ3DzCM/VsAHq0FZ3NI/AAAAAAAADIk/wmQUUGGdsSY/s1600/1A%2B-%2BSaint%2BValentine%2Band%2BValentine%2527s%2BDay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9s6VJ3DzCM/VsAHq0FZ3NI/AAAAAAAADIk/wmQUUGGdsSY/s200/1A%2B-%2BSaint%2BValentine%2Band%2BValentine%2527s%2BDay.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SAINT VALENTINE AND VALENTINE’S DAY</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 14, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aside from birthdays and Christmas, the other more
anticipated event in everyone’s life is Valentine’s Day. But what exactly is Valentine’s Day? Why is Valentine associated with falling in
love romantically?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are researched materials on Valentine’s Day and Saint
Valentine…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day or the
Feast of Saint Valentine, is an annual holiday celebrated on February 14. It originated as a Western Christian
liturgical feast day honouring one or more early saints named Valentinus and is
recognized as a significant cultural and commercial celebration in many regions
around the world, although it is not a public holiday in any country. Several martyrdom stories associated with
various Valentines that were connected to February 14 were added to later
martyrologies, including a popular hagiographical account of Saint Valentine of
Rome which indicated he was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers who
were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians, who were persecuted
under the Roman Empire. According to
legend, during his imprisonment, Saint Valentine healed the daughter of his
jailer, Asterius, and before his execution, he wrote her a letter signed “Your
Valentine” as a farewell. The day first
became associated with romantic love within the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in
the 14<sup>th</sup> century, when the tradition of courtly love
flourished. In 18<sup>th</sup>-century
England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for
each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting
cards (known as “valentines”). In
Europe, Saint Valentine’s Keys are given to lovers “as a romantic symbol and an
invitation to unlock the giver’s heart”, as well as to children, in order to
ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine’s Malady). Valentine’s Day symbols that are used today
include heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19<sup>th</sup> century,
handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards. Saint Valentine’s Day is an official feast
day in the Anglican Communion, as well as the Lutheran Cgurch. Many parts of the Eastern Orthodox Church
also celebrate Saint Valentine’s Day, albeit on July 6 and July 30, the former
date in honor of the Roman presbyter Saint Valentine, and the latter date in
honor of Hieromartyr Valentine, the Bishop of Interamna (modern Terni).” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Saint Valentine, officially Saint Valentine of Rome, is a
widely recognized third-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and
associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. All that is reliably known of the saint
commemorated on February 14 is his name and that he was martyred and buried at
a cemetery on the Via Flaminia close to the Milvian bridge to the north of Rome
on that day. It is uncertain whether St.
Valentine is to be indentified as one saint or the conflation of two saints of
the same name. Several different
martyrologies have been added to later hagiographies that are unreliable. Because so little is known to him, in 1969
the Roman Catholic Church removed his name from the General Roman Calendar,
leaving his liturgical celebration to local calendars. The Roman Catholic Church continues to
recognize him as a saint, listing him as such in the February 14 entry in the
Roman Martyrology and authorizing liturgical veneration of him on February 14
in any place where that day is not devoted to some other obligatory celebration
in accordance with the rule that on such a day the Mass may be that of any
saint listed in the Martyrology for that day.
Use of the pre-1970 liturgical calendar is also authorized under the
conditions indicated in the motu propio Summorum Pontificum of 2007. Saint Valentine’s Church in Rome, built in
1960 for the needs of the Olympic Village, continues as a modern, well-visited
parish church.” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One thing for certain in life, aside from death, is falling
in love. And an integral part of falling
in love is Saint Valentine and Valentine’s Day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“Valentine’s Day”. Retrieved on
February 14, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“Saint Valentine”. Retrieved on
February 14, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Valentine">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Valentine</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-80336823477620155572016-02-12T07:52:00.004-08:002016-02-12T07:52:49.662-08:00U.N. Decade on Biodiversity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jbeot3Rocto/Vr3_r-_FecI/AAAAAAAADIU/NudCCdA4ieQ/s1600/1A%2B-%2BU.N.%2BDecade%2Bon%2BBiodiversity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="75" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jbeot3Rocto/Vr3_r-_FecI/AAAAAAAADIU/NudCCdA4ieQ/s200/1A%2B-%2BU.N.%2BDecade%2Bon%2BBiodiversity.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
U.N. DECADE ON BIODIVERSITY</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 12, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Biodiversity” is commonly used as a term to replace the
more clearly defines and previously established terms “species diversity” and
“species richness”. Biologists often
define biodiversity as the totality of genes, species and ecosystems of a
particular region. The advantage of this
definition is that it describes the most common circumstances and presents a
universally accepted view of the traditional types of biological variety
previously identified such as: (1) Taxonomic Diversity which is usually measured
at the species diversity level; (2) Ecological Diversity which is often viewed
from the perspective of ecosystem diversity; and, (3) Morphological Diversity
which can be traced back from genetic diversity.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Biodiversity is such an important aspect of environmental
protection that the United Nations General Assembly declared 2011-2020 the
United Nations Decade on Biodiversity under Resolution 65/161. The UN Decade on Biodiversity is intended to
support and promote the implementation of the goals and objectives of the
Strategic Plan for Biodiversity and the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, with the
goal of significantly curbing biodiversity loss.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is a researched material on the UN Decade on
Biodiversity… “On December 22, 2010,
building on the International Year of Biodiversity (2010) and the goal of
significantly reducing biodiversity loss, the United Nations General Assembly
declared 2011-2020 the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity (Resolution
65/161). The UN Decade on Biodiversity
serves to support and promote implementation of the objectives of the Strategic
Plan for Biodiversity and Aichi Biodiversity Targets, which were adopted at the
10<sup>th</sup> Conference of the Parties to the CBD, in Nagoya, Japan, in
2010. Throughout the UN Decade on
Biodiversity, governments are encouraged to develop, implement and communicate
the results of national strategies for implementation of the Strategic Plan for
Biodiversity. It also seeks to promote
the involvement of a variety of national and intergovernmental factors and
other stakeholders in the goal of mainstreaming biodiversity into broader
development planning and economic activities.
The aim will be to place special focus on supporting actions that
address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss, including production and
consumption patterns.” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The year 2016 is well within the period of the UN Decade on
Biodiversity.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia (2016).
“United Nations Decade on Biodiversity”.
Retrieved on February 12, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Decade_on_Biodiversity">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Decade_on_Biodiversity</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-37201915514785104532016-02-12T07:37:00.000-08:002016-02-12T07:37:33.080-08:00Green Vote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6szqaUGQwqw/Vr38LFukSiI/AAAAAAAADII/-ejyhENI5bk/s1600/Green%2BVote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6szqaUGQwqw/Vr38LFukSiI/AAAAAAAADII/-ejyhENI5bk/s200/Green%2BVote.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GREEN VOTE</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 12, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is a green vote?
