February 22, 2008
1. Earth has one big ocean with many features.
2. The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth.
3. The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.
4. The ocean makes Earth habitable.
5. The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.
6. The ocean and humans are inextricably linked.
7. The ocean is largely unexplored.
February 20, 2008
Since the tsunami striken in 2004, mangrove became an interesting subject. Some say mangrove is the hero and show many pictures that compare the existing condition of the construction behind the mangrove. Indeed, not only mangrove but most all coastal vegetations were regarded as the buffer of this severe wave.
Yes, mangrove can absorb the wave, but I don’t think that mangrove is the hero. Mangrove is relatively a victim. It stabilizes the dynamical system on the coastline where the ocean and the land meet. Its function was forgotten, as consequence, people convert the mangrove forest into human settlement. This is the most mistake that people have made.
Now, people start to replant the mangrove in order to increase protection against the tsunami. But how long the mangrove can effectivelly absorb the tsunami wave ? Well, it is not an instant way. We can’t justify that by planting the mangrove today, we all will save tomorrow. In calm condition such as estuary, 3 year-old mangrove has height of only 2-3 meters. On the beach with very dynamic condition, we are very fortunate if all the replanted mangrove are alive and can grow well.
It is a simple way how we can survive from natural disaster such as cyclone, tsunami or storm wave. Just leave the existing condition of the mangrove forest (don’t convert into any kind of use) and increase our awareness of the ocean dynamic.
February 2, 2008
I have a dream but I’m not a dreamer. I believe that this place would be a perfect place to learn how the nature gives enourmous benefit to people. People often ignore the sustainibility of the earth. They only pursue their well being by exploiting the short-come benefit of the earth.
I’m so proud be around with the people who are willing to give hands by planting the mangroves, caring the living environment, protecting the reefs and providing their land for turtle nesting site.
Life is not only about the materialistic subjects but more about devotion, respect and honest. The nature is the most precious gift, but why we never value it ?
That’s why, I’m really enjoy to live and close to the nature…
