Religion, Natural Calamities And Science

By Tirumala Prasad

According to World Bank estimates, Japan will approximately take 5 years to rebuild the devastated areas. The total loss due to the recent (2011, March) earthquake, tsunami, and atomic radiations is estimated to be $250 billion. Around 10,000 people have lost their lives and some thousands of people seem to be missing due to this recent natural calamity. Several valuable human resources have lost their lives seven years (2004) ago in another tsunami and earthquake in the Indian Ocean.

With the dawn of civilization on the earth, the primitive or first man was bearing most of the natural calamities as he could neither predict nor could take any precautions. Thus there have been severe damages; loss of lives, missing of people, etc. ever since the man was born on the earth. With the passage of time, the human civilization on this earth has learnt many lessons doing wonders due to the unlimited wants of human beings and also heavy competition among the countries of the world. For instance, the invention of modern computers, internet, and mobile phones are some of the most and recent remarkable achievements of man!.

But nature seems to be teaching lessons to the countries of the world to 'not to grow beyond certain limits!'. Even Australia is not spared as this nation too has been losing lives and other infrastructure due to the recurrence of floods and cyclones. Ever since the Second World War, the sincere people of Japan have been working hard and thus the industrious people have made the nation the 3rd largest economy of the world. They worked against many odds or drawbacks such as the dangerous location of the country on the 'Ring of fire', and also scarcity of most of the natural resources.

Several theories such as Plate tectonics theory could explain the causes for the occurrence of earthquakes and tsunamis. According to this theory, the planet earth is made up of several major and minor continental plates and oceanic plates. The movement of these plates is responsible for earth quakes. Tsunamis are earthquakes in the oceans. Thus the human civilization has been making several efforts through "research" to unravel the mysteries of the nature.

Satellite imageries, Underground mining activities, Increase in food and cash crops production and productivity, various marvelous industrial goods, services, etc have been possible through man's efforts for several years in the form of 'technology'. But still we are not successful in either preventing or predicting or both the recurrence certain devastating natural calamities such as earthquakes and tsunamis.

Cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, floods, landslides, super cyclones, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, etc are some of the most destructive natural calamities.

MYSTERY:

Science does explain reasons or causes for many natural calamities but one of the main drawbacks with the science is that it has not been helping the civilization in predicting the earthquakes and tsunamis.

Nature is the creation of God. If the natural calamities are the result of God's will, why does he not recognize and reward the hard work of Japanese people?. Is killing many industrious and innocent people through natural calamities a reward? Or a recognition by the nature God and nature mother?.

The scientists of Japan have been doing some miracles in science research, for instance, their contribution to medical science, information technology, biotechnology, etc are noteworthy.

If nature God kills sincere, skillful, efficient, intelligent, and talented people cruelly and relentlessly, the human civilization may question the need to pray to God!

If the deaths due to natural calamities are fate, many enlightened people have been enhancing their life span by various methods such as changing life habits, utilizing the developments in medical science, etc.

AMAZING SCIENCE:

Necessity is the mother of invention. Science and Scientists have been making our lives easy through research and discoveries. Thus science could satisfy most of the human wants, for instance the gap between demand and supply of food crops could easily be satisfied by using chemical fertilizers, pesticides, high yielding varieties of seeds, machinery, etc. Similarly, the natural resources could easily be assessed by using satellite imagery through remote sensing.

Our scientists need to be in a hurry to invent reliable and innovative methods to predict the devastating natural calamities. If they do, nations such as Japan need not lose most valuable human resources, wealth, etc repeatedly. In other words, the nations of the world can prosper without worrying much about disastrous natural calamities.

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What Does Not Change?

By Mahesh C Jain

It is generally known that this is an ever-changing universe. Each and every thing we see and all the events we observe are in a state of constant flux. Even the simplest of stable particles, i.e. Photon has oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Even in the transcendental or meta-physical Zero, inherent instability or oscillations have to be postulated to explain origin of nature and universe.

So even things and events that appear to be constant and stable, are often in a state of constant flux. In 'Zero' oscillations are essential to explain origin of particles and antiparticles constituting material universe and black holes respectively, from null. In Photons oscillating electric and magnetic fields are essential to resolve existential dilemma paused by Laws of Energy Flow (Generally known as Laws of Thermodynamics). Magnetic energy being non-conducting is a relief from energy flow and therefore conversion of electric energy into magnetic energy prevents its dissipation by conduction or energy flow. Therefore it is true that even to keep existence anything has to constantly change.

Atoms and molecules are in a state of constant oscillation in accordance with their energy content. Gas molecules are perpetually in Brownian motion. All the celestial bodies are constantly moving in their elliptical orbits and spinning around their axis. All this is essential, to keep existence.

So there arises a question that in this ever-changing universe is there anything that is constant and if so than what is it?

The answer to this question is 'yes' because there are many things even the nature can't afford to change if nature and universe were to keep their being, identity, integrity and progressive evolution. This is also essential if scientific knowledge has to remain meaningful. Some of such things are as under:-

1. Natural Laws do not change from time to time and from one place to another. Natural laws are constraints with in which nature has to exist and function and so natural law are the basis of natural order and hence, natural laws discipline 'change'. To effectively discharge their functions natural laws can't vary with time and place. Ever changing natural laws are bound to lead to disorder or chaos as a result of different material entities changing differently in uncoordinated manner thus precipitating chaos.

Constancy of natural laws is the basis of uniformitarian thought widely prevalent even in the contemporary society. Charles Lyell, the pre-eminent exponent of uniformitarianism, in the early 19th century published first volume of his great work Principles of Geology Being an Attempt to Explain the Former Changes of the Earth's Surface by Reference to Causes now in Operation. His work convinced most of the contemporary scientists about validity of Uniformitarian thought.

Constancy of natural laws is a founding principle for science because in a universe endowed with ever-changing natural laws, scientific predictions of past, present and future are bound to go haywire leading to demise of science. If particular Photons are not stable, which to astronomers are predictors of conditions prevalent at the time of origin of universe, than they can no longer be treated as representatives of conditions of their origin.

'Zero' remains a 'Zero' despite being in a state of flux and a Photon that presumably originated at the point of origin of universe, preserves its characteristic energy content, frequency and wave length over a period of billions of years until it is absorbed. Therefore scientific theories which advocate chaos preceding origin of universe and order after the Big Bang call for hysterical dissociation of beliefs. Therefore Big Bang Theory even if justifiable from one particular stand point, needs to explain as to how chaos can ever lead to order without external intervention of mythic proportions? The same is true of other natural laws.

Even in Biological domain life originating in accordance with RNA world hypothesis and then transforming to DNA based life forms is a highly improbable event.

Therefore, it is essential that to explain cosmic phenomena comprehensively, constancy of natural laws should be kept in mind. One should desist from entering into a universe that does not follow its own rules. This also implies that natural laws that led to origin and evolution of nature and universe must be as effective today as in the past. So universe must still be growing and evolving.

