Widespread drought afflicts China

Southwestern Yunnan province has been experiencing the most severe drought in six decades with some regions not having received rainfall since August 2009. Neighboring Guangxi and Guizhou provinces have also lacked rain, which has been disastrous for farmers.

Some 2.55 million hectares constituting 85% of Yunnan's total growing area and containing such crops as wheat, sugarcane and vegetables have been affected.

Provincial authorities reported water shortages for nearly 5 million residents and over 3 million livestock animals.

With the drought also grounding boats on the Mekong River, the Marine Bureau has stopped issuing permits and is warnings vessels instead to stay away from the waterway. It saddens us deeply to know of the suffering of the Chinese people.

Our prayers for the blessing of rain and that humans everywhere quickly adopt sustainable lifestyles that restore balance to our Earth. During an October 2009 videoconference in Germany, Supreme Master Ching Hai voiced, as she has many other times, her concern for humanity’s plight at this dire time on our planet, while at the same time highlighting the actions necessary to alleviate such crises.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: With current droughts and water shortages already affecting millions and only expected to get worse, worse and worse. But even though our predicament is very grave, we do still have time if we act now. And the solution is still very simple.

It’s the vegan diet – no animal products.

Scientists have found that each person eating a meat and dairy based diet uses around 4,500 gallons of water per day, compared to 300 gallons per day for a vegan diet.

This also means that 1 pound of animal protein requires 100 times more water to produce than 1 pound of grain protein.

Over the course of a year, the vegan diet saves approximately 1.5 million gallons of water per person.

This is the key. If everyone switches to this beneficial lifestyle, our planet will be cooled in no time, scientifically speaking and my promise.

http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90776/90882/6900486.html
http://in.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idINIndia-46421320100224
http://www.prensa-latina.cu/index.php?option=com_content&task...

Oscar-winning film director speaks out for dolphin and ocean protection.

The documentary film, “The Cove,” describing the cruelty of an annual dolphin hunt that takes place in a small bay in Japan, recently won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Documentary.

For the filmmakers, the efforts to end marine mammal killing and to protect the animals’ environment has been ongoing. Just before the Oscars award ceremony, they teamed with vegan eco-activists to go undercover into a restaurant suspected of selling whale meat, which is illegal in the United States according to the Marine
Mammal Protection Act.

After a DNA test confirmed that the flesh being served was from the endangered Sei whale, the violation was reported to officials. The film’s director, Louie Psihoyos, who had participated in the activity, said that the exposure of whale hunting, like his film, is about saving the animals as well as the biosphere that supports their lives.

Louie Psihoyos – Director of Oscar winning film The Cove (M): We’re trying to solve the problem in one little cove, but it’s really a microcosm of what’s going on in the oceans. With all the fertilizers and run-offs and pesticides, it’s killing the oceans.

VOICE: “The Cove” also exposes the fact that the dolphins being hunted are already contaminated with mercury from the polluted ocean waters.

Those hunting them use underwater sonar waves, which drive the panicked dolphins into a small cove that soon turns bloody red as they are brutally speared or knifed to death.

As it turns out, this dolphin meat has some of the highest levels of mercury known in Japan, with the potential to cause neurological damage, especially in children. In addition, the dolphins that are not killed outright are captured and sold into lives of captivity and isolation to entertain humans in zoos and aquariums.
The film’s message is thus to raise awareness about these practices, which wreak harm to so many beings.

Louie Psihoyos (M): The only way that we can save the life of a dolphin now is to prove that we made his environment so toxic, that we can no longer eat them.

It shows you the amount of respect that we lost for the animal and the amount of respect that we lost for ourselves. We’re doing what no wild animal will do; we’re fouling our own nest.

VOICE: We congratulate and thank Mr. Psihoyos and co-creators of “The Cove” for working to preserve our precious oceans and their beautiful inhabitants.

May we treat more kindly our marine friends and the vital seas that we both share and depend upon.

Louie Psihoyos (M): Be veg, go green, save the planet.

VOICE: In a November 2008 interview with Ireland’s East Coast Radio FM, Supreme Master Ching Hai addressed the issue of tainted dolphin meat and once more encouraged the protection of all marine life for our planetary survival.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Some Japanese scientists stated that these products should be taken off the shelves immediately. And Dr. Palombi of Harvard University gave the same advice to the Japanese government - that they should ban dolphin fishing and they should ban dolphin meat selling in the market.

To stop this destructive practice of fishing, the solution is the vegan diet, no fishy stuff in our meals. Choose the life- and Earth-saving vegan diet. Protect animals and the environment.

And pray that all will heed the scientists’ wise counsel and turn to benevolent life courses which will in turn offer a benevolent life on Earth.

http://www.aolnews.com/nation/article/in-sushi-sting-oscar-winners-nab-restaurant-selling-whale/19389362
http://www.france24.com/en/20100308-oscar-winning-film-makers-deny-japan-bashing
http://eii.org/saveJapanDolphins/coveEmail11a.htmlI
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/20/world/asia/20iht-dolphin.1.10223011.html?_r=1
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/01/30/world/main3772997.shtml

Sulfur dioxide pollution highlights methane as key to global warming

With countries such as China and India now reducing pollutants containing sulfur dioxide, Dr. Frank Raes, head of the Climate Change Unit of the European Commission Joint Research Center in Italy reports that the planet is likely to heat more quickly in response.

Sulfur dioxide, which is emitted in the processing of coal, oil and other industrial processes, has already been significantly reduced in many developed nations.

Although it is harmful to health, sulfur aerosols create an atmospheric cooling effect that offsets the heat emitted by the CO2 released in these same processes.

This suggests that the heat from coal, oil and industry in developing nations has played a smaller role in global warming than previously thought. Such a finding corresponds with the conclusions of Dr. Drew Shindell from the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration, who estimated that because of sulfur dioxide’s cooling effect, methane, which is generated primarily by activities related to meat production, is heating the atmosphere much more than previously thought.

Our appreciation Dr. Raes and European Commission Joint Research Center fellow scientists, for this insightful finding. Let us choose the fastest way to return to health and cool the planet, namely, through the safe and Earth-friendly vegan diet.

As mentioned on previous occasions, Supreme Master Ching Hai reminded once again during a September 2009 videoconference in South Korea that the most urgent global warming threat lies in sources other than carbon dioxide.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: If the goal is to be a truly carbon-free society, we should consider all the major sources of greenhouse gases emissions. You see, we are emitting greenhouse gases not just through the fumes from factories, houses, and cars, but also through the products that we choose to consume. Besides, CO2 is cancelled out by aerosols, which are released at the same time from burning fossil fuels.

Even though aerosols are very detrimental to our health, they actually have a cooling effect that cancels out the CO2 heat in the atmosphere.

So the warming climate problem is not from CO2 I repeat, it’s not from carbon dioxide. It is from other sources, mainly methane.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: First and foremost, eliminate the single largest source of human-caused methane, namely, livestock. Stop animal products, then we stop global warming.

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20527481.400-smoke-bomb-the-other-climate-culprits.html
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/earth-environment/article6895907.ece

New film focuses on climate change in Formosa (Taiwan)

Indian girl speaking before UN delegates (F): I’m so much concerned about climate change, because I don’t want our future generations to question us, just as I’m questioning the need for more concrete action on climate change today.

VOICE: Through compelling facts intermingled with voices of eminent scientists along with powerful music and imagery, a new documentary has been bringing citizens together in shared concern for Formosa’s future in the face of global warming.

The film “±2 Degrees C” was named based on scientists’ conclusion that human survival depends on limiting global temperature rise to within 2 degrees Celsius.

Producer Sisy Chen, a renowned Formosan media personality, said she wished to bring the climate change reality, such as rising sea levels, closer to home.

Sisy Chen – Formosan (Taiwanese) media host, producer of “±2°C” (F): On a global scale, the first group of people who might be wiped out the most vulnerable are those on the islands in the Pacific Ocean and Africa. Next, it affects the Asian countries like Formosa.

VOICE: Based on data from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the Central Research Institute, the documentary informs viewers that Formosa’s densely populated areas are in locations vulnerable to disasters; that the island has one of the world’s 10 highest rates of erosion, and that typhoons and heat waves are increasing in severity.

In fact, the film was made deliberately within just six months of Typhoon Morakot, so that it would be widely screened on television and in city and county government venues by the time the next storm season struck.

