Stranded sea life succumbing to toxic algae bloom.
In southern California, USA, more and more marine animals such as sea lions, elephant seals, dolphins, and sea birds have been found ill or perished along the shores of the western state.
The US-based Marine Animal Rescue believes they have been poisoned by a toxic substance called domoic acid that is emitted by harmful algal blooms. Citing over 1,000 rescues since the beginning of the year, Peter Wallerstein of Marine Animal Rescue said, "In the past weeks, approximately 20 marine mammals  have been rescued that are suspected to be suffering from the toxin."

An additional hazard to marine life is caused by dead zones that release poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas when the algae dies and sinks to the ocean floor to decay. Toxic algae blooms are caused primarily by run-off from agriculture as well as sewage treatment plants and livestock feedlots. We grieve the loss of these precious sea animals that grace our Earth and balance her intricate eco-networks.

May we heed these signs as urgent calls to be more responsible stewards and preserve the sanctity of all life.
During an international gathering in August 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai highlighted  the importance of being good stewards of the Earth to ensure  the welfare of our marine co-inhabitants.


http://cbs2.com/local/Toxic.Algae.Bloom.2.999278.html
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=oceanic-dead-zones-spread
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/reference/toxicalgae.html
http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ncs/newsarch/2005/Sep05/algalblooms.htm

Global warming forcing birds to migrate farther.
A recent UK study conducted by scientists at Durham University and the University of Cambridge found that climate change is pushing the ranges of migratory birds further north to avoid warming temperatures.
Of the estimated 500 million birds that are known to travel every year from Africa to Europe, some of the smallest avian species weigh as little as three tenths of an ounce, and the extra 400 km required in flight could be too much for their survival.

Study co-author Rhys Green of Cambridge University said, “These tiny birds make amazing journeys, pushing themselves to the limits of endurance.

Anything that makes those journeys longer… could mean the difference between life and death.” Professor Green and colleagues at Durham and Cambridge Universities, we appreciate knowing of this sad predicament as we pray that our feathered co-inhabitants may find the strength to survive. Let us do our part in helping to alleviate such consequences of global warming by leading more compassionate, Earth-saving lives.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Earth/
Global-Warming/Warming-makes-birds-migrate-farther/articleshow/4403396.cms


Âu Lạc (Vietnam) launches program to address climate change.
A recent report by the Asian Development Bank on the regional effects of climate change stated that rising sea levels could eventually submerge tens of thousands of acres of rice-growing land.
Some people have already had to leave their homes for higher grounds; thus, a further rise could displace thousands more who live in coastal communities. To help in educating the public about the reality and risks of climate change, the government has approved a US$112 million program that, among other things, plans to introduce the topic in schools and universities.

Deputy Director of the Meteorology, Hydrology and Climate Change Department, Mr. Nguyễn Khắc Hiếu explained, “There’s no doubt that prevention will cost us much less than repairing the damage...
it’s crucial for the public to be aware of climate change so they can learn how adapt to it and mitigate its potential consequences.” Our respectful accolades, Deputy Director Nguyễn and Âu Lạc, for your eco-program to help fellow citizens understand the fragile state of our planet. May the gracious Aulacese (Vietnamese) people and everyone across the globe adopt sustaining lifestyles of harmony with our environment.
http://english.vietnamnet.vn/politics/2009/04/844820/