Environmental Protection Module 5 PDF

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MODULE 5 Presented by: Michelle Barco Nica Jane Arevalo Rachelle Ann Benavidez  LESSON 1: GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE CHANGE Global warming as defined by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) is the long-ter...

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MODULE 5 Presented by: Michelle Barco Nica Jane Arevalo Rachelle Ann Benavidez  LESSON 1: GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE CHANGE Global warming as defined by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) is the long-term heating of Earth’s climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in Earth’s atmosphere.  EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING Increase in average temperatures and temperature extremes One of the most immediate and obvious effects of global warming is the increase in temperatures around the world. The average global temperature has increased by about 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit (0.8 degrees Celsius) over the past 100 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Extreme weather events Another effect of global warming is extreme weather, other than cold and heat extremes.For example, hurricane formations will change.  EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING Ice melt One of the primary manifestations of climate change so far is melt. North America, Europe and Asia have all seen a trend toward less snow cover between 1960 and 2015, according to 2016 research published in the journal Current Climate Change Reports. Sea levels and ocean acidification Increased ocean temperatures are melting glaciers and ice caps all over the world. Melted ice increases the volume of water in our oceans. Warmer temperatures also result in the expansion of the water’s mass, which causes sea levels to rise, threatening low-lying islands and coastal cities.  EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING Negative effect on humans health and wellness Allergies, asthma, and infectious disease outbreaks will become more common due to increased growth of pollen-producing ragweed, higher levels of air pollution, and the spread of conditions favourable to pathogens and mosquitoes.  CLIMATE CHANGE Climate change is a long-term change in the average weather patterns that have come to define Earth’s local, regional and global climates. These changes have a broad range of observed effects that are synonymous with the term. Responding to climate change involves a three-point approach: Adaptation – adapting to life in a changing climate already in the pipeline – involves adjusting to actual or expected future climate. Mitigation – reducing climate change – involves reducing the flow of heat-trapping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere Responding to climate change involves a three-point approach: Anticipation – is a critical component for building resilience (Boyd et al. 2015). By being proactive, anticipation focuses more on foresight drawn from predictive capabilities, knowledge, experience, and skills (Nuttall 2010) and implying preparation for possible contingencies and consideration of long-term alternatives.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS A. SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT Nature knows best. (Ang kalikasan ang mas nakakaalam). Nature manifests certain processes that enable it to maintain balance and remain in a state of equilibrium. All forms of life are equally important. (Ang lahat na may buhay ay mahalaga). All organisms have a role in the ecosystem (niche) All living organisms were created for a purpose in relation to humans, other species on earth and global ecosystem in general. Thus, when a species becomes extinct, it is like removing a piece of a jigsaw puzzle from the web of life.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS Everything is connected to everything else. (Ang lahat ng bagay ay magkakaugnay). It reflects the existence of the elaborate network of interconnections in the ecosphere: among different living organisms, and between populations, species, and individual organisms and their physicochemical surroundings. Everything changes.(Ang lahat ay nagbabago). Changes in the biophysical world occur naturally. As they say, there is nothing more permanent in this world than change. Consider the following examples.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS Everything must go somewhere. (Ang lahat ng bagay ay may patutunguhan). Applied to ecology, the law emphasizes that in nature there is no such thing as “waste.” In every natural system, what is excreted by one organism as waste is taken up by another as food. Ours is a finite Earth. (Ang kalikasan ay may hangganan). Everything that we need is provided by nature in abundance – food, water, energy, minerals and air. However, some resources that we depend upon nowadays are extracted excessively but are slow to replace. These non-renewable resources experience limits of supply.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS Nature is beautiful and we are stewards of God’s creation. (Ang kalikasan ay maganda at tayo ang tagapangasiwa ng lahat ng nilikha ng Diyos.) Creation presupposes the existence of a Creator. The beautiful nature around us, perfect by itself, has deteriorated due to the negative impacts of human use. This principle suggests how a Human-Creator relationship is translated in our attitude towards creation.