LAND CHARACTERISTICS

Land is a different type of factor of production than others. it possesses the following characteristics:
1) land is a free gift of nature- land is a gift of nature given to man free of cost

2) land is limited in supply- other factors of production can be increased in supply to a greater or lesser extent. but it is impossible to increase the supply of land 3) land is a primary factor of production- in every kind of production, we have to make use of land 4) land is a passive factor of production- land is a passive factor of production because it cannot produce anything by itself 5) land is indestructible 6) land is immovable 7) land varies in fertility 8) land differs in location 9) land has many uses

ACT No. 2874 TITLE I CHAPTER I. SHORT TITLE OF THE ACT, LANDS TO WHICH IT APPLIES, AND OFFICERS CHARGED WITH ITS EXECUTION. Section 1. The short title of this Act shall be "The Public Land Act." Section 2. The provisions of this Act shall apply to the lands of the public domain; but timber and mineral lands shall be governed by special laws and nothing in this Act provided shall be understood or construed to charge or-modify the government and disposition of the lands commonly called "friar lands" and those which, being privately owned, have reverted to or become the property of the Philippine Government, which administration and disposition shall be governed by the laws at present in force or which hereafter be enacted by the Legislature.

Section 3. While title to lands of the public domain remains in the Government, the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources shall be the executive officer charged with carrying out the provisions of this Act, through the Director of Lands, who shall act under his immediate control. Section 4. Subject to said control, the Director of Lands shall have direct executive control of the survey, classification lease, sale, or any other form of concession or disposition and management of the lands of the public domain, and his decisions as to questions of fact shall be conclusive when approved by the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Section 5. The Director of Lands, with the approval of the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources, shall prepare and issue forms, instructions, rules and regulations consistent with this Act, as may be necessary and proper to carry into effect the provisions thereof and for the conduct of proceedings arising under such provisions. Section 6. The Governor-General, upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources, shall from time to time classify the lands of the public domain into (a) Alienable or disposable (b) Timber and

(c) Mineral lands

and may it any time and in a like manner transfer such lands from one class to another, for the purposes of their government and disposition.

Section 7. For the purpose of the government and disposition of alienable or disposable public lands, the Governor-General, upon recommendation by the Secretary of Agriculture

and Natural Resources, shall from time to time declare what lands are open to disposition or concession under this, Act.

Section 8. Only those lands shall be declared open to disposition or concession which have been officially delimited and classified and, when practicable, surveyed, and which have not been reserved for public or quasi-public uses, not appropriated by the Government, nor in any manner become private property, nor those on which a private right authorized and recognized by this Act or any other valid law may be claimed, or which, having been reserved or appropriated, have ceased to be so. However, the Governor-General may, for reasons of public interest, declare lands of the public domain open to disposition before the same have had their boundaries established or been surveyed, or may, for the same reasons, suspend their concession or disposition by proclamation duly published or by Act of the Legislature.

Section 9. For the purposes of their government and disposition, the lands of the public domain alienable or open to disposition shall be classified, according to the use or purposes to which such lands are destined, as follows: (a) Agricultural (b) Commercial, industrial, or for similar productive purposes. (c) Educational, charitable, and other similar purposes. (d) Reservations for town sites, and for public and quasi-public uses. The Governor-General, upon recommendation by the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources, shall from time to time make the classification provided for in this section, and may, at any time and in a similar manner, transfer lands from one class to another.

Section 10. The words "alienation,'' "disposition," or "Concession" as used in this Act, shall mean any of the methods authorized by this Act for the acquisition, lease, use or benefit of the lands of the public domain other than timber or mineral lands.

BIODIVERSITY
Biodiversity is the degree of variation of life forms within a given species, ecosystem,biome, or an entire planet. Biodiversity is a measure of the health of ecosystems. Biodiversity is in part a function of climate. In terrestrial habitats, tropical regions are typically rich whereas polar regions support fewer species.

Philippine Biodiversity: A World's Showcase

As compared with other countries, she has more endemic species in groups like plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, and butterflies. Certainly, we can call her a Paraisong Pinaka or a paradise of some of the best and the rarest plant and animal species in the world. Our rainforests are home to 102 species of amphibians (82 of which are endemic or found only in the Philippines), 254 species of reptiles (208 are endemic), 179 mammals (111 endemics), 20,940 species of insects (14,616 are endemic), 578 species of birds (196 are endemic), 15,000 kinds of plants (7,500 are endemic). Even our seas and oceans are teeming with life. In fact, marine scientists consider the Philippines as the center of the center in marine biodiversity. Its coral reefs, which spans 300,000 km2 holds diverse species of fish and many organisms, which are greater than those in the Eastern Papua New Guinea, the Ryukyu and Yaeyama Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Yet, Philippine biodiversity is also alarmingly endangered. With continuous logging, mining and exploitative activities in the forests, Filipinos are exposed to environmental disasters as well as water and food crises, and health hazards.

