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This entire planet is our home. We are the only species that systematically destroy our own habitat.
-- Marianne Williamson
-- Marianne Williamson
The Philippines is a land of renowned beauty and natural diversity. It is located in Southeast Asia and is composed of more than 7,100 islands with rich natural resources. It currently has 231 mammalian species, 612 avian species, 301 reptilian species and 116 amphibian species.
Through time, however, due to overpopulation, some of these resources are now being depleted as some were polluted or were overused.
In the Philippines, some of the greatest trial for the environment is water pollution, deforestation, land pollution, air pollution (especially for urban cities) and over-fishing. But for the discussion, we will focus on one of the greatest environmental issues in the Philippines- which is the water pollution. The Philippines is an archipelago. It is a country abundantly endowed with water resources. At 2013, it has 18 major river basins, 717 principle rivers, 79 natural lakes, 10 lakes for aquaculture production and marine waters which cover about 266, 000 sq. km.
“Due to overpopulation and neglect on environmental policy, around 58 % of the Philippine population is now listed to be contaminated” (ADB, 2009). According to ADB (2007& 2009), “the main source of pollution is untreated domestic and industrial wastewater. In the Philippines, only 1/3 of the Philippine river systems are considered suitable for public water supply.” Furthermore, according to World Bank (2005), “since sludge treatment and disposal facilities are rare [in the country], most effluents are discharged without treatment”.
“By 2025, it is estimated that most of the major urban cities and 8 of the 19 major river basins will have marginal water availability.”(ADB, 2007)
Besides severe health concerns, water pollution is said to affect the fishing and tourism services of the country.
As part of the youth, we can do something. There are great opportunities worldwide to help in the water issues around the globe. Water.org is a nonprofit organization, which can be found at the Net that has transformed hundreds of communities in Africa, South Asia, and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation. It works with local partners to deliver innovative solutions for long-term success. Here the youth can donate, start a fundraiser, give monthly or send an E-card. In the Philippines, there are still plenty of ways to help. Aside from the occasional projects at Fb group: Youth for Asia, Environmental conservation seminars and camps may be available as well like in Youth Environmental Opportunities.
Lastly, we as a youth can help in nationwide programs or campaigns that highlight social responsibility. Using of recycled water for washing cars is one example and glass in brushing our teeth and lastly, by keeping our natural waters clean.
Together, as a youth, we can do something to change the world. We may be one, but with others we can make greater impact! Good day!
Through time, however, due to overpopulation, some of these resources are now being depleted as some were polluted or were overused.
In the Philippines, some of the greatest trial for the environment is water pollution, deforestation, land pollution, air pollution (especially for urban cities) and over-fishing. But for the discussion, we will focus on one of the greatest environmental issues in the Philippines- which is the water pollution. The Philippines is an archipelago. It is a country abundantly endowed with water resources. At 2013, it has 18 major river basins, 717 principle rivers, 79 natural lakes, 10 lakes for aquaculture production and marine waters which cover about 266, 000 sq. km.
“Due to overpopulation and neglect on environmental policy, around 58 % of the Philippine population is now listed to be contaminated” (ADB, 2009). According to ADB (2007& 2009), “the main source of pollution is untreated domestic and industrial wastewater. In the Philippines, only 1/3 of the Philippine river systems are considered suitable for public water supply.” Furthermore, according to World Bank (2005), “since sludge treatment and disposal facilities are rare [in the country], most effluents are discharged without treatment”.
“By 2025, it is estimated that most of the major urban cities and 8 of the 19 major river basins will have marginal water availability.”(ADB, 2007)
Besides severe health concerns, water pollution is said to affect the fishing and tourism services of the country.
As part of the youth, we can do something. There are great opportunities worldwide to help in the water issues around the globe. Water.org is a nonprofit organization, which can be found at the Net that has transformed hundreds of communities in Africa, South Asia, and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation. It works with local partners to deliver innovative solutions for long-term success. Here the youth can donate, start a fundraiser, give monthly or send an E-card. In the Philippines, there are still plenty of ways to help. Aside from the occasional projects at Fb group: Youth for Asia, Environmental conservation seminars and camps may be available as well like in Youth Environmental Opportunities.
Lastly, we as a youth can help in nationwide programs or campaigns that highlight social responsibility. Using of recycled water for washing cars is one example and glass in brushing our teeth and lastly, by keeping our natural waters clean.
Together, as a youth, we can do something to change the world. We may be one, but with others we can make greater impact! Good day!
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