What can really change about natural laws is human understanding of natural laws. It may be imprecisely defined today and precisely defined later on with improved understanding.

2. Nature of Things does not change in their basal state or state of rest. However, observed nature of things is subject to conditions of their existence and can vary non-linearly from one set of conditions to another. Therefore properties of matter and various forms of energy can't vary across cosmos.

This is essential for the purpose of behavioral uniformity and consistency and permits science to predict things and events in past, present or future.

3. Human nature about emotions, relationships, intellect and biological needs does not change with changing times. Changing times may lead to cultural change redefining ways and means people use to meet their ends but this does not change innate human nature or the ends.

Therefore cultural change brought about by technical advances, economic advances, changing trends in fashion etc. do not alter innate human behavior and fundamental needs. Only means change but not goals and objectives. However this is subject to one exception, i.e. behavioral change brought about by mental training, education and experience.

Therefore generation gap is in reality generation conflict brought about by differences in needs and perceptions of different age groups. Older generation often trying to protect younger generation from mistakes they have committed, on the basis of their hard-earned experience whereas younger generation is interested in learning from their own experience and experimentation.

In my opinion, the best course of action for older generation in a conflict situation is to allow younger generation to learn by self experience and bear with them until then. This may be a better way of keeping relationships intact.

Author: Dr Mahesh C. Jain is a practicing medical doctor and has written the book "Encounter of Science with Philosophy - A synthetic view". The book begins with first chapter devoted to scientifically valid concept of God and then explains cosmic phenomena right from origin of nature and universe up to origin of life and evolution of man. The book includes several chapters devoted to auxiliary concepts and social sciences as corollaries to the concept of God. This is the only book which deals with origin of nature and universe from null. Sixteenth chapter of the book deals with the subject matter of 'Change'.
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Furniture and Environment: Environmentally Friendly Furniture

By Peter Nisbet

Furniture and environment are not usually two words that hang well together, and environmentally friendly furniture is regarded by many as an oxymoron. It takes a very great deal of time to grow trees, and the reason for the destruction of the rain forests is the massive market for wood, particularly by the construction and furniture industries.

However, some manufacturers have found ways to reduce their furniture carbon footprint, and Simply Amish is one of these. Simply Amish have found a way to manufacture environmentally friendly furniture without passing on any massive costs to customers. It doesn't have to be expensive to be environmentally friendly, and the USA has had bad press in recent years for its failure to control carbon emissions.

However, it is not only controlling emissions that is important - in fact controlling the need for such emissions is equally important, if not more so. There is also more to furniture and environment than just global warming, climate change and emissions! Here is how one American furniture manufacturer does its best to help reduce America's carbon footprint in this world of ours.

Continuation of Wood Sources

Simply Amish, the Illinois-based traditional furniture manufacturer, appreciates the fact that the trees suitable for furniture take a very long time to grow. Once you cut one down, it could take 20-30 years or longer for another to grow to take its place. That's why this company has taken the decision to help maintain sustainable forests: these are forests that are replanted as trees are cut, and the new trees should ideally reach maturity when the last of the originals have been harvested.

Simply Amish ensure that their hardwood suppliers employ the best possible practices in maintaining the viability of their timber sources. They ensure as far as they can that forestry is environmentally, economically and socially responsible, and that replanting policies ensure as far as possible that our children will also have viable wood for their own furniture.

Furniture and Environment: Grown and Made in America

This is connecting furniture and environment at source, and how Simply Amish claim to use environmentally friendly furniture manufacturing practices. In order to keep a handle on this, all their hardwood is located within a 500 mile radius of their craftsmen, many of whom work from home rather than in a furniture factory.

This has the added benefit of saving on the shipping costs and fuel used, leaving a carbon footprint considerably less than that of most other furniture firms - particularly those that use imported wood such as using African walnut rather than American walnut!

Your American furniture might be labeled 'Made in America' but is it grown in America? Do all the raw materials originate in the USA? As Simple Amish say 'made here, loved everywhere' and this company's furniture is not only made here but it is grown here! Solid wood furniture and the environment are intimately connected!

The Meaning of Environmentally Friendly Furniture

According to Simply Amish, 70% of the firm's furniture is hand-made by Amish people living no more than 20 miles from the firm's main distribution center. The majority of the other 30% live within 200 miles, and pick-ups from these are scheduled to coincide with deliveries made to dealers in the same area so that fuel usage and emissions are reduced to a minimum. That's what you call environmentally friendly furniture!

In fact, the Amish are one of the most environmentally friendly communities in the USA. They can their own food that is grown in their own gardens, jar their own pickles, and many still travel by horse and buggy. Their furniture is hand-made, thus reducing power usage. By drying their laundry on a washing line, the Amish genuinely contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.

It doesn't end there though! Simply Amish do not use cardboard boxes, corrugated board, polythene bubble wrap or polystyrene chips as packaging. They ship their furniture wrapped in blankets! Furniture and environment: this company does its best to make them blend. No foam to pollute the earth for thousands of years, and savings in energy and carbon emissions in its manufacture.

Avoiding Waste Contributes to a Healthier Planet

Nor is any wood wasted. Amish communities share their spare wood - the small pieces are used for kid's toys, the chips are used to heat homes and workshops and the sawdust is given to farmers for animal bedding. Nothing is wasted - if you take from nature, waste nothing!

Native Americans used every single part of the buffalo in honor of its life. Simply Amish use all of the timber they cut down to make their environmentally friendly furniture and contribute to a healthier planet. There is a lot more, such as geothermal heating, top of the range thermal insulation in the workshops - this is furniture and environment coming together in a friendly way. If you are looking for environmentally friendly furniture, check out Simply Amish.

More information on environmentally friendly furniture is available from Patterson Furniture. You will also find how furniture and environment can be connected to offer American furniture of extremely high quality at low prices.

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The End of the World - 2012 and Natural Disasters

By George S Davis

Is Anyone There?

If you are reading this then you can be fairly certain that the world did not end in 2011. But the doom mongers amongst you should not despair. Evidently the Mayan calendar does not extend beyond 2012 and therefore we are all assured earthly destruction sometime in the not too distant future.

Natural Disasters: The Economic Cost

Seriously though, 2011 has been an extremely bad year for natural disasters. In fact, 2011 has probably been the most costly ever. Current estimates stand at about a third of a trillion US dollars. Of this, the Japanese earthquake and the resulting tsunami accounts for $210 billion. And this doesn't take into account the effects of the follow on nuclear accident.