We hope forest and marine destruction stops today. Every Filipino deserves to experience the best that our own Philippine biodiversity has to offer. Showcasing some of the Pinaka or the best and the rarest wildlife species in the Philippines NorthernLuzonGiantCloudRat(Phloeomyspallidus) The largest endemic rat in the Philippines.They weigh up to 2.5 kilos. Unlike ordinary mice and rats, they dont spread diseases or pose threats to humans. They are quiet and timid animals that nest in hollow trees. They actively forage in the forests and feed on tender young leaves. However, cloud rats are severely threatened due to the destruction of their habitat and by rampant hunting for their meat. Only one young is born in a year; thus, their slow-growing population also contributes to the threats they face. LargeFlyingFox(Pteropusvampyrus) The largest bat in the world. With a wingspan of nearly 6 ft or 1.7m and weight of 1.5 kg, they are indeed the largest in the fruit bat category. These dogs and foxes look-alike, roost in large groups and hang themselves upside down in treetops. By sunset, their stretching, flying and feeding activities start. They can travel up to 60 km every night just to feed on flowers, fruits and nectars. As voracious eaters, they can consume food, which amounts to half their body weight. Flying foxes are mammals, and like humans, the mother produces milk for the young ones, and gives birth to a single young each year, but rarely twins. Unfortunately, their survival is threatened by humans indiscriminate hunting for food, habitat conversion to other land uses, and forest destruction.

Dugong(Dugongdugon) The only vegetarian marine mammal in the world. They are more closely related to elephants than to marine mammals such as whales and dolphins. Their closest living aquatic relatives are the manatees. Dugongs can eat 30-40 kilos of sea grass and algae in a day. Adults can weigh up to 400kg and measures 2-4m long. Every 1-3 minutes, they surface in the water to breath. Their average swimming speed is

about 10 kmph, but if pressured they can double their speed over short distances. These magnificent yet endangered creatures are hunted throughout the range for their meat, as well as their hide for leather, bones and teeth for ivory artifacts and sugar refining, and for oil. They give birth once every 3 to 7 years, but they can live up to 55 to 70 years. PalawanMouseDeer(Tragulusnapu) The smallest deer in the Philippines. Probably originated from the mainland Asia, they are also called the Malayan Mouse Deer. True to their name, they can only be seen in Palawan. Their body measurement is approximately 2.3-2.5 ft and they weight 5-8 kg. These solitary creatures tend to flock in small groups and are active during the night. Their stomach is three-chambered. Plants, and occasionally invertebrates and small mammals, are their main diet. They can live up to 14 years. A mother mouse deer can become pregnant after an hour of giving birth. Sinarapan(Mistichthysluzonensis) The smallest food fish in the world. So tiny, they measure only 2.1-2.45 cm and have an average length of 12.5mm. The males of this species are smaller, shorter and more slender than the females. Their home is confined in Lakes Buhi, Bato, Katugday and Manapao in Camarines Sur Province and along the Bicol River. A school of Sinarapan, approximately 100,000 to 500,000 individuals, swim at an average depth of 7 to 10 meters. If placed inside a tabletop aquarium, they live for only about 10 minutes. PygmyForestFrog(Platymantispygmaeus) The smallest frog in the Philippines. So small, they measure only 14-16 mm or about the size of a 10-centavo coin. So light, they weigh only 0.2-0.4 grams. The home range of these nocturnal and land-dwelling animals is confined in the lowland forests of the Northern Sierra Madre Mountains in Isabela and Kalinga-Apayao provinces. GiantClam(Tridacnagigas) The largest and heaviest mollusc in the world.

Quite large at 4ft 6in and quite heavy at 200-500 kilos. Their shells may reach up to 1.5m in length. Once fully grown, Giant Clams cannot completely close their shells anymore. These large creatures occupy coral reef habitats, typically within 20m of the water surface. They are stationary or unable to move from their position in the coral reef. They are found in shallow waters of the Pacific Ocean, from Thailand and Japan to Australia and Micronesia. MangkonoorPhilippineIronwood(Xanthostemonverdugonianus) The hardest tree in the Philippines Cutting a Mangkono tree of about 70 cm diameter usually takes two to four days. The species is endemic to the Philippines and is known to have a very limited habitat. It is indigenous only within the so-called Mangkono Triangle area consisting of the Dinagat Island in Surigao, the Homonhon Island in Samar, Babatngon in Leyte, and in Palawan. It rarely grows more than a few inches in diameter. It is mainly used as pillars of small houses. In islands where the Mangkonos are found, people believe that the tree becomes tougher when exposed to heavy rainfall.

Problems and Threats Biodiversity loss in the Philippines stems from causes classified into four broad categories: 1. habitat destruction 2. overexploitation 3. chemical or environmental pollution 4. biological pollution and 5. Weak Institutional and Legal Capacities.