For our purpose, let’s suppose that the definition of “green vote” is a
vote for public office candidates who are supportive of pro-environment state
policies and legislation, are knowledgeable about the problems and issues that
involves the environment, encourage pro-environmental initiatives, and would
always prefer to take the side of Mother Earth over other interests. This is a very tough requirement as most
politicians are into the business of politics because of popularity or they
belong to political families who look at politics as their business and
livelihood. This is just a general
statement as there are also people in elected positions who are qualified and
deserve to be there… although they seem to be the exception rather than the
norm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is also obvious that most candidates know less about the
environment and would try to convince their audience with other issues (such as
peace and order, graft and corruption, law and order and criminality, job and
livelihood opportunities creation, etc.) which are all in the socio-economic
and political realm. A keen observation
on the type of messaging 2016 presidential candidates make will reveal that
either they don’t care about the environment or are afraid to venture into
environmental science which is not part of their core competency. They also must know that there is hardly a
green vote.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are 54,363,329 registered voters in the Philippines
who are expected to cast their votes in May this year. If we go by previous statistics, only 2.4% of
our population have an acceptable level of awareness on environmental issues
and concerns… therefore, approximately 1.3 million voters. However, out of the 1.3 million only 8.2% have
real knowledge on environmental issues and concerns… which translates to
approximately 106 thousand voters out of the 2.17 million who have acceptable
knowledge on the environmental matters.
If a presidential candidate needs at least 16 million votes to win and a
senator needs at least 10 million votes to win, securing 106 thousand green
votes will be less of a priority in crafting their campaign strategy. This simply means that communicating
environmental issues and concerns, as part of the campaign messaging strategy,
may not be an effective tool.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There really is more effort to be made in developing a
respectable green vote… perhaps in preparation for the next elections. For our national elections scheduled in May
2016, pro-environmental advocates, activists and nature lovers will have to
sadly accept that they still are not relevant and have less influence in
national public policy-crafting and governance.
Hopefully, however, in the future, environmentalism will be an important
part of the political landscape and where there will be an influential green
vote.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-39762134652466533402016-02-12T02:37:00.000-08:002016-02-12T02:37:04.028-08:00London Convention and Protocol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-114Bdpwa6_A/Vr21tXLoRmI/AAAAAAAADH4/tZJ7b7uf7zY/s1600/1A%2B-%2BLondon%2BConvention%2Band%2BProtocol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-114Bdpwa6_A/Vr21tXLoRmI/AAAAAAAADH4/tZJ7b7uf7zY/s200/1A%2B-%2BLondon%2BConvention%2Band%2BProtocol.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LONDON CONVENTION AND PROTOCOL</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 12, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is common knowledge that approximately 71% of the earth’s
surface is covered by water and the oceans and seas hold about 96.5% of all
earth’s water. These staggering data on
the volume of water around us makes dumping of wastes in water bodies a very
critical issue and concern. Towards the
end and purpose of protecting our oceans and seas, the London Convention and
Protocol was conceived.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is a researched material on the London Convention and
Protocol… “The Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of
wastes and Other Matter 1972, commonly called the “London Convention” or “LC
‘72” and also abbreviated as Marine Dumping, is an agreement to control
pollution of the sea by dumping and to encourage regional agreements
supplementary to the Convention. It
covers the deliberate disposal at sea of wastes or other matter from vessels,
aircraft, and platforms. It does not
cover discharges from land-based sources such as pipes and outfalls, wastes
generated incidental to normal operation of vessels, or placement of materials
for purposes other than mere disposal, providing such disposal is not contrary
to aims of the Convention. It was
entered into force in 1975. As of 2013,
there were 87 Parties to the Convention.
The Convention was called for by the United Nations Conference on Human
Environment (June 1972, Stockholm), the treaty was drafted at the
Intergovernmental Conference on the Convention on Dumping of Wastes at Sea (13
November 1972, London) and it was opened for signature on 29 December
1972. It entered into force on 30 August
1975 when 15 nations ratified it. As of
1 October 2001, there were 78 Contracting Parties to the Convention. International Administration of the
Convention functions through Consultative Meetings held at International
Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London. The London Convention consists of 22 Articles
and three Annexes. It follows a “black
list/grey list” approach to regulating ocean dumping; Annex I materials (black
list) generally may not be ocean dumped (though for certain Annex I materials
dumping may be permissible it present only as “trace contaminants” or “rapidly
rendered harmless” and Annex II materials (grey list) require “special
care”. Annex III lays out general
technical factors to be considered in establishing criteria for issuance of
ocean dumping permits. The main
objective of the London Convention is to prevent indiscriminate disposal at sea
of wastes that could be liable for creating hazards to human health, harming
living resources and marine life; damaging amenities; or interfering with other
legitimate uses of the sea. The 1972
Convention extends its scope over “all marine waters other than the internal
waters” of the States and prohibits the dumping of certain hazardous
materials. It further required a prior
special permit for the dumping of a number of other identified materials and a
prior general permit for other wastes or matter.” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We often read about and hear this statement: “Water is
Life”. And if life on earth anchors on
clean and healthy water, this international accord becomes critically
important… the London Convention and Protocol.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please visit,
like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“London Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of
Wastes and Other Matter”. Retrieved on
February 12, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Convention_on_the_Prevention_of_Marine_Pollution_by_Dumping_of_Wastes_and_Other_Matter">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Convention_on_the_Prevention_of_Marine_Pollution_by_Dumping_of_Wastes_and_Other_Matter</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-86316559298436594602016-02-11T17:37:00.003-08:002016-02-11T17:37:36.975-08:00Forest Genetic Resources<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYLVl56FBF4/Vr03SwJA8yI/AAAAAAAADHo/uOTg1V7sIW0/s1600/1A%2B-%2BForest%2BGenetic%2BResources.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="59" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYLVl56FBF4/Vr03SwJA8yI/AAAAAAAADHo/uOTg1V7sIW0/s200/1A%2B-%2BForest%2BGenetic%2BResources.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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FOREST GENETIC RESOURCES</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 12, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
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Forest genetic resources have traditionally been managed by
Mother Nature… the wind, the unassuming bee and other insects have plucked and
delivered pollens from one flower to another is part of this natural
process. Man, being the most intelligent
being in the animal kingdom, and his science, however, started to dip his
fingers on this process. This is not at
all wrong and this must be shared, managed and protected on a sustainable
basis.</div>
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<br /></div>
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To increase our knowledge and awareness, here is a
researched material on forest genetic resources… “Forest genetic resources or
tree genetic resources are genetic material of shrub and tree species of actual
or future value. Forest genetic
resources are essential for forest-depending communities who rely for a
substantial part of their livelihoods on timber and non-timber forest products
(for example fruits, gums and resins) for food security, domestic use and
income generation. These resources are
also the basis for large-scale wood production in planted forests to satisfy
the worldwide need for timber and paper.
Genetic resources of several important timber, fruit and other
non-timber tree species are conserved ex situ in genebanks or maintained in
field collections. Nevertheless, in situ
conservation in forests and on farms is in the case of most tree species the
most important measure to protect their genetic resources. A better understanding of the diversity of
these species is crucial for their sustainable use and conservation. Monitoring of patterns of distribution and
genetic diversity of these species allows the prioritization of populations for
in situ conservation, identification of populations and species most at risk
and existing gaps in genebank collection.
Also available in French and Spanish.