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS B. IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS R.A. 9003 – Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 In partnership with stakeholders, the law aims to adopt a systematic, comprehensive and ecological solid waste management program that shall ensure the protection of public health and environment. R.A. 9275 – Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 The law aims to protect the country’s water bodies from pollution from land- based sources (industries and commercial establishments, agriculture and community/household activities).  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS R.A. 6969 – Toxic Substances, Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990. The law aims to protect the country’s water bodies from pollution from land-based sources (industries and commercial establishments, agriculture and community/household activities). R.A. 8435 – Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 It establishes that the Department of Agriculture, together with other appropriate agencies, should take into account climate change, weather disturbances and annual productivity cycles in forecasting and formulating appropriate agricultural and fisheries programs.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS R.A. 8749 – Clean Air Act of 1999. This moves for an effective air quality management program that will mitigate the worsening problem of air pollution in the country. R.A. 9512 – National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008. This promotes national awareness on the role of natural resources in economic growth and the importance of environmental conservation and ecological balance towards sustained national development.  :LESSON 2 SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS R.A. 9513 – Renewable Energy Act of 2008 It promotes the development, utilization and commercialization of renewable energy resources.  :LESSON 3 FOREST PROTECTION, CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT Forests are indispensable to society. Their various ecosystems are vital to human survival and stability of cultures, supporting and regulating environmental processes including the maintenance and regeneration of biodiversity, soil formation and nutrient cycling, crop pollination, infiltration of water, and enhancement of microclimate. Nevertheless, neglectful societies have caused the destruction and degradation of forests worldwide.  National Programmes for Conservation and Management of Forest Genetic Resources Tree improvement and genetic resource conservation activities in the Philippines take place under national reforestation programmes, but are not clearly defined. Breeding of forest trees has historically been underemphasized, owing to a preference for natural regeneration methods such as seed trees for pines and selective logging for dipterocarps. Changes in environmental and socio- economic conditions, however, have promoted more intensive plantation approaches that require specific tree improvement and genetic resource conservation efforts.  National Programmes for Conservation and Management of Forest Genetic Resources In Situ Conservation As early as 1930, legislation was passed to prevent logging of four leguminous timber tree species; namely, supa (Sindora supa), akle (Albizia acle), tindalo (Afzelia rhomboidea) and ipil (Intsia bijuga), as well as a non-legume, Vitex parviflora. Harvesting of an indigenous legume, narra (Pterocarpus indicus), and of any dipterocarp species from virgin forest for log export, have also been regulated.  Integrated Protected Area Systems The main strategy for protecting and conserving biodiversity in the Philippines is the establishment of an integrated protected area system (IPAS). The IPAS was set up to protect and preserve a representative sample of all ecosystems and habitat types in the country, as well as their plant and animal species. Plus tree selection Plus trees are being selected continuously across the Philippine archipelago. The criteria for selection are based on morphology and resistance to pests and diseases, but there have been few attempts to propagate the selected trees in nurseries.  Ex Situ Conservation There have been several ex situ conservation projects and programmes in the Philippines. Seed orchards of various species have been established in several parts of the country under both private and government initiatives. In most cases, however, these orchards have been abandoned because of a lack of funds or trained personnel. Financial and technical needs for rehabilitating these orchards are being studied.  Institutional Framework for Conservation of Forest Genetic Resources Government programmes of tree breeding and propagation are spearheaded by DENR with support from the Forest Management Bureau and ERDB. DENR has prime responsibility for promoting the well-being of the Filipino people through sustainable development of the country’s forest resources, optimal use of forest lands, social equity and effective forest management.  The Philippine constitution has the following provisions relating to the conservation of tree species: Support and protection by the State for the right of all Filipino people to a balanced and healthy ecology in accordance with the rhythm and harmony of nature ( 16, Art. II); framework of national unity and development (Sec. 22, Art. II). State ownership of all natural resources, except for agricultural lands (Sec. 2, Art. XII). Full control and supervision by the State of exploration, development and use of natural resources either by directly undertaking such activities or by entering into co-production, joint ventures or production-sharing agreements with Filipino citizens or Filipino-owned or controlled corporations or associations (Sec. 2, Art. XII).  