Habitat Destruction Habitat destruction and loss can be traced to anthropogenic and nature-wrought causes. Anthropogenic activities include destructive and unsustainable practices such as

1. logging, 2. fires, 3. land conversion, 4. siltation, 5. destructive fishing methods, and 6. encroachment and occupancy in protected areas. Nature-wrought destructions are due to natural calamities like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, typhoons, and pests and diseases. The Mt. Pinatubo volcanic eruption has resulted in the loss of un determine vital components of the tropical forest and marine waters of the Subic-Bataan National Park. It also resulted in the destruction of vast farmlands by its volcanic lava and subsequent lahar flows. Furthermore, agro ecosystems that lie along typhoon paths suffer significant destruction annually.

Overexploitation Population pressure, poverty and paucity of livelihood opportunities, dearth of values, and the "open access" nature of many bioresources all contribute to the overexploitation and non-sustainable use of our countrys biodiversity. In forests, commercial timber species (e.g., dipterocaps, kamagong, narra) as well as nontimber species (e.g., orchids, ferns, rattan, insects, birds, mammals) and animal products (e.g. birds nests, guano), are overharvested. Mangrove timber are overharvested for fuelwood, animals for trade (waterfowls, reptiles) and fish and shellfish for food. In the marine ecosystem, commercially important species, notably tuna, shellfish and other edible species are overharvested. Agricultural ecosystems are hard pressed to yield greater harvests to feed the teeming population. Protected areas are not spared the onslaught of overexploitation from the greedy hands of man because of economic realities. Chemical (Environmental) Pollution Pollutants overwhelm our ecosystems and overtax the dispersal and self-cleansing capacity of our atmosphere, water bodies and land.

Forest ecosystems, in general, are less subjected to chemical pollution compared to other ecosystems with the exception of chemical defoliants usage. It is the wetland ecosystems that take much toll from chemical wastes from mine tailings, hazardous wastes from industrial plants, factory discharges, agricultural fertilizer and pesticide run-offs, and even household wastes. Marine ecosystems are subject to the same chemical pollutants as wetlands but they are less vulnerable because of their greater expanse. Oil slicks, however, inflict serious harm to marine habitats and their biota. Agricultural ecosystems are poisoned by intensive fertilizer and pesticide applications. Even useful non-pests and humans, as well , are threatened by this inappropriate farming methods. Biological Pollution (Species Level) By and large, the successful introduction of exotic species occurred in wetland ecosystems, particularly in lakes and rivers, and has been at the expense of the endemic and indigenous species either directly through predation, competition, and hybridization or indirectly through parasites and habitat alteration. For instance, the original fish population of Caliraya Lake has disappeared with the introduction of the black bass, Microterus salmoides.

Benefits of biodiversity There are a multitude of benefits of biodiversity in the sense of one diverse group aiding another such as: Food and drink Biodiversity provides food for humans. About 80 percent of our food supply comes from just 20 kinds of plants. Although many kinds of animals are utilized as food, again most consumption is focused on a few species. There is vast untapped potential for increasing the range of food products suitable for human consumption, provided that the high present extinction rate can be halted. Medicines A significant proportion of drugs are derived, directly or indirectly, from biological sources; in most cases these medicines can not presently be synthesized in a laboratory setting. Moreover, only a small proportion of the total diversity of plants has been thoroughly

investigated for potential sources of new drugs. Many medicines and antibiotics are also derived from microorganisms. Industrial materials A wide range of industrial materials are derived directly from biological resources. These include building materials, fibers, dyes, resins, gums, adhesives, rubber and oil. There is enormous potential for further research into sustainably utilizing materials from a wider diversity of organisms. Other ecological services Biodiversity provides many ecosystem services that are often not readily visible. It plays a part in regulating the chemistry of our atmosphere and water supply. Biodiversity is directly involved in recycling nutrients and providing fertile soils. Experiments with controlled environments have shown that humans cannot easily build ecosystems to support human needs; for example insect pollination cannot be mimicked by man-made construction, and that activity alone represents tens of billions of dollars in ecosystem services per annum to mankind. Leisure, cultural and aesthetic value Many people derive value from biodiversity through leisure activities such as enjoying a walk in the countryside, bird watching or natural history programs on television. Biodiversity has inspired musicians, painters, sculptors, writers and other artists. Many cultural groups view themselves as an integral part of the natural world and show respect for other living organisms.

Solid Waste Solid waste means any garbage, refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded materials including solid, liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining and agricultural operations, and from community activities, but does not include solid or dissolved materials in domestic sewage, or solid or dissolved materials in irrigation return flows or industrial discharges that are point sources subject to permit under 33 USC 1342, as amended (86 Stat. 880), or source, special nuclear or by-product material as

defined by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (68 Stat. 923) except as may be provided by existing agreements between the State of New York and the government of the United States (see section 360-1.3 of this Part). In Simple Words - Solid wastes are any discarded (abandoned or considered waste-like) materials. Solid wastes can be solid, liquid, semi-solid or containerized gaseous material. Examples of solid wastes:

waste tires septage scrap metal

latex paints furniture and toys domestic refuse (garbage) discarded appliances and vehicles uncontaminated used oil and anti-freeze empty aerosol cans, paint cans and compressed gas cylinders construction and demolition debris, asbestos

A material is discarded if it is abandoned by being:

disposed of; burned or incinerated, including being burned as a fuel for the purpose of recovering usable energy; or accumulated, stored or physically, chemically or biologically treated (other than burned or incinerated) instead of or before being disposed of.