Chung-Ming Liu – National Taiwan University Climate Change Center (M): Extreme weather events will be happening continuously in the future. We predict that the temperature will hit the record high next year.

VOICE: During the February 22 premiere of the film, the unprecedented gathering of more than 1,000 people was also attended by high-level government officials, including Formosan Premier Wu Den-yih and Legislative Yuan President Wang Jin-Pyng.

When asked how global warming should be addressed, President Wang, along with producer Sisy Chen, expressed their support of the veg diet solution.

Wang Jin-pyng – Legislative Yuan President (M): Cows, pigs and so on release gases and feces which are part of the cause of greenhouse gas emissions.

So if you consume less meat, people will raise less livestock. The less livestock raising, the less gas emissions It’s simple logic.

Sisy Chen (F): I am Sisy Chen. “±2 Degrees C,” Be Veg, Go Green, Save the Planet.

VOICE: Kudos and our appreciation, Ms. Chen and all involved in the making and promotion of this timely documentary. We join the Formosan people in shared resolve to halt the real cause of climate change, praying that all will do so in time through the most effective organic vegan diet.

In an October 2009 videoconference in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai once more shared her concern for those who suffer from the effects of our urgent planetary situation, asking governments and citizens to quickly take proper action.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We also do not forget all the islands and other countries who are submerging or sinking or disappearing or disappeared because of climate change. My heart is troubled every day, thinking of all these innocent people and all the defenseless animals who have to suffer in this great upheaval we call climate change.

But we still have time. We could not reverse the effect of climate change in the past. Whatever happened due to typhoons and floods and earthquakes, etc., we could not reverse the effect. But we could stop future disasters by returning to the compassionate vegan diet and encouraging others to do the same. The government has the power to do this.

I beg all the governments of the world, please, do this before it’s too late, for the sake of your citizens and your own children as well.

* This documentary is also available for downloading at its official website http://正負2度c.tw

History shows that sea levels can rise very quickly

An article published in the February 12 issue of Science magazine describes a study led by US geoscientist Dr. Jeffrey Dorale, in which rock samples were collected from caves off the coast of Mallorca, Spain.

In so doing, the researchers not only identified sea level changes over the past 135,000 years, they discovered that the oceans can rise as much as 2 meters in a century.

Noting that this is nearly 12 times as fast as in the past 100 years, Dr. Dorale stated, “This has major implications for future concerns with sea-level change.

The mechanisms underlying these dramatic changes need further onsideration as we look to a future of impending climate changes.”

Our thanks, Dr. Dorale and team, for your detailed work and its cautionary forecast for our future. Let us all engage in actions that restore harmony and beauty to our shared Earthly home.

Concerned for humanity, Supreme Master Ching Hai has often addressed the tolls of global warming such as rising sea levels and the need for actions to curb them, as during an interview for the September 2009 edition of The House Magazine.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: People forced from their homes and communities due to rising sea levels and a host of other natural disasters, so-called natural disasters, but in fact these are all man-made.

Sea level rise, for example, threatens half of the world's population living within 200 kilometers of a coastline. Seventeen million in Bangladesh have fled their homes already, mainly because of coastal erosion.

At least 18 islands have completely submerged around the world thus far, with more than 40 other island nations at risk from rising sea levels, and planning to relocate.

If humans switch to the vegan diet, the Earth will begin cooling immediately and many of these dilemmas can even be reversed. So please, be veg and do good, to save the planet and all the beings on it, including you and me.

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=sea-caves-reveal-rapid-rise-in-ancient-ocean-levels
http://www.usnews.com/science/articles/2010/02/12/sea-levels-erratic-during-latest-ice-age.html

Media report: Irish celebrity spreads veg solution with Supreme Master Television

Recently in the Environmental Data Interactive Exchange, or Edie.net, Europe’s largest environmental website that has become a main news source for environmental professionals, journalist Luke Walsh wrote about Irish top model and Miss World 2003 Rosanna Davison’s recent campaign to promote the vegan diet.

Titled “Former Miss World backs veganism for climate change,” the article stated: “Rosanna Davison is fronting the campaign for Supreme Master Television, featured on TV3 in Ireland, on buses and the Luas – Dublin's light rail tram system.

The campaign is aimed at encouraging people to re-think their attitudes to animal treatment generally and to eating meat in particular, due to its carbon footprint.”

Ms. Davison, daughter of the world-famous Irish singer-songwriter Chris de Burgh, had been a vegetarian since childhood. She decided to be vegan after working with Supreme Master Television and learning about how only a pure veg diet could most effectively stop animal cruelty while sustaining personal and planetary health.

Edie news cited Ms. Davison as saying: “Watching the effect meat production and meat consumption is having on the world around us in terms of cruelty, emissions and health issues, I was determined to totally cut out dairy, eggs and cheese and have a completely vegan diet. It's going well so far and I feel great.

I've loads of energy and just feel so much more invigorated as a result.”

Many thanks, Mr. Luke Walsh and Environmental Data Interactive Exchange, for your articles that inform readers about global warming’s most effective solution. We also extend our appreciation to you, Ms. Rosanna Davison, for your noble initiative as a beloved role model. May all of Ireland and the world join in preserving our planet with the smart, rejuvenating, and lifesaving vegan diet.

http://www.edie.net/about.asp?channel=0
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=17547&channel=0&title=Former+miss+world+backs+veganism+for+climate+change

Rising levels of fish contaminants linked to climate change

Scientists studying aquatic life in Canada’s Mackenzie River have found that levels of toxic substances such as mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the damaging insecticide DDT have risen dramatically in recent years.

Over just the past decade, the mercury levels of certain fish have increased by 160%, while PCBs have jumped to being six times higher and DDT has tripled.

Their rise is attributed to Arctic melt, with air-borne pollutant particles that were deposited over time in the pristine environment now being released as temperatures warm and the ice continues to melt.

The researchers believe that this has also led to a growth in the algae, zooplankton and other life forms that absorb the pollutants from the water and are in turn consumed by the fish.

Canadian scientists, our appreciation for your work that again highlights the delicate interconnections of life on our planet.

May we show our deep respect for environmental balance by adopting the organic, vegan diet. Supreme Master Ching Hai, who has frequently addressed the importance of every being’s existence on Earth, spoke once more of our need to be good environmental stewards during a May 2009 videoconference in Togo.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: The marine ecosystem is in big trouble right now from global warming already. Further fishing will only make matters worse. Also, mercury poisoning causes problems to aquatic life even before it gets to the humans. These are things we need to address in trying to save our planet, not to talk about our health also. Eating fish will definitely not help this.

The coastal ecosystems will also be affected greatly by diseases and algae blooms that release toxins. The ocean is a wonderful recycler that normally can purify the water and create nutrients and turn carbon dioxide into oxygen, etc. The ocean is a miracle. But if we ruin the ecosystems , this will spell disaster for us.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: It’s better for our body, for our conscience, for our mind, and for the planet to stay away from fish. We should be vegan.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/mackenzie-rivers-fish-contaminated-with-dangerous-toxins-scientists/article1462248/

Evidence of global warming mounts in Australia

New research indicates that the drought gripping the southwestern part of the nation since the 1970s is rooted in climate change. Drs. Tas van Ommen and Vin Morgan of the Australian Antarctic Division have discovered that the approximately 20% decline in winter rainfall is linked to higher snowfall in East Antarctica, found by viewing ice core samples that date back 750 years.

The scientists’ report showed a type of moisture oscillation that is occurring, with cool, dry air flowing northward toward southwest Australia, bringing very little rain; while warm, moist air flows toward East Antarctica, causing increased snowfall.

Previous research has already linked a rise in greenhouse gases to changes observed in the southern hemisphere’s atmospheric circulation.

Dr. van Ommen, Dr. Morgan and associates, many thanks for this insight into Australia’s troubling dry conditions. May we all quickly implement lifestyles that tread more lightly for the restoration of harmony and balance on our planet.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has long cautioned about the human disruptions to climate balance, as during a September 1994 lecture in Singapore where she also explained how our actions can help.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Recently, our world has a lot of disasters, like drought. And then dry climate and heated-up planet due to a lot of weather changing. And then the more it heats up, the more dry.

The more dry, the less trees.
The less trees, the less rain.
The less rain, the less trees, and this is the devil circle.
And every corner of the earth, affects the whole planet.

Therefore, if you yourself; your heart, your mind, your speech, your actions are pure, how much beneficial can it be to this planet?