The Philippine constitution has the following provisions relating to the conservation of tree species: Support and protection by the State for the right of all Filipino people to a balanced and healthy ecology in accordance with the rhythm and harmony of nature ( 16, Art. II); framework of national unity and development (Sec. 22, Art. II). State ownership of all natural resources, except for agricultural lands (Sec. 2, Art. XII). Full control and supervision by the State of exploration, development and use of natural resources either by directly undertaking such activities or by entering into co-production, joint ventures or production-sharing agreements with Filipino citizens or Filipino-owned or controlled corporations or associations (Sec. 2, Art. XII).  Small-scale utilization of natural resources (Sec. 2, Art. XIII). Determination by Congress of the specific limits of forest lands by marking their boundaries on the ground (Sec. 4, Art. XIII). State protection of the rights of indigenous cultural communities to their ancestral lands to ensure their economic, social and cultural well- being (Sec. 5, Art. XII).  The NBSAP has the following goals and :objectives Conservation of diversity through improved knowledge, management systems, research and development, ;information and institutional support ;Sustainable use of biodiversity Equitable sharing of the benefits derived from ;biodiversity Collaborative approaches to conservation strategies and ;management activities Formulation of policies for the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of biodiversity benefits;  The NBSAP has the following goals and :objectives Integration of biodiversity conservation strategies into ;development planning ;Practice of conservation ethics for using biodiversity Multi-sectoral participation in biodiversity conservation; and Fulfilment of the country’s obligations to various international agreements on biodiversity conservation. The following strategies and actions have been proposed to implement the above-mentioned objectives:  Expanding and improving knowledge of the extent, characteristics, uses and economic values of biodiversity; Enhancing existing and planned biodiversity conservation efforts, and identifying potential actions, consolidating research and development, and setting up a network of conservation centres; Formulating policies and laws on biodiversity conservation that emphasize sustainable use and equitable sharing of benefits;  Integrating biodiversity conservation into all levels of government and non-government planning, and strengthening human resources capability for biodiversity conservation; Mobilizing and integrating information, education and communication on biodiversity systems; and Advocating stronger international cooperation in biodiversity conservation.  Apart from the NIPAS Law, eight other decrees, orders or proclamations curb activities that may adversely impact biological diversity. Of these, the following relate to conserving forest genetic resources: Presidential Decree No. 1151. The Philippine Environment Policy of 1978 established the Philippine Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) System. Proclamation No. 2146. This identifies protected areas as environmentally critical. DAO No. 90 series of 1988. This sets quotas for certain animal and plant species collected under a permit for commercial purposes.  DENR Memorandum Order No. 97-17. This protects the habitats of endemic, rare, vulnerable and endangered wetland species. CITES. The Philippines joined the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1981. Executive Order No. 247. This was issued in 1995. It emphasizes “prescribing guidelines and establishing a regulatory framework for prospecting biological and genetic resources DAO No. 95-9. This pronounced that “the basic policy of the government is to establish well-adapted populations of forest trees which provide a sustained supply of forest tree seed and other planting stock for the country’s reforestation programme”.  National Priorities in Conservation Coordination of all government agencies and non-governmental organizations involved in tree breeding and propagation. Strengthening of government units directly involved in forest management, in line with sustained implementation of long-term tree improvement research and development programmes. A campaign to promote investment in the seed production industry by non-governmental organizations. Increasing the production of genetically superior seed and planting stock.  National Priorities in Conservation Continued research and development of superior forest plantations. Possible areas for research include site-specific adaptability testing, increasing seed production by orchards, development of propagation techniques, pollination, hybridization and recurrent selection techniques. Conservation of important germplasm produced by current research activities in selection and hybridization.  