A material is disposed of if it is: Discharged, deposited, injected, dumped, spilled, leaked or placed into or on any land or water so that such material or any constituent thereof may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged into groundwater or surface water.

The Sewerage System

The system of pipes used to collect and carry rain, waste water and trade waste away for treatment and disposal is called the sewerage or the waste water system. There are three types of sewerage systems:

Foul sewers carry waste water, that is water that has been used for cooking and washing, waste from toilets and from trade premises to our wastewater treatment works;

Surface water, or Storm sewers carry rainwater from roofs, paved areas, pavements and roads. Surface water sewers generally flow into streams, rivers or watercourses; Combined sewer this is a single pipe system which carries both wastewater and surface water to our wastewater treatment works. These are often found in older town centre systems. Single pipe systems are no longer designed or constructed

The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 Republic Act 9275 Salient Features of the Act The State shall pursue a policy of economic growth in a manner consistent with the protection, preservation and revival of a quality of our fresh, brackish and marine waters. . To achieve this end, the framework for sustainable development shall be pursued. As such, it shall be the policy of the State to: Streamline processes and procedures in the prevention, control and abatement of pollution of the countrys water resources; Promote environmental strategies, use of appropriate economic instruments and of control mechanisms for the protection of water resources; Formulate a holistic national program of water quality

management that recognizes that water quality management issue cannot be separated from concerns about water sources and ecological protection , water supply, public health and quality of life; Formulate an integrated water quality management framework through proper delegation and effective coordination of functions and activities; Promote commercial and industrial processes and products that are environment friendly and energy- efficient; Encourage cooperation and self-regulation among citizen and industries through the application of incentives market-based instruments and to promote the role of private industrial enterprises in shaping its regulatory profile within the acceptable boundaries of public health and environment; Provide for a comprehensive management program for water pollution focusing on pollution prevention; Promote public information and education to encourage the participation of an informed and active public in water quality management and monitoring; and Formulate and enforce a system of accountability for short and long term adverse environmental impact of a project, program or activity. Encourage civil society and other sectors, particularly labor, the academe and business undertaking environment-related activities in their efforts to organize, eradicate and motivate the people in addressing pertinent environmental issue and problems at the local and national levels.

Water conservation Water conservation can be defined as: 1. Any beneficial reduction in water loss, use or waste as well as the preservation of water quality. 2. A reduction in water use accomplished by implementation of water conservation or water efficiency measures; or, 3. Improved water management practices that reduce or enhance the beneficial use of water.[1][2] Goals The goals of water conservation efforts include as follows:

Sustainability. To ensure availability for future generations, the withdrawal of fresh water from an ecosystem should not exceed its natural replacement rate.

Energy conservation. Water pumping, delivery, and wastewater treatment facilities consume a significant amount of energy. In some regions of the world over 15% of total electricity consumption is devoted to water management. Habitat conservation. Minimizing human water use helps to preserve fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating waterfowl, as well as reducing the need to build new dams and other water diversion infrastructures. Reduce water consumption per capita.

Water-saving technology for the home includes: Low-flow shower heads sometimes called energy-efficient shower heads as they also use less energy, Low-flush toilets and composting toilets. These have a dramatic impact in the developed world, as conventional Western toilets use large volumes of water. Dual flush toilets includes two buttons or handles to flush different levels of water. Dual flush toilets use up to 67% less water than conventional toilets. Saline water (sea water) or rain water can be used for flushing toilets. Faucet aerators, which break water flow into fine droplets to maintain "wetting effectiveness" while using less water. An additional benefit is that they reduce splashing while washing hands and dishes Reuse of gray water for flushing toilets or watering gardens Recycling of wastewater through purification at a water treatment plant. Rainwater harvesting High-efficiency clothes washers Weather-based irrigation controllers Garden hose nozzles that shut off water when it is not being used, instead of letting a hose run. using low flow taps in wash basins Swimming pool covers that reduce evaporation and can warm pool water to reduce water, energy and chemical costs. Automatic faucet is a water conservation faucet that eliminates water waste at the faucet. It automates the use of faucets without the use of hands.

Water can also be conserved by landscaping with native plants and by changing behavior, such as shortening showers and not running the faucet while brushing teeth. Use waste water for growth of plants.

The Role of Man in Conserving Natural Resources.

