The global warming
threat is real

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor GUILLERMO TEJIDA III Desk Editor NANETTE L. GUADALQUIVER Busines Editor CEDELF P. TUPAS Sports Editor RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

The United Nations report on global warming has led our government officials to express deep concern for the environment. On the other hand, no tropical cyclones are expected to occur in the country until March this year.

According to a report of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, the period from January to March covers the second half of the northeast monsoon season locally known as "amihan". And April signals the start of the southwest monsoon or "habagat".

This is based on the seasonal climate outlook for the period January to June 2007. The tropical cyclones are likely to follow a normal track, usually across Luzon or Visayas area of responsibility.

The Provincial PAGASA chief has warned of the possibility that the country may be submerged in water following a rise in the sea level due to the melting of the icebergs caused by global warming.

One of the best solutions residents can do to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions that could worsen the problem is to avoid the burning of plastics and reduce smoke emissions from vehicles. These will, at least, minimize the destruction of the ozone layer of our planet.

We urged the agencies concerned not to dilly-dally on the various programs designed for environmental protection, conservation of energy, the use of clean energy and alternative fuels, waste recycling and most of all, on the education of our people at all levels on the urgency of this threat. Surely, none of us would want that this man-made catastrophe will occur in our lifetime or even in those of the generations after ours.*