This is vital information which helps tackle global challenges such as
food security and climate change. In
2014, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations published the
first State of the World’s Forest Genetic Resources. The publication addressed the conservation,
management and sustainable use of forest tree and other woody plant genetic
resources of actual and potential value for human well-being in the broad range
of management systems. It was prepared
based on information provided by 86 countries, outcomes from regional and
subregional consultations, and commissioned thematic studies. Amongst the ten key findings, half of the
forest species reported as regularly utilized by countries are threatened by
the conversion of forest to pastures and farmland, overexploitation, and the
impacts of climate change. On the basis
of the information and knowledge compiled by FAO for the State of the World’s
Forest Genetic Resources, the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and
Agriculture developed the Global Plan of Action for the Conservation,
Sustainable Use and Development of Forest Genetic Resources. This Global Plan of Action identified 27
strategic priorities grouped into 4 areas: (1) improving the availability of,
and access to, information on forest genetic resources; (2) conservation of
forest genetic resources (in situ and ex situ); (3) sustainable use,
development and management of forest genetic resources; (4) policies, institutions
and capacity-building.” (Wikipedia)</div>
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There are admirable initiatives, which must be fully
supported, that aim to develop, manage and protect forest genetic resources.</div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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<br /></div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Wikipedia, (2016).
“Forest Genetic Resources”.
Retrieved on February 12, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_genetic_resources">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_genetic_resources</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-84965347120037420052016-02-07T08:40:00.000-08:002016-02-07T08:40:06.887-08:00The Fire Monkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEV9Uhv67Kk/VrdzS8f_CdI/AAAAAAAADHY/pV-1zzT3I6M/s1600/1A%2B-%2BThe%2BFire%2BMonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEV9Uhv67Kk/VrdzS8f_CdI/AAAAAAAADHY/pV-1zzT3I6M/s200/1A%2B-%2BThe%2BFire%2BMonkey.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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THE FIRE MONKEY</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 8, 2016</div>
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Today, February 8, 2016, marks the beginning of the Year of
the Monkey based on the Chinese lunar calendar.
Specific for this year, 2016, is the Fire Monkey or the Red Monkey. A lunar calendar is a calendar based on the
cycles of the lunar phases. This is
directly different from the Gregorian calendar, or solar calendar, which is
based on the revolution of the earth around the sun. Since there are a little over twelve
lunations (synodic months) in a solar year, the lunar year has 12 lunar months
(or 254.37 days)… as opposed to 365 days in a solar year.</div>
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Here is a researched material on the people born in the Year
of the Monkey, what to expect, and what is in store in the Year of the Fire
Monkey… “The year of the Monkey is ideal
for a quantum leap in your life! Now is
the time to shake things up, create change, and innovate a new path. Join Monkey’s enthusiast energy when risks
are rewarded and anything can happen.
Even the most ambitious plans can succeed. There will be more than enough action and
opportunity to keep you busy. In Monkey
year, it’s fine to just make it up as you go along. Just don’t be gullible and trust the wrong
people, or wily Monkey will take all the peanuts and leave you only shells. Those born in Monkey years (1908, 1920, 1932,
1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016) are clever, sharp, mercurial, and
entertaining. They are wonderful to be
around because they are fun, creative, and bring the sparkling energy that only
Monkey can provide. Monkey embodies
strong leadership potential and, like their bestfriend the Dragon, won’t allow
anyone to tell her what to do.
Uninhibited Monkey rarely gets embarrassed by anything, and is free to
express herself fearlessly. In addition
to acute mental alertness, Monkey also possesses physical stamina. Monkey is good with her hands, has skills and
dexterity with machines, naturally has technological talents, and can easily
master new concepts. A superb
generalist, Monkey can do anything! In
relationships, a Monkey loves romance, and is very sensitive and generous. But she can be fickle, run hot and cold, and
treat relationships like a game. But
everyone loves the Monkey, and the birth rate skyrockets in Asia during a
Monkey year. Of the five Taoist elements
Fire, Earth, Water, and Wood, this is the year of the red Fire Monkey. Red means go!
Fire brings passion, creativity, and joy. Fire types are strong, dynamic, and can
overcome illness and obstacles. Just be
aware to not jump ahead of yourself this year, especially during the heat of
summer. And try to calm what is called
Monkey mind in Buddhism: jump to a branch, grab a banana, peel it, take a bite,
drop it. Then jump to the next branch,
grab a banana, peel it, take a bite, and drop it in a useless tail-chasing
cycle. As soon as you realize that a
path is not fruitful, try a new one instead of staying stuck and trying to
analyze the past. Monkey year is very
fortunate for all Monkeys, and for Monkey’s friends the Rat, Dragon, and
Snake. Monkey energy can, at times, be
problematic for the Tiger. Monkey
correlates to the western sign Leo.” (Susan Levitt)</div>
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Most Feng Shui practitioners will say that the character and
expectations akin to Monkeys also normally apply even to those with other
lunations… although degrees of occurrence and strength of opportunity may
vary. Monkeys are just lucky for this is
their year… the year of the Fire Monkey.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Susanlevitt.com, (2016).
“Monkey Year 2016”. Retrieved on
February 8, 2016 from </div>
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<a href="http://susanlevitt.com/astrology/monkey-year-2016/">http://susanlevitt.com/astrology/monkey-year-2016/</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-31869238970122292922016-02-07T08:36:00.000-08:002016-02-07T08:36:02.835-08:00No to GMO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MgGU93HvBII/VrdyXqIOzWI/AAAAAAAADHQ/URTlNYtYEI4/s1600/1A%2B-%2BNo%2Bto%2BGMO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MgGU93HvBII/VrdyXqIOzWI/AAAAAAAADHQ/URTlNYtYEI4/s200/1A%2B-%2BNo%2Bto%2BGMO.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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NO TO GMO</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 8, 2016</div>
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GMO or genetically modified organism refers to any food
product that has been altered at the gene level. Awareness on the process by which GMO foods
are being produced has been spreading in the last five years. With people all over the world becoming more
aware of the truth behind gene modifications in plants (using genes from other
plants, animals, bacterium and viruses) the level of resistance to GMOs has
dramatically increased.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In the Philippines, the Supreme Court went as far as ban GMO
crop trials. Here is a research material
on this particular legal initiative…</div>
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“HISTORIC SUPREME COURT RULING BANS GMO CROP TRIALS IN THE
PHILIPPINES… The Supreme Court of the Philippines has ordered a permanent ban on
field trials of GMO eggplant and a temporary halt on approving applications for
the “continued use, import, commercialization and propagation” of GMO crops,
including the import of GMO products.
The court rules in favour of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, as well as
several Filipino activists, academics and politicians, in a major victory for
Filipino farmers and activists around the world. “This decision builds on a wave of countries
in Europe rejecting GE crops and is a major setback for the GE industry,” said
Virginia Benosa-Llorin, Ecological Agriculture campaigner for Greenpeace
Philippines. “The Philippines has been
used as a model for GE regulatory policy around the world, but now we are
finally making progress to give people a right to choose the food they want to
eat and the type of agriculture they want to encourage.” The temporary ban is in place until a new
“administrative order” takes effect and includes the highly controversial GMO
golden rice, an experimental project by International Rice Research Institute
(IRRI) that is currently back at the R&D stage due to the crop’s poor
performance. The Supreme Court decision
sets a global precedent as it is the first legal decision on GMO in the
Philippines using the Writ of Kalikasan (environment) --- a legal environmental
remedy found only in the Philippines.