Supreme Master Ching Hai: The vegan diet is good for you; it would purify your spirit, purify your aura, and make you clear, inner and outside, and protect you.

http://www.physorg.com/news184771509.html

Tipping points could arrive suddenly

A recent study by Dr. Alan Hastings, professor at University of California, Davis in the USA and one of the world’s foremost mathematical model experts, forecasts that sudden shifts in the Earth’s natural systems could arrive precipitously, without warning. Such tipping points, which could come in response to global warming effects like the disappearance of Arctic sea ice in summer, would lead to more dramatic and relentless changes in climate, in turn disrupting other ecosystems and larger weather patterns.

Other effects that could trigger tipping points include accelerated ice loss from Greenland and the Antarctic, leading to massive sea level rises, and carbon dioxide saturation of ocean waters, with acidification that would endanger all life.

Dr Hastings offered a warning summary of the study’s implications as he stated, “This means that some effects of global climate change on ecosystems can be seen only once the effects are dramatic.

By that point, returning the system to a desirable state will be difficult, if not impossible.” Dr. Hastings, we are grateful for your expert voice on this urgent topic.

Let us avert such disturbing consequences by adopting harmonious and sustainable lifestyles now. Speaking with concern about such sudden environmental changes, Supreme Master Ching Hai highlighted the key to their prevention during an October 2008 global warming videoconference in Thailand.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: There’s no other way we can prevent such a disaster like this. We can only wait and see because we don’t know when it will strike us and where and what we can prepare anyway.

Even if we stockpile some food and all that, it is not always helpful. It just makes the world food shortage worsen. So, we can only rely on the good karma that we can create. And that we can do.

We can save ourselves right now by turning into vegan diet which is benevolent, which is very compassionate, and by being compassionate to others, Heaven will be compassionate to us.

Everything will return to a more peaceful abundance because Heaven is merciful. And we have to start to be merciful like Heaven; then we can experience Heaven.

http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=9389
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/02/100209191445.htm

Tibet’s climate is dangerously warming

With data that was recorded across 29 observatories, including the base of Mount Everest, China’s Meteorological Administration reported that 2009 temperatures were the warmest on record and that precipitation was the lowest in nearly 40 years.

Saying that the Tibet Autonomous Region is particularly vulnerable to climate change effects, Zheng Guoguang, head of China’s Meteorological Administration stated, “The impact of global warming has accelerated glacial shrinkage and the melting glaciers have swollen Tibet’s lakes... If the warming continues, millions of people … would face floods in the short term and drought in the long run.”

Many thanks Mr. Zheng and China’s Meteorological Administration, for these factual observations that highlight our global predicament. As we pray for the safety of people in Tibet’s Autonomous Region and beyond, let us all hasten our efforts to restore the ecosphere.

As on previous occasions, Supreme Master Ching Hai spoke with concern of the rising toll of climate change during an October 2009 videoconference in Hong Kong, along with the actions needed to avert a planetary crisis.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Tens of thousands of lakes and rivers throughout the world are drying out now due to global warming and glaciers melting. It is thus only a matter of time Knowing this, it would be best if we adopt the lifestyle that will restore the stability of our environment and benefit all beings in the world, which surely is the compassionate way of life, beginning with a vegan diet – no animal products.

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/TOE61402P.htm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/feb/05/tibet-warming-china

Commercial fishing endangers dolphins, porpoises and whales

The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has released a report cautioning of the significant risk to these marine mammals especially by large-scale fishing operations.

The study stated that 86% of all toothed-whale cetaceans are seriously threatened by entanglement or capture in gillnets, driftnets, trawls and other types of fishing gear.

As an example, the scientists cited China’s Baiji River Dolphin, which has not been sighted for many years in the Yangtze River, as well as the Vaquita porpoise residing in the northern Gulf of California, whose population has diminished to only 150 remaining in the wild. Both of these species have perished in high numbers due to entanglements in fishing gear.

UNEP Executive Secretary Elizabeth Mrema stated that governments need to increase their efforts to implement protective policies for the survival of the cetacean species.

Our earnest appreciation United Nations Environment Program for revealing the impact of fishing’s detrimental practices on our unique marine mammal friends. May all countries join in acting now to protect the lives of these and all precious fellow beings.

In her tireless endeavors to ensure the welfare of the Earth’s inhabitants, Supreme Master Ching Hai has often emphasized the need to halt fishing, as during a November 2008 interview with Ireland’s East Coast Radio FM.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We have to stop it. Just stop the fishing. The government has to forbid fishing because it’s too important to our survival to delay any further.

Not only is there overfishing and depleting of marine life, but there is also side killing. Like when the commercial long liners go fishing, they’re killing tens of thousands of sea turtles, by the way, and hundreds of thousands of sea birds and millions of sharks every year.

To stop this destructive practice of fishing, the solution is the vegan diet, no fishy stuff in our meals. The sea offers us plenty of better food choices; the wide varieties of super healthy and nutritious sea plants.

We can even live on it forever. We must protect a living and healthy sea, as it relates to our living and healthy self.

http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=33677&Cr=unep&Cr1=
http://www.physorg.com/news184500664.html
http://www.cms.int/reports/small_cetaceans/general_summary.htm
http://www.answers.com/topic/odontocetes

Concerns mount over Arctic ice

New satellite data by the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shown that the melt season for Arctic sea ice is now 20 days longer than three decades ago, extending further into both April and September.

Dr. Thorsten Markus of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center highlighted the importance of these earlier melt onset and later freeze dates, due to their immense effect on ecosystems.

The reduced ice cover also means a larger open water area to absorb more heat from the sun, creating even more warming in a cycle that could have a profound effect on global climate.

Moreover, recent first-hand observations by Dr. David Barber of Canada’s University of Manitoba indicate that the situation is even more dire than could be perceived by satellite.

Dr. Barber stated, “Unfortunately, what we found was that the multi-year (ice) has all but disappeared. What's left is this remnant, rotten ice.” Drs. Markus and Barber as well as all participating National Aeronautics and Space Administration and University of Manitoba scientists, we are grateful for your factual observations despite their alarming implications.

Let us all heed the message conveyed by the vanishing Arctic and act quickly to protect the planet for ourselves and our children. With deep concern, Supreme Master Ching Hai has often spoken of the polar ice melt phenomenon, along with a way to halt it, as in an October 2009 videoconference in Germany.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: With melting that has caused the biggest ice loss ever known in the Arctic, scientists now tell us that the region is warming at the rate twice as fast as the rest of the world.

Many researchers are saying that at the rate of current warming, there is almost no way for our world to stay within the limits of a 2 degree Celsius temperature rise, which is the maximum that will still ensure the safety of most life on the planet. But even though our predicament is very grave, we do still have time if we act now. And the solution is still very simple.

It’s the vegan diet – no animal products. This is the key. If everyone switches to this beneficial lifestyle, our planet will be cooled in no time, scientifically speaking and my promise.

http://www.physorg.com/news183836066.html
http://www.umanitoba.ca/about/barber.html
http://stn.nsc.gov.tw/view_detail.asp?doc_uid=0990116001&kind_no=A04
http://www.thestar.com/news/sciencetech/environment/article/732009---permanent-arctic-ice-vanishing#article

The World Day for the Abolition of Meat recognized around the world

On January 30, the second annual World Day for the Abolition of Meat was held in over 50 towns in nations across Europe, as well as South Africa, Bolivia, Brazil, USA and India. Let us join our correspondent at the Leicester Square in London, United Kingdom.

Supreme Master Television Correspondent, London, UK (F): World Day for the Abolition of Meat is a growing movement intended as a means of promoting the end of the slaughter of at least six million sentient beings globally every hour for the consumption of meat. And this figure does not include the fishing industry and other industries that produce animal products.

Older lady with glasses Participant, London, UK, Vegan (F): We’re trying to call for governments to instead be promoting vegan farming, not only not exploiting animals but also kinder to the land and environment and can feed more people on a smaller amount of land.

Handsome Man Participant, Vegan, London, UK (M): Cut back on meat that is consumed, not only for people’s health, but also for animals’ welfare.

VOICE: Our Association members also joined in this movement in Paris, France and Rome, Italy.

Supreme Master Television Correspondent, Rome, Italy (F): Viewers of Supreme Master Television, we’re here in Rome for the World Day for the Abolition of Meat.

Participant, Rome, Italy (F): Maybe governments are starting to be more sensitive and even the media has started talking about the problem of meat eating and its impact on the environment and on the planet.