My adopted country of New Zealand has had its fair share of natural disasters in 2011. Christchurch, on the south island, has been wracked by several destructive earthquakes and as I write is still suffering from a series of disturbingly regular and unnerving aftershocks. The estimated cost is around $US16 billion. This may seem small potatoes in comparison to the Japanese experience, but this cost is being borne by a nation of just over 4 million. The experts are quick to point out that earthquakes are not on the increase and that the recent clutch represents a 1 in a 1000 year event; from this the victims of the quakes can take great comfort. The same cannot be said for the other category of natural disasters which are dependent on the vagaries of weather. Events such as cyclones and other weather extremes are on the increase. At least some of the meteorological natural disasters can be blamed on man's impact on the environment and global warming. Severe storms, tornados and Hurricane Irene caused $30 billion in damage in the USA alone. Consequently it has not been a happy year for insurance companies and insurance premiums are expected to rise by at least 5% in the US. Beleaguered shop keepers in Christchurch are becoming uninsurable and the lucky ones able to maintain policies are experiencing exorbitant rises in excess payment liability. Sadly, most of the loss, especially in developing nations, was uninsured.

Natural Disasters: The Human Toll

The hard economic facts do not account for the human misery; most of it remains unaccountable and quite frankly beyond human understanding. As one twentieth century despot so elegantly and brutally phrased it:"a single death is a personal tragedy, a million deaths is a statistic". Incredibly, in spite of the huge economic toil, human deaths caused by natural disasters in 2011 remained relatively low at 27,000. To place these figures in some perspective: the fatalities attributed to natural disasters in 2010 were estimated at a staggering 296,000.

Natural Disasters and 2012

I, like the vast majority of people on earth, will not be marking the passing days this year with any especial trepidation, well no more than usual. If I were a betting man I would be willing to place all that I own on the prospect that human kind will be still around to herald in 2013. What I can predict however, is another year of wild weather with mounting human and economic costs; only time will tell.

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Challenges of Climate Change and Bio-Energy

By Noor Ali Noorani

"Our generation has inherited an incredibly beautiful world from our parents and they from their parents. It is in our hands whether our children and their children inherit the same world" - Richard Branson.

Scientific and technological advancements have revolutionized the entire human civilization in a truest sense. It has brought us to a point where we can assume that everything we imagine and conceive is practically achievable. Nowadays, when our lives are surrounded by so much of digitalization and hi-tech machinery, when the rapidness of development and research is so impressive, it is fairly easy to forget the inescapable fact that we are damaging our mother world at an unprecedented pace. So often in course to satisfy our hunger of attaining economic supremacy and industrial feasibility, we fail to realize that we are actually deteriorating our natural resources. We, along with all our advancements are disturbing the ecological and environmental balance at such a frantic pace that the entire human history has never witnessed before. And while doing this, we have provoked the nature's need for revenge. We have made ourselves more vulnerable to stern temperatures, floods, hurricanes, typhoons, droughts, excessive rainfall, and now it is a critical time to understand that if we continue to exploit nature and affect climatic balance and do nothing to alleviate this issue, we are bound to face devastating consequences.

Climate changes pose clear, catastrophic threats. We may not agree on the extent, but we certainly can't afford the risk of inaction. To better understand the issue, we must first study what are climate changes and which factors are responsible for them. The term climate change is often used interchangeably with the term global warming, but according to the National Academy of Sciences, "The phrase 'climate change' is growing in preferred use to 'global warming' because it helps convey that there are [other] changes in addition to rising temperatures." Climate change refers to any significant change in measures of climate (such as temperature, precipitation, or wind) lasting for an extended period (decades or longer). Global warming is an average increase in the temperature of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface and in the troposphere, which can contribute to changes in global climate patterns.

Earth maintains its average temperature by a natural and self-automated warming system of gases which surround it. Carbon dioxide and other gases like methane, Nitrogen dioxide and Chloro Flouro Carbon (CFC) keep the earth warm by trapping solar heat in the atmosphere. This trapped heat is crucial in keeping earth's temperature within a range where it is habitable. However, the uncontrollable increase in the emission of Carbon dioxide and other warming gases over the decades has thickened these atmospheric boundaries which are now retaining much more heat than the acceptable range. Further, the increase of carbon dioxide and other gases in the atmosphere has also enhanced the "Greenhouse Effect" in which more heat is generated. This excessive amount of heat has disarrayed earth's natural thermo-equilibrium resulting in the form of global warming with all its associated climatic effects.

The history of the planet has been characterised by frequent changes in climate. Apparently, climate change is a natural phenomena occurring since several thousand years. Environmental scientists insist that earth's temperature has always been on a gradual rise with no or very limited impact on the environment on whole. This gradual trend spanning over a period of 650,000 years shows a gradual rise which scientists initially thought of as a "slow motion catastrophe" a unexpected to show its earliest consequences generations later. Needless to say, time has proved this estimations erroneous since signs of the climatic changes due to increased earth temperature have accelerated alarmingly in last two centuries. The graphical relation between time and earth's temperature proves a dramatic and unparalleled shift in the trend with temperatures increasing many times faster than ever in the recorded history. Based on data from the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, it is estimated that the mean global surface temperature has increased by about 0.3 to 0.6 degree Celsius since the late 19th century to the present, and an increase of 0.2 to 0.3 degree over the last 40 years. This increase is likely to have been the largest of any century during the past 1,000 years. The current rate of increase of greenhouse gases is unprecedented during at least the past 20,000 years. And with the help climatic models based on mathematical simulations, it is predicted that by the year 2050, global temperature would be rose around 5 degrees Celsius with some severe and unavoidable impacts.

There are a number of natural factors responsible for climate change. Some of the prominent ones are continental drift, volcanoes, ocean currents, the earth's tilt, and comets and meteorites. But the Anthropogenic Factors are the real culprits which have induced such an uncontrollable emission of carbon dioxide and other gases and therefore elevated average temperatures. Anthropogenic factors are human activities that change the environment and influence climate. In some cases, however, the chain of causality is clear and unambiguous while in others it is less clear. Various assumptions for human-influenced climate change have been debated over the years but it is only now widely accepted without any doubt that the major cause of climate change are the human activities. Even those who up to a few years ago were not convinced that humans have an impact on the climate, now admit that scientific evidence exists that this is happening.

The Industrial Revolution, starting at the end of the 19th Century, has had a huge effect on climate. The invention of the motor engine and the increased burning of fossil fuels in form of coal, oil and natural gas have increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Since then, the human consumption of fossil fuels has elevated CO2 levels from a concentration of ~280 ppm to ~387 ppm today. These increasing concentrations are projected to reach a range of 535 to 983 ppm by the end of the 21st century. It is now known that carbon dioxide levels are substantially higher now than at any time in the last 750,000 years. With the prevailing concept of global economy and the accelerated industrialization of developing countries like India and China, 70 million tons of CO2 is dumped into atmosphere everyday. In addition of CO2, Methane is another important greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. About ¼ of all methane emissions are said to come from domesticated animals such as dairy cows, goats, pigs, buffaloes, camels, horses, and sheep. These animals produce methane during the cud-chewing process. Methane is also released from rice or paddy fields that are flooded during the sowing and maturing periods. When soil is covered with water it becomes anaerobic or lacking in oxygen. Under such conditions, methane-producing bacteria and other organisms decompose organic matter in the soil to form methane. Nearly 90% of the paddy-growing area in the world is found in Asia, as rice is the staple food there. China and India, between them, have 80-90% of the world's rice-growing areas. Methane is also emitted from landfills and other waste dumps. If the waste is put into an incineratorchanges triggered by such gases are anticipated to cause an increase of 1.4-5.6 °C between 1990 and 2100. The cement manufacturing industry in particular, contributes CO2 when calcium carbonate is heated, producing lime and carbon dioxide, and also as a result of burning fossil fuels. The cement industry produces 5% of global man-made CO2 emissions, of which 50% is from the chemical process, and 40% from burning fuel. The amount of CO2 emitted by the cement industry is nearly 900 kg of CO2 for every 1000 kg of cement produced. [out] or burnt in the open, carbon dioxide is emitted. Methane is also emitted during the process of oil drilling, coal mining and also from leaking gas pipelines (due to accidents and poor maintenance of sites). A large amount of nitrous oxide emission has been attributed to fertilizer application. Another gas, nitrous oxide, emitted in a very large from fertilizers can cause serious damages. These climate