The court is also the first in the world to adopt the precautionary
principle --- which holds that it is
best to err on the side of caution in the absence of scientific consensus ---
regarding GMO products in its decision.
“This case vindicates the many cases of genetic contamination we and
others have highlighted, as well as the simple fact that there is no scientific
consensus on the safety of genetically engineered crops,” said Benosa-Llorin. “It’s a major victory for Filipinos,
especially for farmers struggling with incidents of genetic
contamination.” “GE crops promote an
ineffective farming model based on industrial agriculture, a system that cannot
withstand the impacts of a rapidly changing climate and which is failing to
deliver what Filipinos currently need: food and nutritional security in times
of erratic weather patterns,” said Benosa-Llorin. The decision of the high court invalidates
the Department of Agriculture’s Administrative Order No. 08-2002 (DAOS) and
will bar the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Science and
Technology from issuing any GE approvals, pending crafting and approval of a
new administrative order. It will also
impact the trade of GE crops and products.
The Supreme Court affirmed the May 2013 Court of Appeals order for the
government to prepare an immediate plan of action to rehabilitate field trial
sites and protect, preserve and conserve the environment, as well as
recommending measure to reform the current regulatory process. Greenpeace Southeast Asia calls on the
Philippines government to support ecological agriculture policies, investments
and funding.” (ecowatch.com)</div>
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In the absence of reasonable and acceptable scientific proof
of the safety of genetically engineered food products, we will just have to say
no to GMO.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Ecowatch.com, (2015).
“GMOs Philippines”. Retrieved on
February 8, 2016 from <a href="http://ecowatch.com/2015/12/14/gmos-philippines/">http://ecowatch.com/2015/12/14/gmos-philippines/</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-8446400823366958312016-02-06T16:28:00.003-08:002016-02-06T16:28:38.207-08:00Nagoya Protocol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRNG6DPVHWE/VraPoowtSjI/AAAAAAAADHA/Bnvmc-RPcdc/s1600/1A%2B-%2BNagoya%2BProtocol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRNG6DPVHWE/VraPoowtSjI/AAAAAAAADHA/Bnvmc-RPcdc/s200/1A%2B-%2BNagoya%2BProtocol.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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NAGOYA PROTOCOL</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 7, 2016</div>
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“The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the
Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization to the
Convention on Biological Diversity is a 2010 supplementary agreement to the
1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
It provides a transparent legal framework for the implementation of one
of the three objectives of the CBD: the fair and equitable sharing of benefits
arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, thereby contributing to
the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. The Protocol was adopted on 29 October 2010
in Nagoya, Japan, and entered into force on 12 October 2014. It has been ratified by 69 parties, which
includes 68 states and the European Union.
It is the second Protocol to the CBD; the first is the 2000 Cartagena
Protocol on Biosafety. The Nagoya
Protocol is intended to create greater legal certainty and transparency for
both providers and users of genetic resources by: (1) Establishing more
predictable conditions for access to genetic resources; and, (2) Helping to
ensure benefit-sharing when genetic resources leave the contradicting party
providing the genetic resources. By
helping to ensure benefit-sharing, the Protocol creates incentives to conserve
and sustainably use genetic resources, and therefore enhance the contribution
of biodiversity to development and human well-being. The Nagoya Protocol applies to genetic
resources that are covered by the CBD and to the benefits arising from their
utilization. The Nagoya Protocol sets
out obligations for its contracting parties to take measures in relation to
access to genetic resources, benefit-sharing and compliance.” (Wikipedia)</div>
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Please read the blogs listed below (references) for more
information on and a better understanding of the Nagoya Protocol.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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<br /></div>
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REFERENCES:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Antonio, A. C., (2016).
“Cartagena Protocol”. Retrieved
on February 7, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/cartagena-protocol.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/cartagena-protocol.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A. C., (2016).
“Convention on Biological Diversity”.
Retrieved on February 7, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/convention-on-biological-diversity.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/convention-on-biological-diversity.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A. C., (2016).
“Genetic Resources”. Retrieved on
February 7, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/genetic-resources.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/genetic-resources.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Wikipedia, (2016).
“Nagoya Protocol”. Retrieved on
February 7, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagoya_Protocol">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagoya_Protocol</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-6572089703938238662016-02-05T16:17:00.000-08:002016-02-05T16:17:04.799-08:00Genetic Resources<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clEwyKLDF6E/VrU7bAyoA5I/AAAAAAAADGw/5WJDxrP5F4s/s1600/1A%2B-%2BGenetic%2BResources.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clEwyKLDF6E/VrU7bAyoA5I/AAAAAAAADGw/5WJDxrP5F4s/s200/1A%2B-%2BGenetic%2BResources.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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GENETIC RESOURCES</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 6, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What are genetic resources?
The following is a researched material on genetic resources… “Genetic
resources (GRs) refer to genetic material of actual or potential value. Genetic material is any material of plant,
animal, microbial or other origin containing functional units of heredity. Examples include material of plant, animal,
or microbial origin, such as medicinal plants, agricultural crops and animal
breeds. GRs as encountered in nature are
not creations of the human mind and thus they cannot be directly protected as
intellectual property (IP). However,
there are IP issues associated with GRs.
Inventions or plant varieties based on or developed using GRs
(associated with traditional knowledge or not) may be patentable or protected
by plant breeders’ rights. In
considering IP issues associated with GRs, WIPO’s (World Intellectual Property
Organization) work complements the framework for access and benefit-sharing
provided by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and its Nagoya
Protocol, and the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and
Agriculture of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). (Wikipedia)</div>
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<br /></div>
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I’ve listed several references on genetics, genetically
modified organisms, GMO-free food products and Genetics to compliment the
above-researched material.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The Nagoya Protocol (which will be featured in an up-coming
blog) encourages all parties to allow access to data and information considered
to be genetic resources.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCES:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C., (2016). “Genetically Modified Organisms”. Retrieved on February 6, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/genetically-modified-organisms.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/genetically-modified-organisms.html</a>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C., (2016). “GMO-Free”. Retrieved on February 6, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/gmo-free.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/gmo-free.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C., (2016). “Genetics”. Retrieved on February 6, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/genetics.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/genetics.html</a>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“Genetics”. Retrieved on February
6, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetics">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetics</a></div>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-55056080333343893712016-02-04T15:00:00.000-08:002016-02-04T15:00:19.428-08:00Genetics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EaL8z5Pmd_0/VrPX8tj4BgI/AAAAAAAADGg/yZd2FBKMfqE/s1600/1A%2B-%2BGenetics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EaL8z5Pmd_0/VrPX8tj4BgI/AAAAAAAADGg/yZd2FBKMfqE/s200/1A%2B-%2BGenetics.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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GENETICS</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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February 5, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Genetics is a branch of science which only a very few
understand. These few individuals spent
most of their lives in academic training and scholarly work on a not-so-popular
field of science for them to become knowledgeable in this field of study. Not popular as it is, genetics, however,
suddenly got into the consciousness of consumers all over the world. The awareness on GMO (genetically modified
organisms) began to increase in the last five years; people started asking
questions on the safety and sustainability of GMO food products.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For us to better understand genetics as a science here is a
researched material on this particular subject… “Genetics is the study of
genes, heredity, and genetic variation in living organisms. It is generally considered a field of
biology, but it intersects frequently with many of the life sciences and is
strongly linked with the study of information systems. The father of genetics is Gregor Mendel, a
late 19<sup>th</sup> century scientist and Augustinian friar. Mendel studied “trait inheritance”, patterns
in the way traits were handed down from parents to offspring. He observed that organisms (pea plants) inherit
traits by way of discrete “units of inheritance”. This term, still used today, is a somewhat
ambiguous definition of what is referred to as a gene. Trait inheritance and molecule inheritance
mechanisms of genes are still a primary principle of genetics in the 21<sup>st</sup>
century, but modern genetics has expanded beyond inheritance to studying the
function and behaviour of genes. Gene
structure and function, variation, and distribution are studies within the
context of the cell, the organism (therefore, dominance) and within the context
of a population. Genetics has given rise
to a number of sub-fields including epigenetics and population genetics. Organisms studied within the broad field span
the domain of life, including bacteria, plants, animals, and humans. Genetic processes work in combination with an
organism’s environment and experiences to influence development and behaviour,
often referred to as nature versus nature.
