Study: Climate change to affect monsoon in South Asia
Climate change could disrupt South Asian monsoon season. A recent study by researchers at Purdue University in Indiana, USA revealed that global warming could cause major changes in the monsoon patterns of South Asia, including delayed onset and less precipitation overall. With over half the world’s populations living in monsoon-affected regions, such shifts would have a significant effect on water resources, especially as, for example, 90 percent of the water used in India comes from monsoon rains. Associate Professor and Interim Director of the Purdue Climate Change Research Center, Noah Diffenbaugh, whose research group led the study, stated, "Agricultural production, water availability and hydroelectric power generation could be substantially affected by delayed monsoon onset and reduced surface runoff.”

We are grateful to the Purdue University scientists for reminding us of the precarious balance of our ecosphere that could affect countless people. Let us all work to ensure the welfare of our fellow co-inhabitants through an ever-increasing adoption of green, compassionate lifestyles.

In December 2006, Supreme Master Ching Hai spoke with our Association members in the United Kingdom about the danger to survival that is linked with such shortages of water and other natural resources.

London, United Kingdom December 24, 2006

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Because we are destroying the planet and we are fighting each other instead of fighting the real enemy. That is the destroying of the planet. And the ruining of the resources of the world. We are short. If we don’t stop, we will be short of many things.

 And then the real war will really break out. When people are hungry and desperate. Then nothing can stop it. Because they’re already desperate, they’re already pushed to the wall already, they have nothing to lose. Then there will be much more trouble than now. So, do what you can and think what you can. All positive. All for reconstruction of this world or saving of the world.

Climate change accelerates water hunt in U.S. West
California facing steep losses due to drought. With global climate change causing increased water scarcity, farmers in California, USA suffered losses of at least US$300 million last year. Last month, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency due to the extreme water shortages, and the city of Los Angeles is now planning to ration water for the first time in 15 years.

Most recently, Kern County in southern California announced the likelihood of another US$300 million in losses this year, with some 40,000 acres of crops that will be under-irrigated and another 40,000 acres that won’t be planted at all. The state has called for emergency measures to cope with the shortages, and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is suggesting more focused recovery measures such as groundwater cleanup and storm water harvesting.

We appreciate the efforts of the Natural Resources Defense Council and all others working to alleviate this dire situation. Let us all join together in adopting new levels of sustainable living that support all life on our Earth.

 Sweden unveils 'ambitious' clean energy strategy
Sweden raises the bar on clean energy goals. A recently unveiled plan maps the way to fossil fuel independence by 2050, which would make Sweden the European Union member nation with the most stringent policies on greenhouse gas reductions to date. In seeking to fulfill 50 percent of energy requirements sustainably by 2020 and for all cars to be independent of fossil fuels by 2030, taxes would be imposed according to carbon emission levels, with eco-friendly versions of vehicles and fuel being subjected to lesser amounts. Environment Minister Andreas Carlgren stated, "We are now raising our ambition level and increasing our climate policy pace."

Our green salute, Minister Carlgren and Sweden, for nobly leading the way in emission reducing practices! Blessed be endeavors such as yours in caring for the balance of our shared Earthly home.