Supreme Master Television Correspondent, Paris, France (M): I am standing here, in front of the Opéra De La Bastille in Paris. There are a lot of stalls and people who have come as well and vegan food being offered for tasting.

Student, but a bit gothic-looking Participant, Opéra De La Bastille, Paris, France(f): People should realize that there is something on their plates, something that has feelings.

Participant, Opéra De La Bastille, Paris, France(f): My message above all, is to stop subsidizing livestock; it is an economical waste. We all know that livestock is one of the main causes of pollution. So we really have to stop eating meat.

VOICE: Hats off, global participants of the World Day for the Abolition of Meat, for your noble initiatives! May the world soon choose vegan to herald a Golden Era of harmony for all beings.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has long called on a global shift to the vegan diet for our planetary welfare, as during an interview published in the September 2009 edition of The House Magazine.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We raise and slaughter billions of animals per year! We can’t stop the climate change with all this methane heating our planet and in turn heating the Arctic.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: I wish I could find another solution, but all the evidence doesn’t favor any other solution except the vegan diet We have only a few years now, and we don’t know what comes yet even.

Be green is just by the way. Be veg is the only, the main, the 90% solution. CO2 is not the main problem, it’s not our main problem. Methane is! Nitrous oxide is! These all come from animal products, and these are the ones that heat up the planet, and fast, hundred times, or 60, 100 times more than CO2.

http://www.nomoremeat.org/

Seven-foot sea level rises ‘inevitable’

Authors Orrin Pilkey and Rob Young have written a book called “The Rising Sea” that forecasts much higher sea levels than previously suggested. Dr. Pilkey is Professor emeritus at Duke University in the USA and Dr. Young is Professor of geosciences at Western Carolina University. Through their combined expertise, they point out, for instance, that although the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimated a two-foot rise by the end of the century, this did not include ice melt from Greenland or the Antarctic.

Moreover, in the two years since the IPCC report was released, increasing evidence points to accelerating melt in both those locations, with many climate scientists now saying that the melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet will be one of the main drivers of sea level rise during this century.

Drs. Pilkey and Young go on to state that the ramifications of rising oceans are enormous: Agriculture will be disrupted, water supplies salinized, storms and flood waters will reach ever further inland, along with the creation of millions of environmental refugees.

Drs. Pilkey and Young, our thanks for this updated forecast, despite its dire implications. May governments realize the gravity of lobal warming and act now to save our planet.

During a March 2009 videoconference for the Juice Fast for Peace in California, USA, Supreme Master Ching Hai addressed the emerging crisis of rising sea levels, highlighting the most effective and indeed only solution.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Where are we going with this kind of rising levels? Even if we dig a hole… Nowadays, they have something like the tube ready for you, like a room, and then you can put it in the earth to protect yourself from climate change, from gases and all that, but how can we protect ourselves in this case when the sea level rises 70 meters and buries everything in its wake? And no more food, no more agriculture, nothing! No animals even to eat. Even if we want to eat meat, there will be nothing left for us. We have to change to a vegan diet, animal-free diet. Animal industry must be out. That’s it.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/jan/15/sea-level-climate-change
http://islandpress.org/bookstore/details.php?prod_id=1760

Former Miss World Irish celebrity promotes veg solution in campaign with Supreme Master Television

With time running out to save the planet from irreversible climate change, a new public service announcement campaign has been launched throughout the Republic of Ireland, promoting veganism as global warming’s most effective solution. Irish top veg model and Miss World 2003 Ms. Rosanna Davison collaborated with Supreme Master Television to produce the series of video as well as print advertisements.

Ms. Davison, daughter of the world famous Irish singer-songwriter Chris de Burgh, reveals the secret to her picture perfect image of radiant health.

Rosanna Davison (F): Hi I'm Rosanna Davison and I'm a vegetarian. I get all the nutrition I need from a plant-based diet. According to the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency Report, 80% of the cost of climate change can be avoided if we adopt a plant-based animal free diet. With the world in financial turmoil, this is a great way to save your hard earned money and also benefit the environment.

VOICE: A vegetarian since childhood and up to the time of filming, Ms. Davison became a vegan through working with Supreme Master Television and learning about the harmful effects of meat production and consumption in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, health, and care for all beings.

Rosanna Davison (F): Yumm... Veggie chicken! Cruelty-free, a whole lot better for your health, easy to cook, and it tastes amazing!

VOICE: The announcements appear on the major television channels TV3 and 3E airing on the Sky TV network in Ireland. Their print counterparts appear on five large posters around Dublin, in every carriage of the Luas, the capital’s light rail tram system, and on the buses of Ireland’s four largest cities, Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway.

Rosanna Davison (F): To learn more about the healthy, compassionate vegetarian diet, Supreme Master Television, SKY channel 835.

VOICE: You are beautiful inside and out, Rosanna! Our kudos and thanks for the noble choices you’ve made in being vegan and encouraging others to do the same. May the heroic people of Ireland and beyond join the loving veg trend to save the planet.

http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=17547&channel=0&
title=Former+miss+world+backs+veganism+for+climate+change

Trees absorb less carbon as climate warms

A new study by the University of Colorado at Boulder in the USA indicates that forests actually soak up less CO2 in longer, warmer growing seasons. Contrary to what was previously understood, this new research shows that decreased snowpack associated with climate change causes a corresponding decrease
in CO2 absorption by sub-alpine forests.

In analyzing the water content of the stems and needles of trees, the researchers found that even as late as September and October, 60% of the moisture contained in the trees could be traced back to spring snow melt.

As noted by evolutionary biology professor Russell Monson, “Snow is much more effective than rain in delivering water to these forests.

If a warmer climate brings more rain, this won't offset the carbon uptake potential being lost due to declining snowpacks.” Professor Monson and fellow University of Colorado at Boulder scientists, many thanks for these detailed findings about the intricacies of water and carbon absorption in the forests.

Let us act now to preserve the delicate balance of life on our planet. Supreme Master Ching Hai has long emphasized the need for prayer and compassionate living to overcome the dangerous impacts of global warming, as in this August 2009 videoconference with Supreme Master Television staff.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Even living forests, alive forests, if the atmosphere is too hot, the forests also cannot absorb CO2 and they could even release CO2 themselves as well.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We just need to be patient, and praying a lot, praying a lot to all the gods and goddesses, all the divine beings, all the angels, to manifest themselves physically onto this planet and help each and every citizen of the world to awaken to a compassionate lifestyle so that they can escape from this planetary climate change.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: There’s only one escape route that I have told you already Be Veg. That’s the path to go, then maybe we still can have time.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100107183136.htm

Recovery of coral reefs linked to healthy fish

A study by the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom indicates that coral reefs damaged by climate change can recover. Over a two-and-a-half year time period, the scientists evaluated reefs at 10 sites throughout the Bahamas that had been severely damaged, first by acidification and bleaching and then by a devastating hurricane in 2004.

The study showed that coral reefs located within marine reserves had increased in growth by an average of 19%, while reefs in non-reserve sites showed no recovery.

This finding does not bode well for reef recovery as only about 2% of the world's coral reefs are located within marine reserves that are protected against damaging activities like fishing.

Lead study scientist, Professor Peter Mumby explained that certain marine life like parrotfish eat seaweed, which then allows the corals to grow freely and that governments should thus consider expanding the protected areas. He explained: “In order to protect reefs in the long-term we need radical action to reduce CO2 emissions.

However, our research shows that local action to reduce the effects of fishing can contribute meaningfully to the fate of (the) reefs.” Professor Mumby and University of Exeter researchers, you have our heartfelt thanks for your encouraging findings. May governments and individuals alike join in sustainable actions to save our precious marine environments.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has frequently spoken of the need to preserve Earth’s biodiversity, as in an interview published in the September 2009 edition of the British Parliament's The House Magazine.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: No matter how small, each species has a role to help balance our ecosystem, scientifically proven. And yet, consumption of both fish and animal flesh continue and are wreaking havoc on biodiversity around the globe.

In the oceans and fresh waterways, so many species of fish have already been lost, with complete aquatic environments such as coral reefs being decimated by such practices as trawling and fishing with explosives.

The answer to all of this is quite clear. Stop the meat consumption. Stop it yesterday. This will allow biodiversity to be replenished. This is the way we need to go, and fast.

http://www.physorg.com/news182237863.html
http://news.mongabay.com/2010/0110-hance_coralrecover.html

Melting tundra releases immense carbon stores

A study recently conducted by Dr. Sofia Hjalmarsson of the Department of Chemistry at Sweden’s University of Gothenburg found that the permafrost layer stretching across the vast reaches of the Arctic contains an additional global warming hazard.