One of the other major factors of climate change is Increased Land Use. Agriculture practices, irrigation and deforestation are fundamentally changing the environment. Due to increased urbanization and industrial growth, forests are being cut down which act as

"Carbon sinks". As a result,that the extra carbon dioxide produced cannot be changed into oxygen. A 2007 Jet Propulsion Laboratory study found that the average temperature of California has risen about 2 degrees over the past 50 years, with a much higher increase in urban areas. The change was attributed mostly to extensive human development of the landscape.

Accepting the factors that are causing it, an overwhelming majority of scientists today agree that climate change is real and poses very serious global threats. These climate changes have already shown some shocking and horrific signs around the world. They are by now affecting lives of millions of people throughout the world and are expected to get far more ruthless in future. In particular, many developing countries though they have contributed to the least in the process of climate change will be the ones at the greatest risks to face the consequences. As it was mentioned at the annual meeting of the Interagency Support Group on Indigenous Issues (IASG) in Montreal in September 2007, "that indigenous people are often among the world's most marginalized and impoverished peoples and will bear the brunt of the catastrophe of climate change and as such provide a human face to the climate change crises".

In Asia, temperatures are expected to rise 2-8 degrees Celsius in next 8-10 years affecting the lives of the inhabitants with climatic variations like decreased rainfall, crop failures and more floods. Tropical forests, which are haven for biodiversity, as well as native people's cultural diversity, are under serious danger of forest fires. People in low-lying areas of Bangladesh and India like Calcutta, could be displaced by a one-meter rise in sea levels. Such a rise could also threaten the coastal zones of Japan and China. This could mean massive dislocation of not just hundreds and thousands but more than one hundred million people from Asia alone. The recent examples of heavy rains in parts on India particularly Mumbai is inherently connected with rapid climate change. In the Himalayans, there are glacial melts which affect hundreds of millions of rural dwellers who depend on the seasonal flow of water. Increased temperature will melt ice faster following more water in the short term, but less in the long run as glaciers and snow cover shrink. The warming of the high altitude regions are likely to mean that population growth, settlement expansion and encroachment are likely to become a major management challenge and these external influences are likely to have an impact on indigenous peoples and their lands. In Southern Africa, climate change will affect hundreds of kilometers of land which is covered with vegetation and is used for grazing. Since high temperatures will increase wind speed multiple times, these high speed winds will result in region losing most of its vegetation cover and hence, becoming less feasible for indigenous peoples living in the region. Moreover, droughts will be more common with food security as a major issue for indigenous peoples residing in the deserts like Kalahari and Sahara. In Europe and parts of Russia, indigenous peoples have noticed the arrival of new species of plants which were never seen in the region previously. The hotter summers have provided the conditions for the new plants to thrive in rivers and lakes. This had disturbed the natural habitat of fishes; hence, people's fishing opportunities have declined due to closure of lakes because of the new plant growth. Also, new bird species have arrived and birds now stay longer in the villages than previously.

In North America, heat waves will increase evaporation and deplete the underground water resources. There may be impacts on health, plant cover, wildlife populations, tribal water rights and individual agricultural operations, and a reduction of tribal services due to decrease in income from land leases. Further, natural disasters like hurricanes, floods in likes of Katrina which caused lives of around 1,836 people and cost damages of $89.6 billion, will be more common.

The Polar Regions that is the Artic and Greenland is experiencing some the most rapid and severe climate changes on earth. With rise in the temperature, the Artic ice is becoming less stable, unusual weather patterns are occurring, vegetation cover is changing and particular animals like polar bears and seals are on a verge of extinction. Local landscapes, seascapes and icescapes are becoming unfamiliar, making peoples feel like strangers in their own land. In addition to this, weather in the Artic will become unpredictable and extreme with timing, length and character of the seasons including rain in autumn and winter and more heat in summer. In several indigenous villages in Alaska, entire communities will have to be relocated because of erosion due to the thawing of permafrost and large waves slamming against the west and northern shores.

Coastal indigenous communities will be severely threatened by storm related erosion because of melting sea ice. Scientists have predicted that if only the half of ice in Artic and Greenland melt, the ocean level around the world will rise up to 40 feet surging over huge land a portion that is the home of billions of human beings and other living creatures.

No matter how discouraging the future seems right now, all is not gloom and doom. Al Gore, the Nobel Prize winner for his efforts for the cause of climate change, said in his speech at National Sierra Club Convention, on Sept. 9, 2005 "The good news is we know what to do. The good news is we have everything we need now to respond to the challenge of global warming. We have all the technologies we need, more are being developed, and as they become available and become more affordable when produced in scale, they will make it easier to respond. But we should not wait, we cannot wait, we must not wait."

Since the appearance of first few challenges of the climate change, countries all around the world have decided to initiate programs as one global community to combat this fast approaching menace. The First World Climate Conference recognized climate change as a serious problem in 1979. Since then, a number of conferences and conventions have been held throughout the world with formation of several international bodies and treaties. In 1988, a body of more than 2,500 of the world's leading climate scientists, economists, and risk analysis experts from 80 countries was formed as The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This Panel was given a mandate to assess the state of existing knowledge about the climate system and climate change; the environmental, economic, and social impacts of climate change; and the possible response strategies. The reports which this body released had a powerful impact on both policy-makers and the general public and provided the basis for negotiations on the Climate Change Convention. In 1992, The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) was signed at Rio de Janeiro by 154 states, including the US. This summit became the largest-ever gathering of Heads of State.

In December 1997, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change adopted a code of behavior by consensus which contains new emissions targets for developed countries for the post-2000 period. This international treaty is called as "The Kyoto Protocol" or "The Kyoto Treaty". Since developed countries of the world are responsible for 83.7% of the total emissions, the protocol asked the developed countries to commit themselves in reducing their collective emissions of six key greenhouse gases by at least 5%. Though an important milestone, the Kyoto agreement has not really been such effective since it aims to cut down the future carbon emissions but does not propose any solutions to nullify the affects of the carbon that has already been emitted into the atmosphere. Other global initiatives like UNESCO's Programme on Man and the Biosphere (MAB), Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), WHO Program for Climate and many others are working to tackle the issue of climate change.

