We know for a fact that the Philippines is rich in natural resources which we can utilize to further develop our nation. However, this potential is being challenged by different environmental problems our country is facing today. Based on the DENR report from 2010-2015, let us discuss what is the real state of our environment and what could be done to address these issues.
Deforestation and Land Degradation
Human activities such as illegal logging, mining, building of plantations and infrastructures and other destructive activities have led the forest of the Philippines to be diminished to just 7 million hectares or roughly 23.3% of the country’s land area only in 2015. From 2002-2020, the Philippines already lost almost 1.29 million hectares of tree cover which is equivalent to 753 megatons of CO2 emissions. This large emission of carbon dioxide greatly contributes to the Earth’s greenhouse effect, which results in continuous and massive typhoon rains, soil erosion, floods, and landslides.
Air Pollution
According to the National Air Quality Report from DENR, Metro Manila recorded the highest amount of air pollutants in 2015 which is way higher than the standard value. Even the World Health Organization in 2018 stated that out of 100,000 people in the country, there are 43.5 deaths that are related to air pollution. This is likely due to increased traffic volume and vehicular activities in the cities that hinders air dispersion.
Water Pollution
Due to an increase in the number of population and with the increasing demands of the people, our water resources have also become polluted.
"Our rivers, lakes, and bays are now filled with garbage."
According to reports, 50 out of the 421 rivers in the Philippines are now considered to be biologically dead. 58% of our groundwater has been contaminated and can cause water-borne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea.
These are only a few of the environmental problems that the Philippines are facing today. There are still solid waste problems in the country, and the large-scale mining that destroys our mountains.
"If we don't act immediately, it might be too late."
Fortunately, the government is now quick to act to respond to these environmental problems. Below are some of the programs implemented by the government to combat these issues.
If you want to know more, please click the link below.
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