Besides the melting of methane hydrate crystals, which have already been observed as gaseous bubbles rising from an increasing number of Siberian lakes and other water bodies, the thawing tundra also releases stored carbon.

Dr. Hjalmarsson’s studies of the Laptev, East Siberian and Chukchi Seas of north Siberia as well as the Baltic Sea revealed elevated carbon dioxide levels in all of them, meaning that organic carbon released from the permafrost is being carried by the rivers out into the coastal waters.

Dr. Hjalmarsson warned that the danger of the permafrost thawing is that it cannot be stopped once it advances beyond a certain stage, meaning that the melting of the vast carbon stores must be stopped now.

Our appreciation, Dr. Sofia Hjalmarsson for this important research showing the ever-increasing dangers of global warming. May findings as these spur us all toward sustainable practices such as the Earth-saving vegan diet. During an international gathering with our Association members in February 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai spoke of toxic gases such as methane being released with atmospheric warming, as she urged for the solution that addresses the root cause.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: You see, the gases are fuming from the ocean and from the land that’s been defrosting. It’s fuming everywhere. It’s just that at the moment, it’s not so intense.

Everybody knows by now, from the UN report that meat eating, animal raising, it’s one of the worst factors, or even the worst factor of global warming. And nobody talks about it.

Everybody says, new energy, biofuel, hybrid car, dig a hole and store the carbon.” As if it will not bust one day. And before that you have to breathe in already, as if will not affect you.

What is so difficult, to put down one piece of meat, and replace it with one piece of tofu? Which is exactly the same, better nutrition. Better for your health. More economized.

http://www.physorg.com/news182430651.html
http://www.alphagalileo.org/ViewItem.aspx?ItemId=65756&CultureCode=en
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Tundra-Meltdown-Triggers-Carbon-Spills-131761.shtml

The changing tides and lives in the Sundarbands.

A photography exhibit in London, England by photographer Peter Canton and field partner Cris Aoki Watanabe documents the devastation of climate change on one of the most impacted areas of the world – the low-lying Sundarbans in India’s Ganges delta.

The Sundarbans, which means “beautiful forest” in Bengali, have long been considered a region of ecological and cultural importance. However, the photographers were shocked to see the ruins that Cyclone Aila had inflicted in May 2009, as they also documented the increasingly higher water levels and more intense storms.

Families are continually displaced as they have to relocate to shelters at every coming catastrophe.

Livelihoods are at dire stakes with the encroaching salt water contaminating their rice paddies, which renders them useless for the next three years.

With the people’s lifestyles considered to leave one of the lightest carbon footprints, the photojournalists’ exhibit highlights the suffering inflicted by climate change that is wreaking havoc on the isolated and poor.

A resident grieves: “The water level is increasing and the temperature too. We cannot live here, the heat is becoming unbearable. We have received a plastic sheet and have covered our home with it. During the coming monsoon we shall wrap our bodies in the plastic to stay dry. We also have two children and we cannot manage their food either.”

Our hearts are saddened to know of our brethren suffering through the demise of their communities and our planet. May we quickly change our ways and hearts in consideration for our co-inhabitants and the environment. In an October 2009 videoconference in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai spoke with concern for all Earth’s residents afflicted by global warming, urging citizens and world leaders to help halt these calamitous changes.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We also do not forget all the islands and other countries who are submerging or sinking or disappearing or disappeared because of climate change. My heart is troubled every day, thinking of all these innocent people and all the defenseless animals who have to suffer in this great upheaval we call climate change.

But we still have time. We could not reverse the effect of climate change in the past. Whatever happened due to typhoons and floods and earthquakes, etc.,

we could not reverse the effect. But we could stop future disasters by returning to the compassionate vegan diet and encouraging others to do the same. The government has the power to do this. I beg all the governments of the world, please, do this before it’s too late, for the sake of your citizens and your own children as well.

http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/climate-change/the-sinking-sundarbans-
1862267.html?action=Popup
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/climate-change/the-sinking-sundarbans-1862267.html

Meat consumption drives rainforest destruction and global warming

A report recently issued by the Earth Policy Institute provides an in-depth look at global trends relating to soybean yields as well as revealing the link to destruction of tropical rainforests. First grown by farmers in China some 3,000 years ago, soy is now one of the world’s dominant crops, going from 17 million tons to 250 million tons in just 50 years, representing a 14-fold increased in yields.

However, the report states that only about 30% of soybeans are consumed directly by humans with some 70% being processed for consumption by livestock and poultry.

And as new acreage is carved out of the Amazon and other countries like Honduras and Paraguay, vast amounts of carbon are released from both the areas cleared for soybeans and the livestock that consumes them.

Currently, Brazil is the world’s second largest producer of soybeans, with countries like China importing 75% of the 55 million tons consumed primarily by livestock in that country.

The Earth Policy Institute report concludes that saving the rainforests depends on reducing demand for soybeans and thus eating more plant-based foods.

Our heartfelt thanks Earth Policy Institute for calling our attention to the connection between meat consumption and the demise of our irreplaceable rainforests.

May we all act now to save both the trees and the planet by adopting the sustainable vegan diet. In an interview published in the September 2009 edition of The House Magazine, Supreme Master Ching Hai again addressed such tolls of the livestock industry along with the most direct way to protect the rainforest and our ecosphere.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: On land, meat consumption is responsible for vast regions being cleared for grazing crops that are fed to livestock. One example is seen in the deforested Amazon areas that have gone from lush forest to bare fields used for cattle grazing or primarily animal feed crops.

With these activities essentially robbing our biodiversity, there has been an alarming rise in the disappearance of plants and animals. And one of the most comprehensive studies ever conducted in the field is now forecasting that over a million species will be lost in the coming 50 years.

The answer to all of this is quite clear. Stop the meat consumption. Stop it yesterday. This will eliminate the so-called need for livestock raising, which will immediately return immense amounts of land to natural sustainability or to natural growing methods that allow biodiversity to be replenished. This is the way we need to go, and fast.

http://www.earthpolicy.org/index.php?/plan_b_updates/2009/update86

Current emission goals put world on path for 3 degree temperature rise

Using a combination of scientific sources, the United Kingdom’s Guardian newspaper presented an overview of the effects of different global temperature increases. Starting with the minimum, it reported that an average rise of 1 degree Celsius is viewed as ideal and would ensure the survival of island nations such as Tuvalu. However, since this goal is considered impossible by many, scientists have called for a more realistic average increase of 2 degrees, which would still bring heat waves such as the one that cost tens of thousands of lives in Europe in 2003 as well as the collapse of Western Antarctica, leading to still-rising seas.

However, adding another degree for a 3-degree total temperature rise, which is forecast if nations continue with current emission reduction commitments only, could push global warming out of control, with billions of people forced to leave their lands. Without any mitigation whatsoever, researchers point to a 5 or more degree rise, which would drastically impact human populations.

Many thanks, scientists, journalists and Guardian newspaper for this informative overview, despite its alarming scenarios. Let us act in unity to create the safest and most planet-cooling future for ourselves and our children. As on many occasions, Supreme Master Ching Hai spoke with concern during an October 2009 videoconference in Hong Kong about the devastating effects of global warming, also suggesting the fastest sustainable solution.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: A lot of the ecological and environmental news today is not very good due to the effects of global warming. We hear about glaciers melting, water becoming more scarce, rising food shortages, rising food prices with over one billion people going hungry every day, animals becoming extinct and many species gone forever and so on and so forth.

But even though our time is running out, we do still have time to save this beautiful planet and restore it to its original splendor, or even more so if all turn to the vegan diet.

As it has already been mentioned, recent research shows that more than 50% of emissions which heat up our planet, which put our lives in danger, which put our world into the perilous situation of mass extinction, are from the livestock industry.

The solution is at hand for each and every one of us, which is simply to forego animal products and become vegan – one small change; it’s no big deal.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/dec/18/copenhagen-five-climate-scenarios

Fish farming destroys marine wildlife

The Norwegian Food Safety Authority has reported a dramatic rise in sea louse, a parasite that infects salmon, is causing great concern in Norway as its populations triple in the crowded fish farms of the Norwegian fjords over the past year alone. Besides killing the farmed fish, environmentalists fear that this organism will further decimate already weakened wild salmon whose numbers have been reduced by half in the past decades.