The intra- or extra-cellular environment of a cell or organism may
switch gene transcription on or off. A
classic example is two seeds of genetically identical corn, one placed in a
temperate climate and one in an arid climate.
While the average height of the two corn stalks may be genetically
determined to be equal, the one in arid climate only grows to half the height of
the one in the temperate climate, due to lack of water and nutrients in its
environment. The observation that living
things inherit traits from their parents has been used since prehistoric times
to improve crop plants and animals through selective breeding. The modern science of genetics, seeking to
understand this process, began with the work of Gregor Mendel in the mid-19<sup>th</sup>
century. Although the science of
genetics began with the applied and theoretical work of Mendel, other theories
of inheritance preceded his work. A
popular theory during Mendel’s time was the concept of blending inheritance:
the idea that individuals inherit a smooth blend of traits from their
parents. Mendel’s work provided examples
where traits were definitely not blended after hybridization, showing that
traits are produced by combinations of distinct genes rather than a continuous
blend. Blending of traits in the progeny
is now explained by the action of multiple genes with quantitative effects. Another theory that had some support at that
time was the inheritance of acquired characteristics: the belief that
individuals inherit traits strengthened by their parents. This theory (commonly associated with
Jean-Baptiste Lamarck) is now known to be wrong --- the experiences of individuals
do not affect the genes they pass to their children, although evidence in the
field of epigenetics has revived some aspects of Lamarck’s theory. Other theories included the pangenesis of
Charles Darwin (which had both acquired and inherited aspects) and Francis
Galton’s reformulation of pangenesis as both particulate and inherited.”
(Wikipedia)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Genetic modification has a lot to do with the proliferation
of GMOs (genetically modified organisms) food products at present. Whether this is a cure or curse to our food
supply efforts is something only the Gods know.
Wouldn’t it be wise to leave this in their (Gods) hands than to mortal
scientists through genetics?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C., (2016). “Genetically Modified
Organisms”. Retrieved on February 5,
2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/genetically-modified-organisms.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/genetically-modified-organisms.html</a>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C., (2016). “GMO-Free”. Retrieved on February 5, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/gmo-free.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/02/gmo-free.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2016).
“Genetics”. Retrieved on February
5, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetics">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetics</a></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-24190490970780282842016-02-04T06:23:00.001-08:002016-02-04T06:23:40.603-08:00GMO-Free<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kJbe8w2OgQ/VrNex0UPaVI/AAAAAAAADGQ/3Rsl7u3iyYI/s1600/GMO-Free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kJbe8w2OgQ/VrNex0UPaVI/AAAAAAAADGQ/3Rsl7u3iyYI/s200/GMO-Free.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
GMO-Free</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 4, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Genetics is a branch of science which only a very few
understand. These few individuals spent
most of their lives in academic study, clinical training and scholarly work on
a not-so-popular field of science for them to become competently knowledgeable
in this field of study. Not popular as
it is, genetics, however, suddenly got into the consciousness of people
(particularly consumers) all over the world after genetically modified
organisms or GMOs became headline news.
The awareness on GMO began to increase in the last five years; people
started asking questions on the safety and sustainability of GMO food products.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What does GMO mean?
GMO is an acronym which stands for “genetically modified organisms”
which refers to food products that has been altered at the gene level. There are other terms that are also being
used to describe GMOs such as “genetically engineered”, “genetically altered” or
“genetically manipulated.” </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Plant modification is not new. Gardeners and farmers have been doing this
for centuries in a process called crossbreeding… and crossbreeding of different
species of plants have resulted to bigger and more beautiful harvests. Modern genetic engineering, however, is
dramatically different from the simple traditional crossbreeding techniques,
methods and practices. The malaise that
accompanies modern-day GMO technology is born out of the genetic engineering of
plant genes using genes from other plants, animals, bacterium and/or
viruses. This process irreversibly
alters the genetic code or genetic blueprint that determines the organism’s
physical characteristics. This modern
genetic alteration method managed to produce plants and food products that (1)
are weed-resistant, (2) produce their own pesticides, (3) glow in the dark when
they need water, (4) contains vaccines against diseases such as malaria,
cholera and hepatitis, and (5) contains a higher level of vitamins and minerals. Genetically engineered crops in production at
present are corn, soybeans, cotton and canola oil. Genetically engineered corn soybean
derivatives such as soy oil, soy flour, soy protein isolates, corn oil, corn
starch, corn flour, and high fructose corn syrup are likewise considered as
GMOs.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pro-GMO proponents believe that the genetic engineering
technology will ensure food security.
However, a growing number of scientists, health professionals,
environmentalists and consumers are worried that the growing number of
genetically modified foods in our food supply may cause more problems (to
health and wellbeing of people and the environment) in the long run.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Food production is the biggest business activity in the
world. The food supply chain is of critical
importance because people have to eat and their consumption patterns provide
the backdrop for business to produce more food in the name of food
security. The danger of this purely
business mindset is the fact that business is always in there for the money…
the profits. Food producers may easily
label their products as “GMO-free” --- again, in the name of profits and
profitability --- but what guarantee do we (consumers) have that they really
are “GMO-free”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-49632477612970555812016-02-02T12:44:00.002-08:002016-02-02T12:44:53.017-08:00Cloud Seeding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9r_cKC4T8I/VrEVMT5L5hI/AAAAAAAADGA/CLykSyRb67o/s1600/1A%2B-%2BCloud%2BSeeding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9r_cKC4T8I/VrEVMT5L5hI/AAAAAAAADGA/CLykSyRb67o/s200/1A%2B-%2BCloud%2BSeeding.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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CLOUD SEEDING</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 3, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I visited the University of the Philippines Open University
campus in Los Baños, Laguna yesterday.
After meetings with my favourite dean, Dr. Inocencio E. Buot, Jr. and
favourite mentors, Dr. Consuelo dL. Habito and Dr. Joanne V. Serrano, I decided
to head back for the Big City. However,
on my way out of the main building, the headquarters of UPOU, I chanced upon a
colleague and we had an interesting conversation. After exchanging pleasantries we, as usual
for environmental diehards, talked about the environment. He expressed concern about the El Niño
phenomenon which is presently wreaking havoc on agricultural activities in some
parts of the country especially Mindanao.