Every individual has responsibility to use natural resources judiciously. This will give equal opportunity to all to use the resources for the benefit of mankind. One should not be selfish to spend the available resources without thinking of other fellow beings. There is no limit to spend natural resources if available plenty but at the same time one should realize that natural resources are nonrenewable sources. The future also depends on such resources. Every individual should think himself or herself as a world think himself or himself as a world citizen. The whole world is a family and all are inter-dependant for a better life. The mother earth has given enough for all to satisfy minimum wants but not enough to utilize. Every individual has a role in the conservation of natural resource like in using water electricity woods, foods etc. water is life and every drop is precious similarly every chemical power saved is like it is produced. Woods should be used so has not to destroy the forest procurement of more food than needed is like putting other starving. Equitable use of resources for sustainable life styles. Everyone has the right to live in this world. All living creatures belong to mother earth and they all have their shine of resources available. All these resources like land, energy, food, mineral, water, forest etc. have to be distributed in an equitable way for sustainable lifestyles of all creatures. The responsibility lies more on the human population because they have got the thinking power and the wisdom to judge good and had man should realize that he is not alone in this world. There are others to use the available resources. Hence responsibility should be for all human being for an equitable use of natural resources for sustainable use of natural resources for sustainable life styles of all in this mother earth.

Effects Development of Environment:

The spread of disease via environment Mans activity has impaired protective ozone cover. Over the natural resources such as land, water, minerals coal, oil etc. development has undermined the stock of natural resources. It has resulted into global warning. There has been addition of toxin pollutants to the environment. It has caused loss of bio-diversity or genetic erosion.

Need for Conservation:

Use of natural resources is increasing but the amount of these resources by decreasing. Deforestation caused the loss of energy resources. Relational and international capacities conserving the resources are not properly organized, must have some common conservation strategy.

Objectives of conservation of natural resources:

To maintain the essential ecological processes i.e. food chain recycling of mineral resources etc and the life support system soil, air, water, pond, plants, animals etc. To ensure the availability and sustainability of resources which assumes the survival of all species is a healthy and easy manner.

To preserve the diversity at the specific habitat levels.

Equitable Use of Resources for Sustainable Lifestyles

Scarcity of resources is the burning problem of modern technology. The twenty-first century will see growing human needs for resources since many parts of the world are using natural resources at a rate faster than the natural processes can replenish it. Natural resources are limited. For example, the existing water sources are being subjected to heavy pollution. Global climatic changes are altering the quality of fresh water sources as a consequence of unknown effects on the hydrological cycle. Sustainable development is currently being discussed as a focal theme in the field of development, planning and other associated aspects. In the light of self-defeating current mode of development and recurrent natural calamities, people are urged to ponder over the faults, shortcomings, lacunae, discrepancies and limitations of the ongoing developmental process and production system. It is essential to sustain the natural resources. We should conserve natural resources so that it may yield sustainable benefit to the present generation while maintaining its potential to meet the needs of the future generation. There are three specific objectives to conserve living resources: 1. To ensure that any utilization of the ecosystem is sustainable. 2. To preserve biodiversity and 3. To maintain essential ecological processes. Resource management should be less energy-intensive, suitable to local ecology and needs of the people, less cost-intensive and more viable in terms of economy, ecology and culture. The Srilankan team, for example studied traditional paddy irrigation systems as a model for water management. Its reports note that from the 5th century B.C. through the 12th century A.D., Sri Lanka developed a technologically advanced civilization based on an intricate system of rainwater

conservation and irrigation. Water users were collectively and individually responsible for maintenance of the irrigation systems and customary laws, known as Sirit, were established governing water use and related aspects of life. Similarly, the italics system is a system of farmer-managed canal irrigation, which has been in operation for more than 300 years in Dhule, and Nasik district of northwestern Maharashtra.

POLLUTANTS
A substance in the air that can cause harm to humans and the environment is known as an air pollutant. Pollutants can be in the form of solid particles, liquid droplets, or gases. In addition, they may be natural or man-made.[2] Pollutants can be classified as primary or secondary. Usually, primary pollutants are directly emitted from a process, such as ash from a volcanic eruption, the carbon monoxide gas from a motor vehicle exhaust or sulfur dioxide released from factories. Secondary pollutants are not emitted directly. Rather, they form in the air when primary pollutants react or interact. An important example of a secondary pollutant is ground level ozone one of the many secondary pollutants that make up photochemical smog. Some pollutants may be both primary and secondary: that is, they are both emitted directly and formed from other primary pollutants.