Meanwhile, a 23-year Finnish study has concluded that lethal strains of the bacteria Columnaris have developed in the confined conditions of ocean fish farms. This infection destroys the skin, fins, and gills of fish and is currently the leading cause of their death. With infected farmed fish that sometimes escape or are let loose by fish farmers who wish to avoid fines and costly clean-up, wild fish are thus being subjected to an increasing number of virulent diseases that originate from factory farms.

Norwegian Food Safety Authority, we appreciate and share your concern for the well-being of wild fish and ocean life. May we all realize the damaging nature of meat and fish consumption and opt quickly for the life-enhancing vegan diet.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has often spoken of the tolls endured by the Earth’s animal inhabitants, addressing our need to halt the devastating practice of fishing as during a November 2008 interview with Ireland’s East Coast Radio FM.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We have to stop it. Just stop the fishing. The government has to forbid fishing because it’s too important to our survival to delay any further. To stop this destructive practice of fishing, the solution is the vegan diet, no fishy stuff in our meals. The sea offers us plenty of better food choices; the wide varieties of super healthy and nutritious sea plants. We can even live on it forever. We must protect a living and healthy sea, as it relates to our living and healthy self.

http://www.naturalnews.com/027809_farmed_fish_disease.html
http://www.wildforsalmon.com/aboutscokeye.html
http://users.jyu.fi/~pukaan/
http://www.france24.com/en/node/4955477
http://www.redorbit.com/news/science/1803174/norwegian_salmon_affected_by_lice/

Warming temperatures linked to oceanic dead zones

Researchers from Oregon State University recently published results of studies evaluating the occurrence of hypoxia, or extremely low levels of oxygen, that occur in the oceans.

Although such regions were previously unknown to central Oregon, these “dead zones” now appear annually, with the low levels of oxygen causing a massive die-off of marine life including fish and invertebrates such as crabs.

Unlike the dead zones already found in the coastal Mississippi Delta and other areas, which can be traced to runoff from livestock manure and fertilizers, the hypoxic regions off the Oregon coast occur in the open ocean.

In studying ancient sea sediment, the scientists found that such dead zones also occurred about 20,000 years ago during a rapid warming of the Antarctic similar to what the Earth is experiencing now, as wind and water circulation was affected globally.

Oregon State researchers, we are grateful for your work that adds to our growing knowledge about the dangers of a warming planet. We pray for lifestyles leading to the well-being of all life in our shared ecosphere.

As she has in earlier times, Supreme Master Ching Hai indicated in a June 2008 videoconference in Formosa (Taiwan) the proper action that is needed to avoid even larger-scale devastation than the ocean dead zones.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Stock raising, animal breeding, is the #1 cause of damage to our planet and it is going to destroy our world if we do not stop. I really mean it. We have to stop this. We have to stop the killing. We have to stop the meat eating. We have to stop insecticides. We have to go organic. And vegetarian is a must. Otherwise, there will not be just the dead zones in the ocean.

I repeat: Otherwise, if we don’t do anything now, if we don’t be veg and we don’t stop polluting our planet in many ways, then there will not be just the dead zones in the ocean. There will a dead planet. And we also will be dead beings, too. Vegan diet will save the planet. The fastest and the easiest, and everyone can do it.

http://www.physorg.com/news180096546.html
http://surfchecker.wordpress.com/category/pacific-northwest/

World media highlights veg solution to climate change

In their coverage of the major United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, international media groups discussed the vegan diet as providing the most effective and rapid solution to the planetary crisis. A number of journalists from newspapers, radio and television networks present during the two-week summit interviewed members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association to understand more about the reasons that livestock must be addressed and why a change in what humans consume is so vital.

Environmental journalist Jeff McMahon of True/Slant, an online news network in partnership with Forbes Media wrote:“But during the first week, the most persistent… at the Bella Center have been the smiling followers of Supreme Master Ching Hai, sometimes clad in chicken suits… with signs urging vegetarianism.

The article went on to quote one of our Association members, who stated:“‘We have only a short time to save the planet. Technology takes a long time and needs a lot of money and this is the easiest way. Everyone must be vegan to save the planet.’”

VOICE: On the website of internationally-distributed The Wall Street Journal daily news, reporter Spencer Swartz discussed the hot issues tied to meat consumption in his article titled, “Veggie Tales: Climate Activists Urge Meat-Free Lifestyle in Copenhagen.”“…an army of about 100 people have been regulars at the U.N.’s
two-week climate change conference, passing out vegetarian sandwiches to delegates daily and carrying placards calling livestock farms ‘an environmental hazard’ and to ‘Go Veg’… Reduced meat consumption, if done on a big scale, could even prompt landowners in Brazil, the world’s biggest soya producer, to stop clearing rain forest to grow soya bean, which cattle-owners often feed their livestock to beef them up…”

VOICE: In the cover story of its December 21 issue, the major South Korean weekly news magazine, “Hankyoreh 21,” (HAN-Gyuh-Reh 21) captioned a photograph of our Association members as follows: “The way to reduce greenhouse gas is already on the signs of environmental activists who had gathered in Copenhagen, Denmark.” Citing Supreme Master Television as a source of the newest research findings on the meat industry’s abuse of resources, the magazine went on to conclude that with time, “The vegetarian diet may no longer be a preference or choice, but survival itself.”

We thank the journalists, True/Slant, The Wall Street Journal, Hankyoreh21, and all media who bring to the public information about climate change and the most important countermeasure of halting meat production.
May more people join the growing ranks of conscious citizens who opt for the Earth-saving vegan diet.In an interview with the Irish Sunday Independent published in July 2009, Supreme Master Ching Hai once more expressed her appreciation to the media, who are in the indispensable role of alerting society to both planetary problems and solutions.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: So, with the vegan diet, we eat what’s best for our health, for the animals, for the environment, and nature will do the rest to restore the balance and save our world. I thank you for such noble journalism as you are upholding, because we really need the media to propagate the new noble lifestyle to save our planet. And I thank you manifold for doing that. Thank you truly from my heart.

http://trueslant.com/jeffmcmahon/2009/12/11/copenhagen-vegetarianism/
http://blogs.wsj.com/environmentalcapital/2009/12/16/veggie-tales-climate-activists-urge-meat-free-lifestyle-in-copenhagen/

Solution in agriculture discussed at climate conference

In seeking their final agreement, delegates at the United Nations Climate Change Conference turned to the existing Kyoto Protocol and spoke of maintaining its terms to offer additional time for a broader accord.
Supreme Master Television’s correspondent tells us more, with a special report on the factor of agriculture.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: As negotiators continued to spend long hours in intense discussion, one area considered essential is a commitment from industrialized countries to support developing nations in achieving emission reductions as well as adapting to the more immediate effects of global warming.

José Manuel Barroso – President of European Commission (M): This conference is very important from an environment and development point of view, but it is also a question of moral responsibility and the first test case for the global community.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: One significant issue discussed at the summit is agriculture. Animal agriculture is a main driver of global warming.

Maude Barlow – Chair of Council of Canadians, Food & Water Watch Board chair, Former United Nations senior advisor on water (F): Industrial agriculture is the biggest culprit.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: Livestock raising also strains water and food grain supplies in a world where global warming is worsening hunger.

Ancha Srinivasan - Senior Climate Change Specialist, Asia Development Bank (M): To grow animals and then to be eaten by human beings consumes a lot of resources. It is almost like 10 times or even sometimes more.

Jens Holm – Former European Parliament Member, Vegetarian (M): Governments of the world should take away all the subsidies that today goes to the meat industry.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: But as delegates such as US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack pointed out:

Tom Vilsack – US Secretary of Agriculture (M): While agriculture has always been conceived as part of the emissions problem, it is a significant part of the solution to climate change.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: During the Copenhagen summit, one vital way that has been proposed is to encourage farmers to adopt more sustainable practices, such as no-till agriculture that absorbs huge volumes of emissions.

Maude Barlow (F): One of the huge answers to our global crisis is more sustainable, local, safer food production, and obviously a deep reduction in the consumption of meat.

Ancha Srinivasan - Senior Climate Change Specialist, Asia Development Bank (M): People should go for organic farming as well as the vegetarian diet.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: According to a major UK government-supported report published in The Lancet, trying to capture the methane emitted by ruminant cattle, or using feed crops that would produce less methane simply won’t do enough, nor fast enough to stop temperature rises that endanger human lives. But food policy to reduce meat consumption could. Professor Sir Andrew Haines who headed the research team explained.

