Responding to threats of climate change

May Celeste R. Cruz

GIVEN our tropical climate, topography and geographic location, population density, socio-economic conditions and other factors, our country is easily vulnerable to the impact of climate change and global warming.

The global rise of temperatures sees drastic changes in our climate. Our country therefore becomes more susceptible to impacts of weather disturbances, flash floods, drought, changes in species migration and feeding patterns, increase in illnesses, and many more serious consequences.

Climate change and global warming are not just environmental issues because they have severe socio-economic implications.

Significant actions are now being undertaken internationally and nationally to arrest the continuous decline of our environment. Concerted efforts are being initiated to help in mitigating the deleterious effects of climate change and global warming.

The Department of Education had embarked on massive, intensive and sustained tree-planting, tree-growing and tree-caring activities involving our pupils, students, teachers, school heads/principals, supervisors and officials. These activities are part of the civic duty of every citizen to help in the global challenge to combat climate change and global warming.

Trees serve as the lungs of our planet. Trees help reduce global warming by sequestering million tons of carbon per year. Trees also provide cooling shade, block cold winds, attract birds and wildlife, purify our air, prevent soil erosion, clean our water, and add grace and beauty to our schools and communities.

The author is Teacher I at Tabing Bakod Elementary School, Santa Maria,

Bulacan