He asked me about the possible solutions and I offered the following:
(1) The planting of alternative crops to rice like soy beans which require less
water and have a shorter planting-harvesting cycle; (2) Alternative livelihood
opportunities for affected farmers to augment their income; and, (3) Cloud
seeding.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is cloud seeding?
Cloud seeding is a form of weather modification. It is a microphysical process that attempts
to change the amount or type of precipitation that falls from clouds through
the introduction of substances into the atmosphere that serves as cloud
condensation or ice nuclei. Here is a
researched material on cloud seeding… “Cloud seeding also occurs due to ice
nucleators in nature, most of which are bacterial in origin. The most common chemicals used for cloud seeding
include silver iodide, potassium iodide and dry ice (solid carbon
dioxide). Liquid propane, which expands
into a gas, has also been used. This can produce ice crystals at higher
temperatures than silver iodide. After
promising research, the use of hygroscopic materials, such as table salt, is
becoming more popular. In mid-latitude
clouds, the usual seeding strategy has been based on the fact that the
equilibrium vapour pressure is lower over ice than over water. The formation of ice particles in super
cooled clouds allows those particles to grow at the expense of liquid
droplets. If sufficient growth takes
place, the particles become heavy enough to fall as precipitation from clouds
that otherwise would produce no precipitation.
This process is known as “static” seeding. Seeding of warm-season tropical cumulonimbus
(convective) clouds seeks to exploit the latent heat released by freezing. This strategy of “dynamic” seeding assumes
that the additional latent heat adds buoyancy, strengthens updrafts, ensures
more low-level convergence, and ultimately causes rapid growth of properly
selected clouds. Cloud seeding chemicals
may be dispersed by aircraft or by dispersion devices located on the ground
(generators or canisters fired from anti-aircraft guns or rockets). For release by aircraft, silver iodide flares
are ignited and dispersed as an aircraft flies through the inflow of a
cloud. When released by devices on the
ground, the fine particles are carries downward and upward by air currents
after release.” (Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the El Niño phenomenon is an inevitable part of our
weather system in the light of climate change, measures should really be on
hand and available to mitigate its impact… one such solution is cloud seeding.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia (2016).
“Could Seeding”. Retrieved on
February 3, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_seeding">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_seeding</a></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-53451879013273750032016-02-01T07:49:00.000-08:002016-02-01T07:49:04.021-08:00Game Changer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CWnCi_1WKQ/Vq9-WmQ1vTI/AAAAAAAADFw/15uOZcygyZQ/s1600/1A%2B-%2BGame%2BChanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CWnCi_1WKQ/Vq9-WmQ1vTI/AAAAAAAADFw/15uOZcygyZQ/s200/1A%2B-%2BGame%2BChanger.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GAME CHANGER</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 2, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Three days ago, I published (on my blogsite <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>)
an article titled “Respect”. The last
paragraph reads: “Last year, however, when two world leaders --- Pope Francis
of the Holy See and President Barack H. Obama of the United States of America
--- spoke on the realities of climate change… the world paused and
listened. After the Paris Climate Talks
last December (2015), people and the world now view and treat pro-environment
advocates and activists with a little bit more respect.” (Antonio, 2016) In the beginning of the article, I also wrote
how pro-environment advocates and activists were not treated fairly before. I should say, however, that the timely
intervention of Pope Francis and President Obama changed the attitude of
people… and that this intervention was also prompted by game changer events.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A game changer is an event, idea, or procedure that effects
a significant shift in the current manner of doing or thinking about something. In the realm of environmental science, game
changer events could be considered “freaks of nature” occurrences such as: (1)
The phenomenal flooding in Saudi Arabia which is a desert state; (2) The sudden
and unexpected snowfall in Vietnam which is a tropical country; (3) The
abnormally hot summer in the United States which is a temperate (meaning: a
region or climate characterised by mild temperatures) country; (4) The frequent and stronger hurricanes that
pass through south-central U.S.; and, (5) Other climactic conditions never
experienced before. In the Philippines
in particular, the game changer event can easily be related to Typhoon Yolanda
(International Name: “Haiyan”) which is the strongest tropical cyclone ever to
make landfall. The death toll in Typhoon
Yolanda is the biggest in Philippine modern history.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two decades or so ago, climate change was just a concept
(meaning: an abstract idea; a general notion).
From a mere concept, most people today believe, accept and feel its
presence. However, there are still
those, for whatever self-serving agenda, who deny its existence. Like climate change, they probably do not also
understand the term “game changer”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A.C. (2016). “Respect”. Retrieved on February 2,
2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/respect.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/respect.html</a></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-58288135850432787922016-02-01T06:17:00.000-08:002016-02-01T06:17:30.468-08:00UNFCCC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgDFG6lD6U4/Vq9o6fqEVfI/AAAAAAAADFg/oBksu7VlncE/s1600/1A%2B-%2BUNFCCC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgDFG6lD6U4/Vq9o6fqEVfI/AAAAAAAADFg/oBksu7VlncE/s200/1A%2B-%2BUNFCCC.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
UNFCCC</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February 1, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The persistent question from most climate change observers
is how come nothing substantial was achieved in the 20 Conferences of the
Parties (COPs) which started in 1992 and culminated in 2015 at the Paris
Climate Talks or COP 21. The United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, or UNFCCC, is a just a
framework agreement and recommends no particular level of reduction in
greenhouse gas emissions. More
importantly, as a mere framework agreement, it also lacks an enforcement
mechanism. In fact, the target in
climate change mitigation being suggested in the previous COPs held was only 2
degrees Celsius using the pre-industrial period as benchmark.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is a researched material on the UNFCCC… “The United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international environmental treaty negotiated at
the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992, then entered into
force on 21 March 1994. The UNFCCC
objective is to “stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a
level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate
system”. The framework set no binding
limits on greenhouse gas emissions for individual countries and contains no
enforcement mechanism. Instead, the
framework outlines how specific international treaties (called “protocols” or
“agreements”) may be negotiated to set binding limits on greenhouse gases. Initially an Intergovernmental Negotiating
Committee produced the text of the Framework Convention during its meeting in
New York from 30 April to 9 May 1992.
The UNFCCC was adopted on 9 May 1992, and opened for signature on 4 June
1992. UNFCCC has 197 parties as of
December 2015. The convention enjoys
broad legitimacy, largely due to its nearly universal membership. The parties to the convention have met
annually from 1995 in Conferences of the Parties (COP) to assess progress in
dealing with climate change. In 1997,
the Kyoto Protocol was concluded and established legally binding obligations
for developed countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in the period
2008-2012. The 2010 Cancun agreements
state that future global warming should be limited to below 2.0 degrees Celsius
relative to the pre-industrial level.
The protocol was amended in 2012 to encompass the period 2013-2012 in
the Doha Amendment which was – as of December 2015 – not entered into
force. In 2015 the Paris Agreement was
adopted, governing emission reductions from 2020 on through commitments of
countries in ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions. One of the first tasks set by the UNFCCC was
for signatory nations to establish national greenhouse gas inventories of
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals, which were used to create the 1990
benchmark levels for accession of Annex I countries to the Kyoto Protocol and
for the commitment of those countries to GHG reductions. Updated inventories must be regularly
submitted by Annex I countries.”