Professor Sir Andrew Haines, M.D. – Director, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (M): Could it all be done just by improving technology of farming, better manure management, more efficient use of feed stocks and so on? We concluded that would be not sufficient.

Many of the projections do suggest that we may be nearing the point of not being able to keep the increase in temperature down to 2 degrees. So the kind of trajectory we're on at the moment suggests that we may well breach that unless we take radical action.

Jens Holm – Former European Parliament Member, Vegetarian (M): Be vegetarian; yes, that’s by far the best you can do.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: A vegan diet and organic vegan farming – It’s in deed the fastest, least expensive way to halt global warming. This is Supreme Master Television, Copenhagen, Denmark.

VOICE: We thank the leaders and experts who have been working diligently for the benefit of the world's co-citizens. May all wise governments act swiftly towards an organic plant-based food policy to ensure the survival and wellbeing of humankind and the planet.

With foresight about the fragile future of agriculture, Supreme Master Ching Hai has long advocated such practices as organic vegan farming to mitigate global warming, as in this November 2009 climate change conference in Washington, DC, USA.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: The government could of course redirect billions of dollars now spent on livestock subsidies to help farmers switch to organic vegetable and fruit agriculture.

The government could use its powerful tools to spread campaigns about veg alternatives, bans on meat, and laws to help people switch to organic vegan farming and consumption.

A global switch to a veg diet would even save the world’s governments a lot of money, as much as 80% of all the climate mitigation costs of US$40 trillion by year 2050.

That is, we save US$32 trillion in climate mitigation costs, and having a healthy vegan population is a good business deal! Furthermore, there is very good reason for the government to abolish meat, fish, eggs and dairy, all the animal products all together.

We must stop animal production now and at all costs if we want to keep this planet. I repeat: We must stop animal product right now and at all costs if we want to keep this planet.

http://en.cop15.dk/news/view+news?newsid=3041
http://en.cop15.dk/news/view+news?newsid=3042
http://en.cop15.dk/news/view+news?newsid=3039
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-12/15/content_12652906.htm
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article6283681.ece

Climate hazards of meat considered in Copenhagen

As heads of state convene in the final days of the Copenhagen Climate Conference, decisions have been forming on main issues that include industrialized countries' greenhouse gas reduction goals and financial assistance to developing nations for adapting to global warming.

Also at the summit, a side event hosted by the Dutch government called the Holland Climate House featured relevant public presentations such as “Meat: How Far Can Governments Go in Influencing Lifestyles?” Supreme Master Television’s correspondent in Denmark tells us more.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: The session was chaired by Dr. Maarten Hajer of the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, who stated, “Current meat consumption patterns in industrialized countries are unsustainable from both a land use and a climate perspective.”

Further supporting this concept are results from a Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency study, which has estimated that 80% of the costs for addressing climate change could be eliminated if humans switch to a plant-based diet.

We also asked some of the public officials at the Copenhagen Climate Summit for Mayors for their thoughts on the government’s role in facilitating planet-cooling veg lifestyles.

Shri Rakesh Mehta - Chief Secretary of Delhi, India (M): It is now medically proven that a herbivorous diet is certainly healthier than a carnivorous diet. Even now the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report has brought out that cattle growing is one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gases.

So therefore, both from the health and the sustainability point of view, a vegetarian diet is certainly better.
Honorable Ritt Bjerregaard – Lord Mayor of Copenhagen, Denmark: We have a program, especially for the schools, where we try to be ecological. We are heading towards 80% of ecological food and use very many vegetables and a lot of fruits. So I hope that we will give our children good habits.

Supreme Master Television COP15 Correspondent: It seems many of the summit participants are more readily accepting the healthier, eco-friendly vegan lifestyle, based on what we're hearing from members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, who have been actively promoting the veg diet at the venue.

Tens of thousands of SOS information bags and free vegan sandwiches have been received with much interest. Of the police officers who have been monitoring the event’s activities, over a dozen have asked for materials, with one officer openly expressing his plan to become a vegan.
In addition, the COP15 Post, the widely read newspaper covering the conference,has been publishing announcements featuring excerpts from interviews and videoconferences with Supreme Master Ching Hai.
The most recent article appears in the COP15 Post on December 18. From Copenhagen, Denmark, reporting for Supreme Master Television.

VOICE: Our sincere thanks, Dr. Hajer, Honorable Mayors, and all leaders for your caring participation in this forum on the important topic of ways to achieve much-needed veg communities to save our planet.
May this simple, effective climate- and life-saving solution be assimilated by decision-makers at Copenhagen and beyond. The COP15 Post announcement on the veg solution to climate change is available for free pdf download at www.cop15post.com.

In a November 2009 videoconference in Mexico, Supreme Master Ching Hai explained how government leadership can be highly beneficial to society in realizing a safer world.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: A good leader stops what is bad for the people, and facilitates what is good for them. They can facilitate, namely, through public campaigns, the media, and schools to inform about the benefits of the healthy, lives-saving, planet-saving way of life. The governments of the world have the power to make the veg trend an exciting movement for everyone toward a healthier lifestyle.

Studies show that the smoking bans actually helped people to quit smoking. And the quitters were happier because of the ban, because they know that their habit was bad for them. Similarly, a ban on meat, which we all now know from the studies is a very bad habit, which kills us and our children, our loved ones, and it’s killing our planet. So a ban of meat will be a strong current to carry the trend toward a vegan world.

http://www.kk.dk/climatesummitformayors.aspx
http://www.pbl.nl/cop15/side-events/meat-how-far-can-governments-go-in-influencing-lifestyles/
http://blog.climatesquad.org.uk/cop15-what-a-difference-a-day-makes
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/environment/news/article.cfm?c_id=39&objectid=10615784
http://home.medewerker.uva.nl/m.a.hajer/

Climate change conference is about saving lives

During their meetings and negotiations, global decision-makers at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark have been keenly aware that in the end, human lives are at stake.
Supreme Master Television’s correspondent reports.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): Over the weekend, churches in more than one dozen countries including here in Copenhagen (gesture to cathedral behind reporter) symbolically rang their bells 350 times at 3 pm to highlight the importance of bringing atmospheric CO2 levels to the relatively safe levels of 350 parts per million.

A 2-degree temperature rise is another way to describe a global warming limit considered in the acceptable range by leaders. However, in a press conference on Saturday, scientists from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) cautioned that much deeper emission reduction goals are needed to even meet this limit, and that a 2-degree temperature rise could still raise sea levels by up to 1.4 meters.

Addressing the delegates, Tuvalu’s lead negotiator Ian Fry translated this reality into human terms, reminding that entire nations are at risk of being lost without adequate action.

Ian Fry – Tuvalu delegate to UN Climate Change Conference (M): Pacific island countries, all the least developed countries, and millions of other people around this world are affected enormously by climate change.
I woke this morning, and I was crying, and that's not easy for a grown man to admit. The fate of my country rests in your hands. Thank you.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): Not only vulnerable countries, but the children of every nation are also at grave risk, for their lives and their future. A special film was presented to all government delegates and media depicting the nightmare of a six-year-old girl as she ran from the disasters of climate change. The youth choir singing for the film also conveyed their message of hope and nature’s preciousness to the assembly.

VOICE: The younger generation care deeply about our future. Just before the climate summit, 160 youth delegates from 42 countries gathered in Denmark for the Children’s Climate Forum Copenhagen 2009, organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Youth representative from Maldives (M): We want to show the world that beware, we care. That's our message. Together they made a declaration of recommendations that were presented to the climate conference leaders.

Youth representative from Maldives (M): My message to the global leaders will go as a question. I will ask them: Are they ready to commit murder? Of course that's a very big word, that's very scary.

But because if they don't take action, if they don't bring any change, our country, 360,000 strong, plus another million from another country, and all the countries in the same state, we will all be wiped out.

We met with one bright young Danish representative who is also aware of the most important planet-cooling solution of being vegan.

Lea Backes – Danish delegate, UNICEF Children’s Climate Forum Copenhagen 2009, Vegan, age 15 (F): I’m a vegan because I think we need to treat animals right, and because animal raising is affecting the climate radically. And because I think that it’s not okay to kill when you can live based on plants.

I hope that many more people become vegetarians and vegans in the future, because it really will affect our planet, in a good way. Be veg, go green, save the planet.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): To spread the word about the urgent veg solution, our Association members have continued to distribute information packets to VIPs as well as to the participants and observers of the conference.