The goal of all these organizations and conventions is to cut down or at least minimize all those factors responsible for climate change. Resolute, urgent and collective efforts are needed on state, communal and individual levels to deal with the issue. One of the most effective ways to do so is to Increase the Awareness and Usage of the Bio-Energy. Bio-Energy is the energy made available from materials derived from the biological sources. It is actually the energy produced from the bio-mass. Biomass is the material derived from living organisms, which includes plants, animals and their byproducts such as wood. Manure, garden waste and crop residues are all sources of biomass. It is a renewable energy source based on the carbon cycle, unlike other natural resources such as petroleum, coal, and nuclear fuels. As Henry Ford said in early 20th century "The fuel of the future is going to come from fruit ... weeds, sawdust-almost anything..."

Burning biomass efficiently results in little or no net emission of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, since the bio-energy crop plants actually took up an equal amount of carbon dioxide from the air when they grew. However, burning conventional fossil fuels such as gasoline, oil, coal or natural gas results in an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the major gas which is thought to be responsible for global climate change. Some nitrogen oxides inevitably result from biomass burning (as with all combustion processes) but these are comparable to emissions from natural wildfires, and generally lower than those from burning fossil fuels. Other gas emissions are associated with the use of fossil fuels by farm equipment, and with the application of inorganic fertilizers to the bio-energy crop. However, these may be offset by the increase in carbon storage in soil organic matter compared with conventional crops. Utilization of biomass residues which would have otherwise been dumped in landfills (e.g. urban and industrial residues) greatly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by preventing the formation of methane.

In addition, bio-energy can effectively be used in almost every industrial, manufacturing and home application throughout the globe. Wood, construction waste, landfill gas, and liquid bio-fuels like bio-diesel and bio-oil can be used to produce energy that can be converted into electricity and heat. Liquid bio-fuels like ethanol, bio-diesel, and bio-oil can be used to power cars and other transportation. Being the fourth largest resource of energy after coal, oil and natural gas, the energy produced from the bio-mass can fulfill up to 14% of the world's total primary energy demands and recent statistics show that only 10-15% of the total potential bio-energy sources have been used so far by the human population worldwide.

Along with its remarkable and efficient outcomes in decreasing the world's carbon emission and fulfilling a considerable portion of the global demand for energy, Bio-Energy from the bio-mass also has several major socio-economical benefits. These benefits include increased rural income and reduced levels of poverty in developing countries, restoration of unproductive and degraded lands and promotion of economic development, diversifications of agricultural outputs, reduction of energy dependence and diversification of domestic energy supply, increased investments in land rehabilitation and effective usage of waste products. A recent economic survey found out that bio-energy creates more permanent jobs than any other energy sources with decrease in unemployment and increase in per capita income which contributes to a much healthy life style. It can also be instrumental in reducing food prices and ensuring food security throughout the world.

In keeping an eye over the huge opportunities the usage of bio-energy can offer, every possible step should be taken by the United Nations and the state governments all over the world to replace fossil fuels with bio-fuels. Since it is practically unrealistic to completely replace fossil fuels, intense attempt should be made to utilize as much of the natural energy resources as it is possible. On individual level too, we should adapt to these climatic changes and change our live styles in order to bring the total carbon emission under control. Driving less, driving a fuel-efficient car, preferring gas over oil, saving electricity, using lesser papers and planting more trees can be some of the small choices each human can makes to save the earth from rapid destructions of the climate change. It is not only an environmental issue. It is inherently linked with our lives on political, social, economical, ethical and more than anything else, on moral grounds. We do not lack in resources and capabilities but it is a high time that we confront the challenges of the climate change with utmost determination and a collective strategy.

As According to this year's UNDP Report on Human Development "There is a window of opportunity of avoiding the most damaging climate change impacts, but that window is closing: the world has less than a decade to change course. Actions taken or not taken in the years ahead will have a profound bearing on the future course of human development. The world lacks neither the financial resources nor the technological capabilities to act. What is missing is a sense of urgency, collective interest and above all human solidarity".

Noor Ali Noorani

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New Air Conditioning and Air Cleaning - Protecting the Environment and Saving Energy

By Amy Nutt

With the serious problems affecting our environment today, many people are wondering how they can control the temperature of their indoor environments without continuing to deplete the natural environment. Air conditioners have long been a source of environmental pollution with the prolonged use of damaging artificial refrigerants that wreak havoc on our delicate atmosphere. Now that 'green' building has become so popular, the heating and cooling industry has begun to offer an array of widely available, environmentally friendly air conditioners for both residential and commercial use. By replacing the old-fashioned cooling systems of yesterday with the innovative air conditioning and air cleaning systems of today, we can substantially reduce the amount of damage done by our desire for indoor climate control.

Air conditioning products cool the indoor environment to a comfortable temperature in hot weather, providing an enjoyable and temperate climate in which to function. Appliance efficiency is one of the biggest factors to consider today, and the total efficiency of an air conditioning unit is indicated by the SEER rating, which indicates the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rating is mandated by the government, can range between 10 and 17, and the higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner. Many well known and respected heating and cooling companies offer high-efficiency air conditioning models for the public consumer. Choose a manufacturer that you trust and check out the range of SEER ratings on their available air conditioning units.

The type of cooling system that air conditioning units use depends on the climate. For instance, in the Midwest where it is typically humid and warm in the summer, forced air AC units are used, but in the Southwest, where the climate is dry and hot, evaporative units are used, which are generally environmentally friendly by their very nature, using a very natural technology by cooling and evaporating plain water into the air. This method is very effective in such an environment.

While a highly efficient air conditioner may mean more cost up front, a consumer will save even more in the long term with reduced monthly energy costs. In addition to air conditioners with a high SEER rating that are still powered by the local electric company, there are other alternatives, such as solar powered air conditioners and even newer technologies are still in the works and being developed and tested everyday using a wide array of environmentally friendly, natural and non toxic materials.

Another way to keep the immediate environment friendly is through the use of air cleaners and purifiers, which remove toxic gases, allergens and harmful molds and bacteria from the air by implementing powerful filters and air exchange systems to reduce negative effects on the body and the surrounding physical environment. Many of these air cleaners incorporate natural materials, such as organic cotton filters, into their construction while eliminating harmful dyes and chemicals. There are some very unconventional, highly efficient and completely environmentally friendly air cleaners and purifiers available today, some that even require no conventional electricity to work!

The wide availability of environmentally friendly air conditioning and air cleaning products today is truly astounding and is expanding all the time. Information on the many different and earth friendly products available can be found everywhere, and soon, the damaging technology of early climate control units will be a thing of the past.

Duct Cleaning Toronto Company servicing residential, commercial and industrial customers. Offering Robotic Duct Cleaning Visit one of our locations at: Duct Cleaning North York, Scarborough.