Major Air Pollutants Air pollution is a real public health and environmental problem that can lead toamong other thingsglobal warming, acid rain, and the deterioration of the ozone layer. This chart names some common pollutants, their sources, and their effect on the environment. Pollutant Ozone. A gas that can be found in two places. Near the ground (the troposphere), it is a major in the lower atmosphere should not be confused with the Sources Ozone is not created Effects Ozone near the ground can

directly, but is formed when cause a number of health nitrogen oxides and volatile problems. Ozone can lead to more frequent asthma attacks in people who have asthma and can cause sore sunlight. That is why ozone is mostly found in the

part of smog. The harmful ozone organic compounds mix in

protective layer of ozone in the which screens out harmful ultraviolet rays.

summer. Nitrogen oxides gasoline, coal, or other fossil fuels. There are many types of volatile organic compounds, and they come from sources ranging from factories to trees. Carbon monoxide is fossil fuels. Emissions are higher when engines are not tuned properly, and

throats, coughs, and breathing difficulty. It may even lead to premature death. Ozone can also hurt plants and crops.

upper atmosphere (stratosphere), come from burning

Carbon monoxide makes it the oxygen they need to run correctly. Exposure to carbon monoxide makes and gives them headaches. fatal. Elderly people with heart disease are when they are exposed to higher amounts of carbon monoxide. High levels of nitrogen dioxide exposure can give people coughs and can make them feel short of exposed to nitrogen dioxide for a long time have a higher chance of getting respiratory infections.

released when engines burn hard for body parts to get

Carbon monoxide. A gas that comes from the burning of fossil seen or smelled.

when fuel is not completely people feel dizzy and tired burned. Cars emit a lot of outdoors. Furnaces and heaters in the home can carbon monoxide, too, if they are not properly maintained. Nitrogen dioxide mostly comes from power plants and cars. Nitrogen dioxide is formed in two ways burned, or when nitrogen in the air reacts with oxygen at very high temperatures. Nitrogen

fuels, mostly in cars. It cannot be the carbon monoxide found In high concentrations it is

emit high concentrations of hospitalized more often

Nitrogen dioxide. A reddishbrown gas that comes from the burning of fossil fuels. It has a strong smell at high levels.

when nitrogen in the fuel is breath. People who are

dioxide can also react in the atmosphere to form ozone, acid rain, and particles. Particulate matter can be divided into two types Particulate matter. Solid or liquid matter that is suspended in the air. To remain in the air, particles usually must be less than 0.1-mm wide and can be as small as 0.00005 mm. coarse particles and fine particles. Coarse particles are formed from sources like road dust, sea spray, and construction. Fine particles are formed when fuel is burned in automobiles and power plants.

Nitrogen dioxide reacts in the atmosphere to form acid rain, which can harm plants and animals.

Particulate matter that is small enough can enter the lungs and cause health problems. Some of these problems include more frequent asthma attacks, respiratory problems, and premature death.

Sulfur dioxide exposure can Sulfur dioxide mostly comes affect people who have from the burning of coal or asthma or emphysema by Sulfur dioxide. A corrosive gas that cannot be seen or smelled at low levels but can have a rotten egg smell at high levels. oil in power plants. It also comes from factories that make chemicals, paper, or fuel. Like nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide reacts in the atmosphere to form acid rain and particles. making it more difficult for them to breathe. It can also irritate people's eyes, noses, and throats. Sulfur dioxide can harm trees and crops, damage buildings, and make it harder for people to see long distances. Lead. A blue-gray metal that is very toxic and is found in a number of forms and locations. Outside, lead comes from cars in areas where unleaded gasoline is not used. Lead can also come High amounts of lead can be dangerous for small children and can lead to lower IQs and kidney

from power plants and other industrial sources. Inside, lead paint is an important source of lead, especially in houses where paint is peeling. Lead in old pipes can also be a source of lead in drinking water. Each toxic air pollutant comes from a slightly different source, but many are created in chemical Toxic air pollutants. A large number of chemicals that are known or suspected to cause cancer. Some important pollutants in this category include arsenic, asbestos, benzene, and dioxin. plants or are emitted when fossil fuels are burned. Some toxic air pollutants, like asbestos and formaldehyde, can be found in building materials and can lead to indoor air problems. Many toxic air pollutants can also enter the food and water supplies. Stratospheric ozone depleters. Chemicals that can destroy the ozone in the stratosphere. These chemicals include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other

problems. For adults, exposure to lead can increase the chance of having heart attacks or strokes.

Toxic air pollutants can cause cancer. Some toxic air pollutants can also cause birth defects. Other effects depend on the pollutant, but can include skin and eye irritation and breathing problems.