(Wikipedia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The passing of 20 COPs made people, especially climate
scientists, worried that an acceptable GHG emission-limiting mechanism will
never be realized. But prior to COP21,
or the Paris Climate Talks of 2015, the best strategy was laid on the table…
the NDC or Nationally Determined Contributions.
In this initiative, individual countries were given the freedom to set
their own individual targets. And
summing up these targets translated to a 1.5 degrees Celsius commitment from
all participating parties… not the previously targeted 2.0 degrees Celsius. With this, there is now better hope with what
was started by the UNFCCC.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REFERENCE:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia (2016).
“United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change”. Retrieved on February 1, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Framework_Convention_on_Climate_Change">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Framework_Convention_on_Climate_Change</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-31770754889143544672016-01-29T14:05:00.001-08:002016-01-29T14:05:11.117-08:00Respect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ow-iSLedp6U/Vqvh8-I03hI/AAAAAAAADFQ/2sMtresI2A0/s1600/1A%2B-%2BRespect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ow-iSLedp6U/Vqvh8-I03hI/AAAAAAAADFQ/2sMtresI2A0/s200/1A%2B-%2BRespect.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RESPECT</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
January 30, 2016</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This beautiful and moving photo was posted by my friend, Ed
Finlan, yesterday on his Facebook page.
(Please see accompanying photo.)
It is a picture of a man with his fist raised (seemingly in protest) as
he welcomes the morning sun. It made me
feel somewhat nostalgic as it brought back memories of the early days of our
pro-environmental advocacy and activism.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We used to run the streets to do surveys and studies to
determine the awareness level of people on environmental issues and concerns…
and people looked at us as if we were from a different planet. We used to talk about the sad state of our
environment in social gatherings… and people showed us obvious disconnect,
apathy and gave us cold shoulders. We
use to join public forums to defend Mother Earth… and we will be brushed away
as if we were dysfunctional. We used to
talk to government officials about alternative initiatives to mitigate the
effects of climate change… and we were treated in a very condescending manner. We definitely were not treated well and
fairly before. And this was largely the
way pro-environmental advocates and activists all over the world were treated. </div>
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Last year, however, when two world leaders --- Pope Francis
of the Holy See and President Barack H. Obama of the United States of America
--- spoke on the realities of climate change… and the world paused and
listened. And after the Paris Climate
Talks last December (2015), people and the world now view and treat pro-environment
advocates and activists with a little bit more respect.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-45839197849299631632016-01-28T14:52:00.001-08:002016-01-28T14:52:38.251-08:00International Tropical Timber Organization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF7-GKI_omM/VqqbkGcBQvI/AAAAAAAADFA/pUEtqXrrRKU/s1600/1A%2B-%2BInternational%2BTropical%2BTimber%2BOrganization.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="72" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF7-GKI_omM/VqqbkGcBQvI/AAAAAAAADFA/pUEtqXrrRKU/s200/1A%2B-%2BInternational%2BTropical%2BTimber%2BOrganization.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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INTERNATIONAL TROPICAL TIMBER ORGANIZATION</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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January 29, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
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One of the underlying messages at the Earth Summit in 1992
was the concept of sustainable development.
The World Bank defines “sustainable development” as “Development that
meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future
generations to meet their own needs.”
Sustainable development contains two key concepts: (1) the concept of
needs, in particular the essential needs of the world’s poor, to which
overriding priority should be given; and, (2) the idea of limitations imposed
by the state of technology and social organization on the environment’s ability
to meet present and future needs.</div>
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The concept of “sustainable forest management”, on the other
hand, is also anchored on the same sustainable development concept as popularized
at the Earth Summit. Popularizing and
promoting sustainable forest management is the primary objective of the
International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO).</div>
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“The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) is an
intergovernmental organization that promotes conservation of tropical forest
resources and their sustainable management, use and trade. The organization was established under the
International Tropical Timber Agreement (ITTA), which was sponsored by the
Unites Nations Conference on Trade and Development and was ratified in
1985. Its mandate was renewed by the
International Tropical Timber Agreement, 1994 and again by the International
Tropical Timber Agreement, 2006, which aims to promote sustainable management
and legal harvesting of forests that produce tropical timber, and to promote
expansion and diversification of international trade in timber from these
forests. The governing body is the
International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC).
Half the votes on the ITTC are assigned to producing countries and half
to consumers. Within each block, votes
are assigned based on market share. The
ITTO was at first primarily a commodity organization, regulating the
international trade in tropical timber.
The original mandate mentioned conservation but did not give any details. In 1990 the ITTC proposed that by 2000 all
exports of tropical timber would come from sustainably managed sources, and
this goal was adopted. In 1987 the ITTO
commissioned the Harvard Institute for International Development to prepare a
review of current knowledge of multiple-use management of tropical
forests. Of interest was the potential
for non-timber forest products and services that could assist in sustaining the
forest. HIID compiled the study in 1988
and issued updated versions in 1990 and 1992.
The ITTO publishes a quarterly newsletter, Tropical Forest Update (ISSN
1022-5439), available also online.” (Wikipedia)</div>
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Although the ITTO is an intergovernmental organization and
international in scope, the success of sustainable forest management largely
depends on the individual country’s institutions and systems that protect the
forest. Weak systems and institutional
structures, however, will most likely result to poor implementation of the
goals and objectives of the International Tropical Timber Organization.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Wikipedia, (2016). “International Tropical Timber
Organization”. Retrieved on January 29,
2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Tropical_Timber_Organization">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Tropical_Timber_Organization</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-90220662027042968242016-01-27T15:48:00.002-08:002016-01-27T15:48:26.729-08:00Biosequestration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pIWq0cF_icE/VqlXODjrQKI/AAAAAAAADEw/QsNK4DMz08w/s1600/1A%2B-%2BBiosequestration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pIWq0cF_icE/VqlXODjrQKI/AAAAAAAADEw/QsNK4DMz08w/s200/1A%2B-%2BBiosequestration.jpg" width="190" /></a></div>
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BIOSEQUESTRATION</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
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January 28, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.85pt;">
“I have often been asked this question:
“If you were to recommend just one initiative or solution to the different
environmental problems, what will it be?” After a three-year academic
study in environmental science, I’ve come to realize that environmental
problems are so diverse and multifarious that conceptualizing a single cure-all
solution will practically be like formulating a single pill (a “wonder drug”)
that could cure all conceivable medical problems of man. It’s a tough
call but there should be one. I would always answer, often automatically,
“reforestation”.” (Antonio, 2016) My
reason for choosing reforestation is without basis. Please read the following researched material
on biosequestration which only trees and plants can perform…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.85pt;">
“Biosequestration is the capture and storage
of the atmospheric greenhouse gas carbon dioxide by biological processes. This may ne by increased photosynthesis
(through practices such as reforestation / preventing deforestation and genetic
engineering); by enhanced soil carbon trapping in agriculture; or by the use of
algae biosequestration to absorb the carbon dioxide emissions from coal,
petroleum (oil) or natural gas-fired electricity generation. Biosequestration as a natural process has
occurred in the past, and was responsible for the formation of the extensive
coal and oil deposits which are now being burned. It is a key policy concept in the climate
change mitigation debate. It does not
generally refer to the sequestering of carbon dioxide in oceans or rock
formation, depleted oil or gas reservoir, deep saline aquifers, or deep coal
seams or through the use of industrial chemical carbon dioxide scrubbing. After water vapour (concentration of which
humans have limited capacity to influence) carbon dioxide is the most abundant
and stable greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.