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Important Facts On The Current Shape of Our Environment

By Craig Morganson

All this current information in regards to the environment and that which we, as human beings, do to harm our planet is upsetting. One can only discount it for so long you know? The reality of the matter is that we have to be more answerable for our carbon footprint and we should recycle and we really do need to pull our heads out from the sand and help out. It starts with a single person. But if you consider the sheer level of waste when it comes to plastic containers, aluminum cans and plastic grocery bags just one particular household can make over the course of a year, then you can quickly find out how a single person really can make a difference in saving and protecting our environment.

There are simple and totally practical techniques each and every household can take that can create a vital difference in sustaining natural resources and keeping the landfills from overflowing with non biodegradable items.

Creating a household recycling center is an effective technique to sort out and streamline your recyclables. Should you have curbside recycling, as 50% of the U.S. population does, you could have bins presented from your trash service for breaking up paper from plastic and plastic from glass and glass from aluminum. Or, you know, some combo like that. In reality though, the real break up concerning recycling says that paper products go into one bin and containers (plastic, aluminum, glass) go into a different bin. Some lucky localities like Los Angeles have a 1 bin recycling, making it uncomplicated on locals there.

It may be useful to take a peek around your house and do an analysis. Do you drink a great deal of water in bottles? Those plastic containers are an environment killer. Look into instead adding a purification device on your own faucet - they can be very cost-effective. Another solution to all those plastic water bottles is often a regular monthly water service. Those large 10 gallon water containers are gathered, cleaned out and put back into use, making it a really Earth friendly service.

It all starts with you. Sure, it may seem sort of cheesy however it is true. If every one of us makes a moderate attempt to reduce, reuse and recycle - it could actually have an astounding effect on our environment. Generations that preceded us had no idea what effect technological advancements could have on our environment. It is up to us to save our world and its natural resources for our children and grandchildren. We have the information plus the remarkable breakthroughs in technology to find out how to fix what is wrong with our environment. So isn't it the wise thing to do for you to do your role?

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Green Environment

By Adam Bercier

Working towards a greener environment



Protecting the environment is not something that can be taken lightly in the times we live. Mankind, in its constant zeal to live an improved and a better life has been unfairly neglecting the environment over centuries now. Now we are experiencing the impact of the unsustainable growth and development. Increased occurrences of natural disasters like tsunamis, earthquakes and ever changing weather patterns across the world cannot be mere coincidences. They are radical cues that we need to pay attention to Mother Nature and work towards a greener environment.



We have only one planet and we need to preserve it for our future generations. We need to develop and find means to have a sustainable growth; something that doesn’t come at the cost of environment. Every small effort counts and what is needed essentially is a shift in our pattern of thinking and way of life. Gone are the days when we could indiscriminately plunder the resources that earth has bestowed upon us. These are the times of conservation and symbiotic living.



The means for such a living are what we need to look forward to and develop. What we simply need is a ‘replacement therapy’ for us. Let us work to replace our ideas, resources, products and our way of living. Let us look forward to ideas that promote a greener way of life. Let us adopt products that are environment friendly and take help in its sustenance. Let us develop new technology that improves and conserves what we have exploited till now. Every small step matters and gives new hope. Right from using paper bags instead of plastic bags to driving hybrids and fuel efficient vehicles – each step counts.



This can only materialize if we have a collaborative approach to things. Working towards a greener environment is not only a prerogative of government and large organizations but also individuals. Governments and organizations can contribute by adopting policies and laws that are conducive to conservation efforts. Governments across the world are realizing the importance of caring for environment and are forming regulations and procedures that encourage a sustainable growth of industries keeping a check on how the environment is affected by this growth.



Large organizations along with governments enact these proposals and become providers and patrons of new technologies that help in creating a better world. Various researches are thriving across the universities in the world to find cleaner solutions that pave way for future without taking much from Mother Nature. What would matter now will be adoption of these solutions. If we can find means to promote these environment friendly technologies, half the battle would be won. We need to find ways to mass produce these good alternate solutions and make them affordable and easily accessible for the masses to make this initiative really successful. Starting with your own home is a green way to contribute to making this earth green once again. You can easily start to build solar panels and wind turbines to create green energy.



About the Author: To learn more visit http://www.howtobuildsolarpanelinfo.com and see what you can do to be green



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The Effects of Overpopulation on Our Environment

By Cesar Gealogo

The rapid growth of our population now enters in the portal of social problem. It is now becoming as one of the predicaments that endangered our environment. If this dilemma cannot be given due attention then there is really a great probability that human existence and the natural surroundings will be devastated. While there is still time to prevent this things from occurrence, a more lasting solution shall be in placed today so that the possible damage into the ecosystem can be easily averted.

Our environment is one of the priceless gems that have been bestowed by Almighty Father upon human. With this, people are given the responsibility to protect and take good care of our natural world. It is the irrevocable duty of human to maintain the balance of the environment. What God has given to the people must be preserve at once and it should not be put unattended. The environment helps us in our quest for survival and in return we also have to protect the natural glow of the environment for us to survive.

Since people's growth is still continuing to swell, the increase of the demands will surely doubled. The rampant illegal fishing that occurs in our oceans is evident that we are gradually decreasing the supply of marine life. The everyday destruction made by human on the marine life sanctuary is very much alarming. The illegal cuttings of trees were also visible in whatever part of the world and it adds more devastation to our environs. The extensive operations of mining industries in the different countries have contributed a lot in the degradation of our beloved environment. All things that happened in our surroundings is attributed to overpopulation and to no concern of the people.

The healthy environment is our life and it is our obligation to nourish the earth and maintain its balance. When a disaster happens in our surrounding it will surely affects the lives of human being. Overpopulation really threatens the natural environment to exist longer. If we can't control the growth of human beings then it is possible that we can't also protect our environment from any devastation made by our own race.

The effects of overpopulation on the environment are really dangerous and destructive. The frequent occurrence of the natural phenomena like earthquake, typhoons, floods, volcanic eruptions are just a few of the many signs of how we gradually destroy our beloved earth.

Let us help each other control the growth of the people in a more sound and moral way and bring preserve the natural beauty of our ecosystem. Let us live with a meaningful and nourish life in a healthier environment.

Cesar E. Gealogo, RC, Police Officer 3, Published Author

Website: http://www.cesargealogo.com/

He is a poet and a registered criminologist of the Professional Regulation Commission of the Philippines. He is the author of a poetry book entitled: Whisper of Life. He is a member of the Professional Criminologist Association of the Philippines (PCAP). He earned two baccalaureate degrees: Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and Bachelor of Science in Criminology. He has also earned 36 academic units in Master of Public Administration. To learn more about his interest, please feel free to visit his personal website.

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Easy Steps To Protect The Environment While Driving

By J. L. Mintun

Many of us want to help the environment. We care about global warming. But we also need transportation. Especially for those of us that live in large cities not well equipped with public transportation, or those who live in out-of-the-way areas tens of miles away from civilization - without a vehicle to get around in, we can't get around at all!