CFCs are used in air conditioners and refrigerators, since they work well as coolants. They can also be found in

If the ozone in the stratosphere is destroyed, people are exposed to more radiation from the sun (ultraviolet radiation). This can lead to skin cancer and eye problems. Higher ultraviolet radiation can

aerosol cans and fire compounds that include chlorine extinguishers. Other or bromine. stratospheric ozone

depleters are used as solvents in industry. Carbon dioxide is the most important greenhouse gas. Greenhouse gases. Gases that stay in the air for a long time and warm up the planet by trapping sunlight. This is called the greenhouse effect because the gases act like the glass in a greenhouse. Some of the important greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. It comes from the burning plants, houses, and industry. Methane is released during the processing of fossil fuels, and also comes from natural sources like cows and rice paddies. Nitrous sources and decaying plants.

also harm plants and animals. The greenhouse effect can lead to changes in the climate of the planet. Some include more temperature extremes, higher sea levels, changes in forest composition, and damage to land near the coast. Human health might be affected by diseases that or by damage to land and water.

of fossil fuels in cars, power of these changes might

oxide comes from industrial are related to temperature

Earth's Resources Major Concepts

1. Mineral resources are concentrated by geologic processes operating in the hydrologic and tectonic systems. Many require long periods to form; these resources are finite and nonrenewable. 2. Ore deposits are formed by igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic processes. Many metallic ores involve transport and deposition of metals in a hydrothermal fluid. 3. Earth's principal nonrenewable energy resources include coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear power. Renewable energy resources include solar energy, wind power, hydroelectric power, and tidal power and geothermal energy. At present, these renewable forms of energy provide only a fraction of our energy needs. 4. The location and richness of most of Earth's natural resources are directly or indirectly controlled by plate tectonics. 5. There are limits to population growth on Earth imposed by the finite nature of many of

our natural resources.

Renewable Resources A renewable resource is something that is being continually replaced faster than we use it up.

Solar energy is considered a renewable source of energy because the sun's energy is continuous. (Note that the rest of this list are all forms of solar power.) Wind Power Water Power (Hydro-electricity from dammed rivers, tidal streams and ocean waves) Thermal Power from the earth (Geothermal: Using the earth's heat to generate electricity) Thermal Power from the ocean Biomass, the burning of plant material, is a renewable resource. Even though the burning puts carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, it also prevents a much greater amount of methane being released by the decomposing vegetation, so it is rated as positive.

Trees are renewable because we can replant them.

Non-Renewable Resources A non-renewable resource is something that is not being replaced as we consume it.

Oil is a good example of a non-renewable resource. It is used to make gasoline and other fuels, as well as plastics, such as grocery bags. We are using billions of gallons of oil every year, but it takes millions of years to be replace. We are using up oil much much faster than it is being produced. Once we use up oil from the earth, it's gone. We can't wait millions of years for some more.

Coal is non-renewable. Peat is non-renewable.

Uranium is non-renewable. Most of the time the two terms are referring to sources of energy: Renewable sources are sources of energy that can be reused or that will continue regardless of you using them: power from the Sun, power from waves, power from wind. Nonrenewable sources are sources of energy that have a limited supply and will run out, and not be able to be used in the future: Oil, Coal, Gas. --Renewable energy sources are wind, solar, and hydro-power, and biomass. They will never run out. Nonrenewable energy sources are coal, oil, and other fossil fuels. The similarities are that most of them have a relation with the Sun. A nonrenewable energy source and a renewable energy source are similar in the way some of them are used to transform energy (you cannot create energy, it can only be transformed from one energy form to another.) The similarities are few but there are many differences, most of the positives are on the renewable energy's side. --When you use petrol, gas, coal... basically anything you burn to produce heat and then turn this energy into electricity of mechanical energy (a car engine) you are using a raw material that is not going to be replaced. In fact petrol, gas, and coal take million of years to be naturally produced. When you are burning wood (from trees), the tree grows again... eventually if you let it do so. This energy can be "kind of renewable" as long as another tree grows as fast in order to replace the one you cut.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8749 PHILIPPINE CLEAN AIR ACT OF 1999 Chapter 1 General Provisions Article One Basic Air Quality Policies SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the Philippine Clean Air Act of

1999.

SEC. 2. Declaration of Principles. - The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a nature. The State shall promote and protect the global environment to attain sustainable development while recognizing the primary responsibility of local government units to deal with environmental problems. The State recognizes that the responsibility of cleaning the habitat and environment is primarily area-based. The State also recognizes the principle that polluters must pay. Finally, the State recognizes that a clean and healthy environment is for the good of all and should, therefore, be development and the concern of all. SEC. 3. Declaration of Policies. - The State shall pursue a policy of balancing environmental protection. To achieve this end, the frame work for shall be the policy of the State to: proper delegation and effective sustainable development shall be pursued. It implemented by the government balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of

[a] Formulate a holistic national program of air pollution management that shall be through coordination of functions and activities; [b] Encourage cooperation and self-regulation among citizens and industries through the application of comprehensive market-based instruments; [c] Focus primarily on pollution prevention rather than on control and provide for a management program for air pollution; public in air quality planning and monitoring; and project, program or activity. This shall include the setting mechanism for clean-up and environmental [d] Promote public information and education and to encourage the participation of an informed and active [e] Formulate and enforce a system of accountability for short and long-term adverse environmental impact of a up of a funding or guarantee

rehabilitation and compensation for personal damages. SEC. 4. Recognition of Rights. - Pursuant to the above-declared principles, the following rights of citizens are hereby sought to be recognized and the State shall seek to guarantee their enjoyment: [a] The right to breathe clean air; [b] The right to utilize and enjoy all natural resources according to the principles of sustainable development;