LESSON 4: WATER SANITATION AND CONSERVATION As early as 1996, monitoring of the country’s rivers showed that only 51% of the classified rivers still met the standards for their most beneficial use. The rest were already polluted from domestic, industrial and agricultural sources. What is the Clean Water Act? The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9275) aims to protect the country’s water bodies from pollution from land-based sources (industries and commercial establishments, agriculture and community/household activities). Highlights of the Clean Water Act How will water quality be managed? Management of water quality will either be based on watershed, river basin or water resources region. Who will manage these areas? Management will be localized. Multi- sectoral governing boards will be established to manage water quality issues within their jurisdiction. Who are the members of the Governing Boards? Governing Boards shall be composed of representatives of mayors and governors as well as local government units, representatives of relevant national government agencies, duly registered non-government organizations, the concerned water utility sector and the business sector. Highlights of the Clean Water Act What are the functions of the Governing Boards? The Governing Boards will formulate strategies to coordinate policies necessary for the effective implementation of this Act. How will discharges of wastewater be controlled? All owners or operators of facilities that discharge wastewater are required to get a permit to discharge from the DENR or the Laguna Lake Development Authority. How will domestic wastewater be addressed? The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), in coordination with local government units will prepare a national program on sewage and septage management not later than 12 months from effectivity of this Act. Highlights of the Clean Water Act How will the discharge of wastewater be discouraged? Anyone discharging wastewater into a water body will have to pay a wastewater charge. What safeguards are provided for? All possible dischargers are required to put up an environmental guarantee fund (EGF) as part of their environmental management plan. Highlights of the Clean Water Act What are the prohibited acts under R.A. 9275? Among others, the Act prohibits the following: 1. Discharging or depositing any water pollutant to the water body, or such which will impede natural flow in the water body 2. Discharging, injecting or allowing to enter into the soil, anything that would pollute groundwater 3. Operating facilities that discharge regulated water pollutants without the valid required permits. 4. Disposal of potentially infectious medical waste into sea by vessels. Highlights of the Clean Water Act 5. Unauthorized transport or dumping into waters of sewage sludge or solid waste. 6. Transport, dumping or discharge of prohibited chemicals, substances or pollutants listed under Toxic Chemicals, Hazardous and Nuclear 7. Wastes Control Act (Republic.Act No. 6969) 8. Discharging regulated water pollutants without the valid required discharge permit pursuant to this Act 9. Noncompliance of the LGU with the Water Quality Framework and Management Area Action Plan 10. Refusal to allow entry, inspection and monitoring as well as access to reports and records by the DENR in accordance with this Act Highlights of the Clean Water Act 11. Refusal or failure to submit reports and/or designate pollution control officers whenever required by the DENR in accordance with this Act 12. Directly using booster pumps in the distribution system or tampering with the water supply in such a way to alter or impair the water quality 13. Operate facilities that discharge or allow to seep, willfully or through grave negligence, prohibited chemicals, substances, or pollutants listed under R.A. No. 6969, into water bodies. 14. Undertake activities or development and expansion of projects, or operating wastewater treatment/sewerage facilities in violation of P.D.1586 and its IRR. Highlights of the Clean Water Act What are the fines and penalties imposed on polluters? Who should implement the Clean Water Act? The DENR is the primary government agency responsible for the implementation and enforcement of this Act, with the support of other government organizations, local government units, non –government organizations and the private sector. The roles of other key government agencies are: The Philippine Coast Guard shall enforce water quality standards in marine waters, specifically from offshore sources. The Department of Public Works and Highways through its attached agencies shall provide sewerage and sanitation facilities, and the efficient and safe collection, treatment and disposal of sewage within their area of jurisdiction. The Department of Agriculture shall formulate guidelines for the re-use of wastewater for irrigation and other agricultural uses and for the prevention, control and abatement of pollution from agricultural and aquaculture activities. The Department of Health shall set, revise and enforce drinking water quality standards. The roles of other key government agencies are: The Department of Science and Technology shall evaluate, verify, develop and disseminate pollution prevention and cleaner production technologies. The Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Philippine Information Agency shall prepare and implement a comprehensive and continuing public education and Interior and Local Government, and the Philippine Information Agency shall prepare and implement a comprehensive and continuing public education and information program.  LESSON 5: THE ROLE OF THE YOUTH IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT Executive Order 579 – A Law Encouraging the Formulation and Implementation of Green Philippines Programs Through the National Service Training Program (NSTP).  LESSON 5: THE ROLE OF THE YOUTH IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT Specified under Section 1 of the said Executive Order that: The National Service Training Program (NSTP) shall endeavor to build a new quality of life that will keep the nation young and beautiful. In order to ensure its realization, all students under NSTP, shall be involved in Green Philippines Activities which include among others: Taking back our forests and replenishing fallen trees with new, protected forests; b. Beautifying our barangay and cities; c. Building more urban parks and recreation areas; d. Purifying our water; and, e. Cleaning up industrial sites.