I know personally that I get aggravated at the seeming lack of options out there for truly improving the environment while handling my transportation needs. Here, in Los Angeles, public transportation is mediocre at best. And the hybrid cars pushed at us from car companies are often discovered to do little in helping the environment.



So I took the liberty to discover ways I could help the environment driving the car I already own. And I also investigated some alternative fuels.



Tips for Driving Your Existing Vehicle in Environmentally Friendly Ways



A. Put the road rage aside and get comfortable with cruising! Just smile at every tree you pass and remember to drive at a controlled, steady pace. Don't immediately speed up to the speed limit just to hit your breaks at the next stop light. And try to shift into the next gear as soon as possible, instead of letting the RPGs get too high.



Why does this help? Because sudden acceleration and braking burns far more fuel. More fuel being burned means greater emissions. Also, the best speed for fuel economy is between 50-60 mph. If you're on the freeway and traffic moves at a faster pace, try not to go above 75 mph as anything above this seems to burn inordinately more fuel.



B. Especially important for Los Angelenos: if you get stuck in traffic, or behind an accident, turn off your engine. Idling uses fuel, especially if you drive a manual vehicle and must constantly rev the engine or ease the car forward.



C. Save air conditioning for must-need moments. Running your air conditioner will actually increase fuel consumption by as much as 10%, so roll down your windows and suck in the fresh air you're trying to protect! If you must run your air, recycle it within your vehicle and turn it off once the temperature in the cabin goes down.



D. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, of course go smaller and more compact when possible.



E. Take off any racks, boxes, or other items that may be on the roof of your vehicle. These cause wind resistance and add to the weight of your auto. Unfortunately this will reduce your fuel economy - sometimes significantly.



F. Car pool. Yes it's obvious, but still people forget to do this. More importantly, unless you're hauling a family of 7 or the entire soccer team, go with the smallest vehicle possible that gets the best fuel economy. And if you're meeting a friend somewhere, take turns picking each other up for your get togethers. That can also save on parking costs and hassles in highly crowded cities.l



G. Use cruise control when appropriate on highways and freeways. Always be safe, but if you can comfortably use your cruise control, do so. It will ensure that as you drive, you don't accidentally slow down and speed up, which is normal on long drives as our attention gets waylaid or we inadvertently drive at the same pace as the car next to us.



Did You Know? Alternative Fuels Are Out There!



Unless you're a die-hard environmentalist or car enthusiast interested in building your own vehicle (which is possible by the way!), you probably haven't heard about the alternative fuels available for standard vehicles. This is largely because these fuels are not near as profitable as oil.



Biodiesel (Globaldiesel)

This is a diesel equivalent, processed fuel that is derived from natural sources. You can purchase biodiesel and use it in your own diesel engine without making any changes to your vehicle. Such fuel is a blend of ultralow sulphur diesel and rapeseed oil



However, you can also create your own biodiesel from used cooking oil (just ask your local restaurants to donate it to you!). However, in this case you would need to modify your diesel engine.



Sulphur-Free Petrol

Many vehicles currently use Ultralow Sulphur Petrol or Diesel. Over the next couple years, this will progress to using Sulphur-Free Petrol. In 2008 use of such will be compulsory in the UK. Apparently, this will take affect in the US as well.



BioEthanol

A distillation of wheat, biomass, and sugar, BioEthanol produces less air pollutants than traditional fossil fuels. It is also renewable. There are different forms of this, including one that uses water and can be used without modifying your engine, and other types that can be mixed with traditional fuel or, if used exclusively, requires engine modifications.



About the Author: We are Southern California's largest auto buying service and we support the use of green energy and environmentally friendly practices.http://www.cash4usedcars.net



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How Can Technology Protect the Environment? It Doesn't, Really

By Buddy F. Evans

No matter how "green" some industries like the automobile industry, still promote technology that does more harm than good and little to protect the environment The answer to how we can use technology to protect the environment is hard to find when you're looking in the wrong place. Of the countless tech-laden ways to curb the degree to which we are littering the environment with things like car exhaust, one solution might be closer and greener than you think. And it's about as low-tech as it gets. Instead of thinking about technology advancements to protect the environment like hybrid green cars, we might want to think about using less technology! Those things at the end of your legs?

They might just one of the most efficient, cheapest ways to sustainable living. Along with the obvious - walking - your feet can push on a pair of pedals and get you around town on your bicycle with greater ease and benefit than fighting traffic. The citizenry of Planet Earth is now being forced to look at our home as a two-way exchange - we give to and take from Mother Nature - rather than treating our natural resources as a never-ending supply to power our progress. And technology, while it may help to reduce how much we take from nature, will never be as successful as shedding some of our most detrimental human habits. So, as the planet celebrates another Earth Day, let's touch on some facts and information that changes the focus from "how technology can help save the environment" to "how we can use what we have to get where we should be?"

Benefits of Riding a Bike and the Looming Average Cost of a Car The days of ignoring the many benefits of riding a bicycle are over. With the extremely high average annual cost of owning a car, it makes sense not only to commute by bike if you can, but to consider replacing your car with a bicycle all together. Just remember to make sure you protect your investment and prevent bicycle theft when you can while you are protecting the environment, too.

Best Cities in the US for Living without a Car We'll give you a hint, one of top cities for carless living starts with a "new" and ends with a "york." Living in a large metropolitan area like New York will make it much easier to maintain a mobile lifestyle without a car. Access to mass transportation is a key feature in making this possible. According to WalkScore, a group that promotes walkable neighborhoods, while 83% percent of Americans live in metropolitan areas, only 5 percent live within walking distance of decent public transit. Committing to living without a car is definitely one way to go about using new technology in public transportation to stop littering the environment. Options regarding commuter railroads, public bus routes, subways, and streetcars or trolleys can make or break an individual's decision to live car free.

America's Most Walkable Cities There are a surprising number of cities in the U.S. considered to be quite walkable. We might all think of New York, Boston and Washington off the top of our heads. But did you know that large parts of Denver are walkable? WalkScore has a website completely dedicated to finding and promoting "Walkable Places to Live". They ranks 2,508 neighborhoods in the largest 40 U.S. cities to help you find a walkable place to live. On top of that, they have a list of 138 "Walker's Paradises." Twenty-two cities have at least one and therefore fall under our list of America's Most Walkable Cities. New York leads the pack with 38, including Tribeca, Little Italy, Soho, Chinatown, Midtown and Murray Hill.

