GLOBALIZATION is slowly taking its toll on countries such as China and the United States, considered two of the largest consumers of fossil fuels that pollute the atmosphere and cause global warming.
The consumption of fossil fuels, as evident in the two economic-giants, leads to human health problems caused by air pollution from the burning of coal and oil; damage to land from coal mining and to miners from black lung disease; environmental degradation caused by global warming, acid rain, and water pollution; and national security costs, such as protecting foreign sources of oil.
In the recently concluded Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, both China and the US committed to making substantial reductions in their carbon dioxide emissions.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), China’s utilization of fossil fuels makes up 23 percent of the world’s carbon emissions.
In his speech at the APEC Summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping said his country’s emissions would peak by 2030 before finally declining in the following years.
The Chinese government has crafted a five-year plan in 2011, aiming to set energy efficiency and reduce carbon intensity.
On the other hand, the US — which comprises 19 percent of the world’s carbon emissions — said that by 2025, the country would be emitting 26 to 28 percent less carbon dioxide than in 2005.
The Philippines, even though not identified by EPA as one of the top emitters, should still adhere to the reforms addressing the consumption of greenhouse gases.
The archipelago stands as a witness to the effects global warming— experiencing sudden rains and flashfloods that claim hundreds and thousands of innocent lives.
Many Filipinos have shown the initiative to combat the harm caused by the extreme pollution, but with laws such as the Clean Air Act that have been passed in the Congress, the implementation has not been very strict.
The Philippine government’s effort to eliminate smoke belching cars passing by the 34-kilometer stretch of EDSA has not been in full force. Enforcers are designated in very little portions of the avenue.
One of the best alternatives to coal exploits is the use of renewable energy. Switching from oil-dependent cars to eco-friendly vehicles may also aid towards the minimal carbon footprint.
The Philippine government is urged to follow the lead of powerhouses like the US and China by investing in innovations to combat the effects of global warming.
This matter should not be taken lightly. Having a healthy environment is also an indication of a progressive country.
(AJPress)
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