Methane rapidly reacts to form water vapour and carbon dioxide. Atmospheric carbon dioxide has increased from
about 280 ppm in 1750 to 383 ppm in 2007 and is increasing at an average rate
of 2 ppm per year. The world’s oceans
have previously played an important role in sequestering atmospheric carbon
dioxide through solubility and the action of phytoplankton. This, and the likely adverse consequences for
humans and the biosphere of associated global warming, increases the
significance of investigating policy mechanisms for encouraging
biosequestration. The Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that the cutting down of forests is
now contributing close to 20 percent of the overall greenhouse entering the
atmosphere. There are four primary ways
in which reforestation and reducing deforestation can increase biosequestration. FIRST, by increasing the volume of existing
forest. SECOND, by increasing the carbon density of existing forest at a stand
and landscape scale. THIRD, by expanding the use of forest products that will
sustainably replace fossil-fuel emissions. FOURTH, by reducing carbon emissions
that are caused from deforestation and degradation. Land clearing reduction, the majority of the
time, create biodiversity benefits in a vast expanse of land regions. Concerns, however, arise when the density and
area of vegetation increases the grazing pressure could also increase in other
areas, causing land degradation.”
(Wikipedia)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.85pt;">
Biosequestration is a unique process that
captures and stores carbons. “Unique”
because the process goes beyond not only converting carbon dioxide into oxygen
but permanently capturing carbon as well.
This is the most environmentally helpful function of biosequestration.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCES:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Wikipedia, (2016).
“Biosequestration”. Retrieved on
January 24, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biosequestration">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biosequestration</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Antonio, A. C., (2016). “Reforestation”. Retrieved on January 28, 2016 from <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/reforestation.html">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/2016/01/reforestation.html</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-51902060655079847382016-01-26T15:02:00.001-08:002016-01-26T15:03:38.024-08:00I.U.C.N. Red List of Threatened Species<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aeOCIKW1dvI/Vqf66P2EX4I/AAAAAAAADEg/2Ydb7faBh6o/s1600/1A%2B-%2BI.U.C.N.%2BRed%2BList%2Bof%2BThreatened%2BSpecies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aeOCIKW1dvI/Vqf66P2EX4I/AAAAAAAADEg/2Ydb7faBh6o/s200/1A%2B-%2BI.U.C.N.%2BRed%2BList%2Bof%2BThreatened%2BSpecies.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I.U.C.N. RED LIST OF THREATENED SPECIES</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
January 27, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
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There are certain species of plants and animals that are
endemic (meaning: native or restricted to a certain country or area) to a
specific area. This makes awareness on
these animals and plants practically nil in other parts of the world. The extinction, therefore, of these flora and
fauna species may not be noticed at all.
Based on this condition, a general list of animal and plant species,
which are considered threatened by extinction, must be made. Towards this end, the International Union for
the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) took the challenge in coming up with such a
list. </div>
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The following is a researched material on this matter… “The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
(also known as the IUCN Red List or Red Data List), founded in 1964, is the world’s
most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological
species. The International Union for the
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the world’s main authority on the conservation
status of species. A series of Regional
Red Lists are produced by countries or organizations, which assess the risk of
extinction to species within a political management unit. The IUCN Red List is set upon precise
criteria to evaluate the extinction risk of thousands of species and
subspecies. These criteria are relevant
to all species and all regions of the world.
The aim is to convey the urgency of conservation issues to the public
and policy makers, as well as help the international community to try to reduce
species extinction. According to IUCN (1969),
the formally stated goals of the Red List are (1) to provide scientifically
based information on the status of species and subspecies at a global level,
(2) to draw attention to the magnitude and importance of threatened
biodiversity, (3) to influence national and international policy and
decision-making, and (4) to provide information to guide actions to conserve
biological diversity. Major species
assessors include BirdLife International, the Institute of Zoology (the
research division of the Zoological Society of London), the World Conservation
Monitoring Centre, and many Specialist Groups within the IUCN Species Survival
Commission (SSC). Collectively,
assessments by these organizations and groups account for nearly half the
species on the Red List. The IUCN aims
to have the category of every species re-evaluates every five years if
possible, or at least every ten years.
This is done in a peer reviewed manner through IUCN Species Survival
Commission (SSC) Specialist Groups, which are Red List Authorities responsible
for a species, group of species or specific geographical area, or in the case
of BirdLIfe International, an entire class (Aves).” (Wikipedia)</div>
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In spite of the IUCN accounting of the threatened and
endangered species, possible extinction of species still persist. Coming up with the Red List, therefore, is
not the final solution to the problem.
Success has to do with enforcement from the local level. If not, the listing will not work and it will
just be a worthless exercise. Let’s
support this initiative… the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
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REFERENCE:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wikipedia, (2015).
“IUCN Red List”. Retrieved on January 27, 2016 from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IUCN_Red_List">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IUCN_Red_List</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642935063784312242.post-42630589981157233322016-01-25T08:10:00.001-08:002016-01-25T08:10:30.261-08:00Thank You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aw-8ZhUgfZo/VqZI3HWjFSI/AAAAAAAADEQ/I6VAYaGTNps/s1600/1A%2B-%2BThank%2BYou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="103" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aw-8ZhUgfZo/VqZI3HWjFSI/AAAAAAAADEQ/I6VAYaGTNps/s200/1A%2B-%2BThank%2BYou.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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THANK YOU</div>
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By Anton Antonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
January 26, 2016</div>
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<br /></div>
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After publishing my 666<sup>th</sup> blog yesterday, I came
across some revealing and interesting statistics. Out of 23,490 readers, 33% are from the
Philippines, 25% come from the United States, 6% come from Russia, and 36% from
other parts of the world. The readers
from these three countries (the Philippines, the United States and Russia)
represent a significant portion of my blog readers --- at 64%.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
It is not surprising that Filipinos turned out to be the
majority of the readers since most of the articles refer to the Philippine socio-political
and environmental setting and the human interest stories are mostly about
Filipinos as well. The one-fourth share
of the United States in the total blog readership is also not surprising since
(1) the blog is in the English language and (2) it is influenced by the fact
that there is a substantial number of Filipinos living in the U.S. and most are
even U.S. citizens or permanent residents there. Quite surprising is the number of readers
from Russia. The Russians do not share a
lot of commonalities with Filipinos… history, creed, religion, culture and
tradition. And the Philippines was never
colonized by Russia neither.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The top three most-read blogs are: (1) “Achievements of the
Earth Summit” – published on April 13, 2014; (2) “ Types of Environmental
Resources” – published on January 19, 2015; and, (3) “Laws of Tolerance and
Limiting Factor” – published on February 1, 2015.</div>
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To all my dear readers, especially my fellow Filipinos,
Americans and Russians, who took interest in and continuously read my blogs,
please allow me to appreciate your patronage by saying THANK YOU!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thoughts to
promote positive action…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please
visit, like and share Pro-EARTH Crusaders on Facebook or follow me at <a href="http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/">http://antonantonio.blogspot.com/</a>
and <a href="http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/">http://twitter.com/EarthCrusader/</a>) </div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18066886292229958932noreply@blogger.com0