After reading “saving nature”, I do agree with views of the author. He described nature as a servant and to be sacrifice over man if needed. I truly believe in his sentiment as I have always followed the ‘survival of the fittest’ attitude in life. Just by emulating the behavior of nature, trees in the Amazon outgrow each other for sunlight. Those plants underneath then could not survive and dies to become nutrients for other trees. I could not say more for animals in the wildlife. I have seen celebrities and politicians claiming to be green and hard core environmentalist, resulting in news headlines and more talk shows. Even the environmental issues and cutting of green house gases are part of the American election package. It has already become a norm in all speeches and yet I still see them driving luxurious car and living in fully air-conditioned houses which uses more electricity than any estate. Stating all my views, I now introduce the third category of environmental exhibitor. This particular group of people uses environmental issues to their benefits, saying what people wants to hear without intention of fulfilling it. Unfortunately, this group dominates the majority of the headlines and drowns out the stories of ‘Sane’ environmentalist. I believe these sane environmentalists are more efficient as they think critically and make decisive environment decisions. Just think about it, human lives are of course more important than anything in times of a disaster. Rescuers would do anything just to save a life during a forest fire or flood and people would praise them for their heroic effort. This shows how naturally human reacts in a life and death situations. Therefore, I believe that the ‘Sane’ environmentalist attitude is the way to best tackle our Earth’s environment problems. Only those realistic enough to realize it should be fit to be on the frontpage.
References
Charles Krauthammer, Saving Nature, But Only for Man
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Carbon Footprints in an Urban Jungle
The need for energy has always been on the rise to power economies of many nations. Not only are the developed western countries producing more and more carbon emissions, but there is a growing problem as the population in Africa and Asia start living improved lifestyles which consume more energy. I, as a commoner living in an urban jungle, am guilty of my carbon footprint left around. In this era, carbon emission will always be left behind. It is said that electrical consumption is the biggest producer of carbon emission. Just by switching on the coffee machine or the fan will contribute to more carbon emission. Therefore, carbon footprint is inevitable. However, I do try to reduce them whenever I can. For example, I try to avoid driving to school and instead take the public transport, however the recent increase in ERP was the main factor for the change. Air-conditioning units are also one of the biggest culprits in carbon footprint. They are the main source of comfort for all students and workers. Just imagine the amount of electricity they demand which will lead to more carbon emission. In all, just by typing more will increase my carbon footprint.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Problem Encountered in Writing
A pen is a tool for people to express their views and ideas while writing is an art of communication. Many people may find difficulties in their writing due to lack of confidence in their sentence structuring. Although it is a cliché, but practice still makes near perfect, boosting confidence. Inspiration is also a factor in writing. For example, a writer will need an inspired topic or event to be able to create an interesting writing. For some, a good idea is all they need to kick start their writing adventure. Just by watching more documentary films and even action movies can be the seed to a good piece of writing. Being able to write, will allow people to express their imaginations freely thus resulting in better communication.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Environmental issues in Singapore
Marine Biodiversity in Singapore calling out for S.O.S... The threat against the marine life off the coast of Singapore is increasing. Coral reefs that are part of Singapore’s underwater floral are decreasing at an alarming rate. Marine lives are also being forced away from the polluted waters to look for other suitable homes. All these are caused by the many reclamation works by the people and the busy waterway of Singapore. For a small island like Singapore, land space is scarce, therefore reclamation works are necessary. Hence, the marine habitations are being sacrificed for the benefits of the people. The Straits of Singapore is a busy shipping line for many ships from around the world resulting in much water pollution from the over-crowded water. The lives of the people and the economy are surely put on a higher priority than the marine biodiversity but that does not mean we can neglect them. The government could try to relocate more of the coral reefs into public aquariums where the money generated could be use to clean up the polluted water. The aquarium could also be used to educate the people about water pollution and its bad effects. The people can then be assured of clean and clearer water for their children to live with.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Meaning to Life
Many people have different views on life. For example, scientists would see life as a segregation of cells while a religious person would see life as a creation of God. A historian might also see life in a pile of fossils, which still puzzles me. How about me? I am just enjoying every breath I take and the people around me. I might be one of many Singaporeans living in this pragmatic society but I feel special in some way because of the people around me. I think I would not be the person I am today if not for my friends. Life in school will be boring and quiet without their laughter and eccentric behaviours. I guess in many years ahead, these will all become part of many memories which I will cherish dearly.
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