[c] The right to participate in the formulation, planning, implementation and monitoring of environmental policies process; [d] The right to participate in the decision-making process concerning development policies, plans and programs projects or activities that may have adverse impact on the environment and public health; [e] The right to be informed of the nature and extent of the potential hazard of any activity, undertaking or project the level of and to be served timely notice of any significant rise in and the accidental or deliberate pollution and programs and in the decision-making

release into the atmosphere of harmful or hazardous substances; [f] The right of access to public records which a citizen may need to exercise his or her rights effectively under this Act; laws and regulations, to compel the rehabilitation and [g] The right to bring action in court or quasi-judicial bodies to enjoin all activities in violation of environmental cleanup of affected area, and to seek the imposition of penal sanctions against violators of environmental laws; and [h] The right to bring action in court for compensation of personal damages resulting from the adverse environmental and public health impact of a project or activity. Chapter 2 Air Quality Management System Article One General Provisions SEC. 6. Air Quality Monitoring and Information Network.- The Department shall prepare an annual National Air Sec. 7. The said Quality Status Report which shall be used as the basis in Framework, as provided for in not be limited to the shall include, but shall formulating the Integrated Air Quality Improvement report following:chanroblesvirtuallawlibrary a) Extent of pollution in the country, per type of pollutant and per type of source, based on reports of the at the various levels or regulation; d) Recommendations for necessary executive and legislative action; and Departments monitoring stations; b) Analysis and evaluation of the current state, trends and projections of air pollution provided herein; c) Identification of critical areas, activities, or projects which will need closer monitoring

e) Other pertinent qualitative and quantitative information concerning the extent of air pollution and the air quality performance rating of industries in the country. develop an information network for data storage, retrieval The Department, in cooperation with the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), shall design and and exchange.chanrobles virtualawlibrary The Department shall serve as the central depository of all data and information related to air quality. SEC. 7. Integrated Air Quality Improvement Framework.- The Department shall within six (6) months after the effectivity of this Act, establish, with the participation of entities from the private sector, a LGUs, NGOs, POs, the academe and other concerned

formulate and implement the Integrated Air Quality Improvement Framework for among others,

comprehensive air pollution management and control program. The framework shall, prescribe the emission reduction goals using permissible standards, to undertaken within a specified time period, strategies, collective control strategies and control measures

including cost-effective use of economic incentives, management actions, and environmental education and information.

The Integrated Air Quality Improvement Framework shall be adopted as the official blueprint with which all government agencies must comply with to attain and maintain ambient air quality standards. SEC. 8. Air Quality Control Action Plan.- Within six (6) months after the formulation of the framework, the Department shall, with public participation, formulate and with Sec. 7 of this Act. The implement an air quality control action plan consistent action plan shall:chanroblesvirtuallawlibrary a) Include enforceable emission limitations and other control measures, means or techniques, as well as schedules and time tables for compliance, as may be necessary requirements of this Act; or appropriate to meet the applicable systems and procedures air quality; c) Include a program to provide for the following: (1) enforcement of the measures described in subparagraph [a]; (2) regulation of the modification and construction of any stationary source within the areas use policy to ensure that covered by the plan, in accordance with land air quality standards are achieved; ambient

b) Provide for the establishment and operation of appropriate devices, methods, necessary to monitor, compile and analyze data on ambient

d) Contain adequate provisions, consistent with the provisions of this Act, prohibiting any source or other types of emissions activity within the country from emitting any contribute to the non-attainment or air quality visibility; air pollutant in amounts which will significantly

will interfere with the maintenance by the Department of any such ambient deterioration of air quality or to protect

standard required to be included in the implementation plan to prevent significant

e) Include control strategies and control measures to be undertaken within a specified time period, including strategies, collection cost effective use of economic incentives, management action and environmental education and information;

f)Designateairsheds;and g) All other measures necessary for the effective control and abatement of air pollution. The adoption of the plan shall clarify the legal effects on the financial, manpower and budgetary resources of the affected government agencies, and on the alignment of their programs with the plans.chanrobles virtualawlibrary In addition to direct regulations, the plan shall be characterized by a participatory approach to the pollution considered. Likewise, the LGUs, with the assistance from the Department, shall prepare and develop an action plan consistent with the Integrated Air Quality Improvement standards within their Framework to attain and maintain the ambient air quality respective airsheds as provided in Sec. 9 hereof. The local government units shall develop and submit to the Department a procedure for carrying out the action plan for their jurisdiction. The Department, however, shall the enforcement procedure adopted. the air maintain its authority to independently inspect problem. The involvement of private entities in the monitoring and testing of emissions from mobile and/or stationary sources shall be

The Department shall have the power to closely supervise all or parts of function to enforce the standards set by the Department.

quality action plan until such time the local government unit concerned can assume the