In addition to joining tens of thousands of people in a large peaceful march through the city, our Association members have also been invited to public presentations and workshops in related forums, as well as to interviews with international media including Danish Radio, Radio Radicale of Italy, Brazil-based Record Television, Radio Suisse Romand of Switzerland, Denmark's Radio P3, and the Internet-based Yourclimate TV.

Our Association member (M): …Major source of methane is livestock farming. So if we eat less meat, the climate and our health and the planet will be happy. This is Supreme Master Television reporting from Copenhagen, Denmark.

VOICE: We pray for the wise decisions of all leaders and climate change negotiators based on the best interests of people and the planet. Let us awaken now to the fastest, ever affordable solution of the vegan diet that will save our world and her inhabitants in time.

VOICE: In her steadfast plea to the world during a government-invited videoconference in November 2009 in Mexico, Supreme Master Ching Hai asked those concerned to pray for an enlightened leadership to steer the planet to safety.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: It’s just that we need to make the switch to the animal-free lifestyle now. Then everything will improve, life will be easier, and we can rest knowing that our children will have a future to look forward to. And I’m praying to all heavenly beings to help as well, to further accelerate the trend that we need, by manifesting themselves physically, to awaken the leaders, the media, the influential and ordinary citizens alike.

So that our planet won’t look like Mars in the near future. So, prayer, combined with the efforts of citizens, and the governments’ and media’s powerful support, this formula could bring the fastest and smoothest transition to a stable planet.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8410356.stm
http://news.yahoo.com/s/oneworld/20091213/wl_oneworld/world3683251260734225
http://www.newsvine.com/_news/2009/12/12/3623534-scientists-climate-talks-aim-too-low-for-target
http://www.kuna.net.kw/NewsAgenciesPublicSite/ArticleDetails.aspx?Language=en&id=2046566

United Nations Climate Change Conference enters second half of negotiations

Over the past week at the historic summit in Copenhagen, Denmark, discussions have focused on emission reductions and pledges of financial support for the more vulnerable countries, including those in Africa as well as small island nations. Let’s go to Supreme Master Television’s correspondenton location.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): European Union leaders have agreed to fund €7.2 billion over the next three years, including €2.4 billion each from Britain and France, and €1.6 billion from the United Kingdom.

The United States has also pledged assistance and participation.
Todd Stern – US Special Envoy on Climate Change (M): I think the United States will be prepared to be part of an overall solution that involves financial contribution, and that’s what I was referring to with respect to the US$10 billion which is also part of the statement that the White House put out announcing the President’s decision to come on December 18.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): As the conference goes into its second scheduled week, ministers are arriving who will be joined by about 110 world leaders in the final days on Thursday and Friday. Those involved are optimistic about a constructive outcome.

Stavros DIMAS – European Commissioner in charge of Environment (M): I strongly believe that we are going to be successful, because this is what common sense tells us. We have to listen to science; science is warning us.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): Meanwhile, over the weekend, tens of thousands of people gathered for a peaceful rally through the streets of Copenhagen, urging for bold actions to halt global warming.

About 4,000 other rallying events were held across the world, all calling for a strong, legally binding agreement from the summit. One group of citizens specifically highlighted the crucial need for the vegan solution in cooling the planet.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): We are here in front of the Town Hall, Copenhagen. The main purpose of this demonstration is to urge global political leaders to take action and to curb global warming, mainly by reducing its main cause –livestock farming, and to encourage the global population to adopt a compassionate vegan diet.

Interview with peter Fruitarian activist (M): I think it’s important to change our lifestyles to support our planet, our health, and to be compassionate toward animals and all living beings.

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): Our Association members also held attractive banners and distributed thousands of flyers promoting the simple, low-cost, universal way to reverse climate change.

Vegetarians, vegans, fruitarians, and others present eagerly participated in holding “Be veg” placards as they joined in the procession through the city.

Interview with american vegan Veg activist from USA (F): I came here to support global change and my first step was vegetarianism, and I’m here today holding a sign because I believe in this change.
Be veg, go green, save the planet!

Activist (M): Be veg, go green, save the planet!

Supreme Master Television Danish correspondent (M): This is Supreme Master Television, Copenhagen, Denmark.

VOICE: We send our gratitude and support to all the determined leaders whose cooperation and dedication the world depends on for a stable, livable future. May the urgently needed component of a vegan diet policy find a place in your successful agreement for a truly effective solution to climate change.As in the following gathering with our Association members in 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai has frequently affirmed the importance of large-scale government action in stopping meat consumption, the most flagrant climate change source.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: There is a solution, only three steps, no? Vegan, sustainable energy, plant trees. And the government has to say something, just like they ban the smoking. So it is banned, it is done. The same with the climate change policy. If they just do what they know is good, then it’s very quick. In no time we will recover, or we stop the effect.

No more greenhouse gas or methane gas from the animals. No more multiplying all the time. They just have to stop meat eating because it’s bad karma also. And every day we air all kind of, warning signs and warning evidence.

This is the only important thing right now. First you have to survive and then you can do anything else you want, but if you don’t survive, you don’t have the planet, what’s the use?

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20091212-701129.html
http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2329482

Animal agriculture affects global hunger

With the numbers of people facing hunger worldwide having risen to more a billion for the first time in history, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) released a white paper calling for reduced reliance on industrial animal agriculture and greater support instead for plant-based foods to provide nutrition for more people.

The report points out that with over 80% of all soy and up to 50% of corn already being fed to livestock, forecasts of animal product consumption doubling by 2050 means that livestock animals may soon be in competition with humans for food. Worse yet, livestock production is a major factor in global warming, which if continued will only intensify problems such as drought and extreme storms that are already threatening food security worldwide.

Our appreciation, Humane Society of the United States for this wise reminder that global hunger can be alleviated by the simple choice of plant-based foods.

May such research as yours lead us to swiftly adopt lifestyles that optimize the food supply for all.
In her dedication to ensure humanity’s wellbeing, Supreme Master Ching Hai has often warned of the major role of the livestock industry in world hunger, as during a January 2009 videoconference in Mongolia.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: Actually, we should not have to worry about food because we have it abundantly on our planet. It’s just that we have to use it wisely. Instead of using it to feed the animals, we use it to feed humans and that will be fine. We should remind everyone to be veg to invoke the mercy of the Buddhas, and we will be better protected.

Studies have shown that if the grain currently going to livestock animals for feed, if we feed it to humans, then all the hunger in the world will disappear and the reversal of global warming from a vegan diet will result in more plentiful growing conditions. So, we even have more food than now if we turn to vegan diet.

http://www.humanesociety.org/assets/pdfs/farm/hsus-the-impact-of-industrialized-animal-agriculture-on-world-hunger.pdf
http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=50669
http://www.humanesociety.org/news/publications/whitepapers/farm_animal_welfare.html

Copenhagen Diagnosis Report reveals dire planetary state

Released this past week just ahead of the Copenhagen climate conference, the report is authored by a group of 26 climate scientists, including 14 members of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Their prognosis is that climate destabilization is much worse and precipitously more rapid than previously thought.
The scientists observe that greenhouse gas emissions are still skyrocketing even as Arctic sea is melting 40% faster than had been forecast, and sea levels are already rising 80% more than previously predicted.

The scientists say that without a significant change in course, the planet is set to warm 7 degrees Celsius by 2100. Eminent scientists, we appreciate this important message to the international community.

Let us all take steps now to stabilize the ecosphere during this precious window of opportunity that is still available to us.Ever-concerned for our global welfare, Supreme Master Ching Hai has frequently called for the swiftest actions to reverse climate change, as during an October 2008 videoconference in Thailand.

Supreme Master Ching Hai: We must let people know it’s urgent now and it’s time to stop global crisis. Time is short and we must all act as one to save our world from disappearing, to save our lives, and all the lives on the planet. Everything else takes too long.

So the fastest and easiest way is to stop animal products and to stop consumption of it. The result will be almost immediate, within a few weeks. It’s just the meat industry that causes the most pollution for the planet, that the planet is overloaded, nature is overloaded, the ocean is overloaded. So everything warms up because of meat and animal products.

If we change into vegan diet, this planet will become a paradise, will be plentiful, will be peaceful, will be very happy for everybody to live on.

http://www.casavaria.com/cafesentido/2009/12/01/5205/climate-scientists-say-destabilization-much-worse-than-ipcc-reporting/