Fifth of world's corals already dead, say experts
Climate change greatly endangering corals. In a report presented during the United Nations meeting in Poland, the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network stated that the world has already lost one-fifth of its corals. This decline in the coral populations, which provide vital protection to coasts and marine life, is chiefly due to the effects of global warming such as ocean temperature rises and sea acidification.
The report stated that the remaining corals are also headed for sure extinction if humans do not act quickly to conserve them. We thank the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network for addressing this critical matter of our time. May we all do our part to restore the beautiful marine coral and the manifold life that it supports.
On November 30, East Coast FM, one of the most popular radio stations in Ireland, invited Supreme Master Ching Hai to share with listeners her thoughts on vegetarianism’s link to personal and environmental health. The following is Supreme Master Ching Hai’s answer regarding the critical role coral reefs play in maintaining our ecological balance.
Live interview with Supreme Master Ching Hai by East Coast FM Radio, Ireland Sunday, November 30, 2008
Supreme Master Ching Hai : The coral reefs are there for some reason. There are many factors that affect coral reefs like coastal development, water pollution, changing sea water temperature because of global warming. So global warming is the greatest threat as it causes coral bleaching when temperature gets too high. Coral reefs are just like the forests on land. They are the protectors of one hundred-plus countries’ coastlines against storm surges and hurricanes. And they are also the supporters of over 25 percent of all marine species. They are the medical treasure which is used in many medicines like antihistamines, antibiotics, treating for asthma, heart disease even, etc, etc. So you see how important it is. And there are many more things that we have not discovered about the benefits of coral reef and marine life.
Animals singing Christmas classic is internet hit
Festive Christmas video encourages help for the environment. The video “ ,” which has already received over 2 million viewings on YouTube, features a variety of animals singing and playing instruments to highlight the need for taking care of our Earth. As part of its campaign to encourage environmental awareness through appreciation of nature, the video is also being shown on the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) “Breathing Spaces” website. Kudos and many thanks, British Broadcasting Corporation, for this fun way to raise eco-awareness and action. With Heaven’s grace, may we all come to live in harmony with the intricate ecosystems of our Earth.
Canon Vietnam ( CVN) kicked off “Let’s study environment protection” project
Environmental project launched in Âu Lạc (Vietnam). Canon Vietnam (CVN), the Âu Lạc branch of the international electronics company, has established the “Let’s Study Environment Protection” project as an extracurricular activity in Hà Nội’s primary schools. The program introduces students to the 3 Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle – as well as other effective eco-friendly measures. CVN hopes to expand this initiative to other provinces as well. Our accolades and gratitude, Canon Vietnam, for this green initiative that helps inform the younger generation about the need to protect our environment. With such exemplary endeavors as yours, surely more and more children will be encouraged toward responsible stewardship of our precious planet.
Kudzu Gets Kudos as a Potential Biofuel
Invasive weed turned into inexpensive biofuel. Tennessee, USA inventor Doug Mizell has succeeded in turning kudzu, a plentiful weed capable of growing a foot a day, into a commercial biofuel. Using recycled components, Mr. Mizell can transform an acre of the quick-growing kudzu into 10 gallons of fuel for as little as US$1 per gallon. A green hats off, Mr. Mizell, for this innovative bio-fuel! Our best wishes for your continued success in bringing eco-benefit to the lives of many.