Organic farming improves environment while increasing crops.
A new
review paper released by the US-based Rodale Institute, “The Organic
Green Revolution,” cites several studies, including a recent United
Nations Environment Program report that found organic or near-organic
practices in 24 African countries improved crop yield by over 100
percent.
Another 2008 study of 286 organic farms in 57 countries saw an
average 79 percent increase in productivity. Besides yielding more
abundant crops, organic practices are known to benefit soil, clean
waterways, sequester carbon and reduce pollution. A green thumbs up,
Rodale Institute and all organic growers, for highlighting the
sustainable benefits of organic farming methods. May our world flourish
in abundant sustenance through such ecologically sound practices.
In an
interview with journalist Ms. Andrea Bonnie published on Irish
Independent newspaper on December 17, 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai
explained the benefits of organic farming.
Supreme
Master Ching Hai:
Organic food and produce are grown and handled according to strict
sustainable procedures, with limited chemical input or we could even
use no chemical input at all. Organic food is also GM-free (free of
genetically modified organisms). Organic farming reduces toxic farming
run-off and pollutants that contaminate our water, soil and air.
So
organic farming is healthier for farm workers, the surrounding
communities as well, and for natural wildlife. Now the EPA
(Environmental Protection Agency) considers 60% of all herbicides, weed
killers, or 90% of all fungicides - that means mold killers - and 30%
of all insecticides - that means insect killers - are potentially
cancer-causing for humans and animals of course. Organic farming keeps
harmful chemicals and pesticides out of the food that we eat and the
beverage that we drink. And it’s easy, it’s simple, cost and water
effective. And it’s ecologically, economically sound.
Monaco's Prince Albert heads to Antarctica
Prince Albert evaluates climate change in Antarctica. His Serene
Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco has embarked on a month-long
expedition to see first-hand the effects of global warming at the South
Pole. His visit will include 26 scientific outposts and meetings with
experts on climate change from 18 countries. Prince Albert, who has
long-prioritized environmental issues, has already made a similar trip
to the Arctic and has also signed the Antarctica Treaty on behalf of
the Principality of Monaco. Our sincere appreciation, Your Serene
Highness, for your deep care and valued leadership in addressing this
urgent matter of our time. We wish you a safe and journey with many
shared insights upon your return.
Nigeria: Govt to Build New Waste Recycling PlantNigeria launches a waste recycling company. In cooperation with the federal government and private investors, Kaduna state is establishing a US$20 million facility for composting as well as material recycling. The project is also expected to benefit hundreds of unemployed graduates and young residents of the state. Bravo, Kaduna state government and Nigeria, for your commitment to improving livelihoods through eco-efficient means. Blessed be all green initiatives in bringing balance to our biosphere.
Bush to establish world's largest marine protection areaWorld’s largest marine protection area announced. US President George W. Bush is establishing three marine national monuments in the Pacific Ocean with a total area of 505,000 square kilometers. These protected zones will help ensure the preservation of rare fish and bird species, coral reefs and underwater active volcanoes in the northern Mariana Islands, the Rose Atoll located in American Samoa and a chain of remote islands in the Central Pacific. We express our gratitude, President Bush, for your noble endeavors to help conserve marine life. Let us do our part through our caring stewardship to ensure the continuance of all life on our beautiful planet.