Is Your Car Killing You?? Air Pollution & Heath Risks Between the effects of global warming, particle pollutants and lack of health benefits in driving -Yes, your car is killing you! Just a glance at a how cars impact our world could turn the most the stubborn skeptic. One U.S. car consumes about 600 gallons of gas each year and emits over 12,000 pounds of carbon dioxide. How about this one - American automobile emissions account for more than 45 percent of the world's automotive carbon dioxide emissions each year, even though the U.S. has only 5% of the world's population perfectly exhibiting a case where technology in one country is NOT protecting the environment in the world. Bottom line: Save a life; sell your car! So, as industries world-wide struggle with the notion of going green and countless new technologies are consumed by the environment vs. economic growth argument, our over-reliance on automobiles is a continuing threat to the health of the planet and to ourselves. And maybe as more and more people consider the question of "how does technology protect the environment?", they will find that perhaps their feet might offer the best guidance. Putting an end to littering the environment with our various pollutants might naturally follow.

Buddy Evans is the Vice President of Big Bucks Auto�, one of the largest and most reputable used car buyers in the Tri State Area. Buddy has authored several automotive articles and Big Bucks Auto� eNewsletters about various topics related to the automotive industry. Visit Buddy and his team at Big Bucks Auto� to Get a Free Quote and learn how you can sell your car for cash. Discover why so many people choose Big Bucks Auto�, instead of going through the hassles of selling privately, or the pain of getting undercompensated on a trade-in.

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Technology and the Environment

By Danish Muzaffar

To one who has seen the adverse effects of some technologies on the environment the question how does technology protect the environment? May have only one answer - it doesn't! The reality however is that from the onset science and technology has been at the forefront of ensuring the environment is safeguarded. Science is a weapon through which good or evil can be done depending on the consciences of those who are using it. There are lot of ways in which technology has been used to restore the integrity of the environment.

From reversing the damage done by the chlorofluorocarbons (c.f.c's) on the ozone layer to minimizing the harmful effects of the greenhouse gases which bring about global warming science has played a key role in safeguarding the environment. Through science machines that were discovered to be releasing c.f.c's into the atmosphere were removed from the market and in there place others were invented a case in point the refrigerators of old and modern refrigerators that are CFC free. Through scientific research it has been discovered that presence of trees and vegetation greatly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide by absorbing them to use in their natural processes such as photosynthesis which has led to more environmental awareness

Advancements in the scientific process of wastage disposal have led to the discovery and adoption of new and better ways for carrying out refuse and sewerage disposal. Recycling has today become a major activity the world over which has been through the intervention of science. This has led to conservation of resources for example purifying sewerage into clean and safe drinking water and the recycling of polythene into usable plastics.

Use of simple equipment such as garbage cans for disposing litter and recycling of natural waste for instance using vegetable waste as manure may seem inconsequential but in the long term the benefits are left for all to see.

Machines that in the past used to release a lot of toxic fumes into the atmosphere like cars, manufacturing plants and factories and mining apparatus have nowadays been modified to use fuel that does not release harmful gases in the atmosphere. Through the discovery of better ways of making fuel like from use of sugar cane processing the harmful effects of polluting gases have been greatly reduced. Use of more efficient energy systems and means of disposal is how technology protects the environment. Continued scientific research and study into the environmental hazards that abound keeps on creating awareness about what is right and wrong, what should be avoided or done more all in the interest of protecting the environment.

The use of solar panels to harness the sun's energy, application of thermal and wind energy has provided the necessary incentive and alternative to the over use of oil and petroleum as the primary source of fuel which has led to better use of natural resources and the reduction of air pollution from toxic fumes. From these few elaborate examples its clear how science and technology is protecting the environment.

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How Can We Help The Environment

By Barbara Cipak

How to help the environment becomes a global cooperative effort, an insurmountable task so it seems. However from the point of analyzing the direction of population concentrations and their impact, it is essential to understand the results of this undeniable pull to urbanization.



Ways to conserve energy are absolutely the responsibility of each individual, however the changing structure of the city and how corporations can use technology to make their contribution to the effort, becomes a question of money and will. Based on some very negative assessments about where we as a planet could be headed, tosses an interesting curve ball into the "money" debate. The blunt opening paragraph of a news article on Yahoo.com dated October 24, 2006, by Ben Blanchard, outlining a quote by the WWF Conservation Group; "Humans are stripping nature at an unprecedented rate and will need two planets' worth of natural resources every year by 2050 on current trends", essentially begs us to take notice. It doesn't take a genius to understand that finding ways to help the environment from the global perspective, involves completing step 1, 'admit we have a problem'.



Information from the article entitled Cities of the Future in Emagazine.com, points out that during most of human history people have lived in rural areas making a living from the land. The article goes on to explain that In 5 A.D. the population of the world was approximately 170 Million. At that time in history, Rome was an exception to the rule of rural living with over 1 million people in the the city. It would be 17 centuries before another urban area would have a population that size. Still, in the 1800's only 3% of the world's population lived in Urban areas. In this "modern era" the first large city was Beijing, then New York and London.



According to People and The Planet, they estimate that 3.2 billion people will be living in urban centers by 2007. Between now and 2030 it is believed that developing nations will likely absorb almost all global population increases. Estimations of urban growth being 1.8% from 2000 to 2030, mean that while city populations could double, rural areas will scarcely grow.



Outlined in the article Cities of the Future is a statement by Werner Fornos, president of the Washington-based Population Institute saying that "by 2050, an estimated two-thirds of the world's population will live in urban areas, imposing even more pressure on the space infrastructure and resources of cities leading to social disintegration and horrific urban poverty". Even if this statement is only 50% correct it is cause for concern. Although, urbanization has not always grown as studies have projected, the steady drum of how to reduce emissions and conserve energy, must keep beating. If by 2015, as originally estimated that 27 of the worlds 33 mega cities are in the developing world, there will be a drain by these cities on the world's decreasing resources and a degrading environment.



Traffic congestion and emissions are real and immediate concerns. The population trend forecast make the potential traffic nightmare fuel for a horror novel. Solving infrastructure problems is critical, and some urban centers have already started. As an example, many cities are making efforts to construct passenger lanes to encourage car pooling. Employers are increasing their use of Teleworking Tools, such as Remote Access and mobile wireless technology.



Advances in mobile wireless technology bring about new questions such as the health impact of our increased use of radio frequencies, waves and microwaves. Environmental studies completed in this arena are largely unclear. The true impact of this technology may not be known for decades. However, real environmental solutions are needed starting "yesterday". The growth of urban areas and resolving congestion and pollution become interconnected with the wireless world.



According to the EIA (Energy Information Administration) Official Energy Statistics from the US government, 2005 motor gas prices were up 40% (in constant dollars) since 1990. They also stipulate that residential natural gas prices are up 60% for the same time period. As more employers lean towards providing Teleworking options for their employees, the implementation of Telecommuting and Satellite Offices designed with energy conservation strategies is a real part of the working future. Remote computer access takes on a whole new meaning when factored into a corporate conservation strategy. We are witnessing the new marriage of technology convenience tools with environmental solutions. Conserving energy to help our environment is a shift in consciousness that will have to include, how we build our cities, our companies and our homes.



About the Author: Author, Barbara Cipak, Site Owner of My-Telework-Tools featuring Virtual Office Tools, such as Remote PC, Computer Phone Calling, Online Meetings, & More for the Mobile Worker & Small Business.



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