Sea-level rise ‘may cross two metres by 2100’

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recommends increasing the waterline demarcation for infrastructure projects in the Asia-Pacific region to two metres to enhance resilience against rising sea levels. An ADB report warns that sea levels could exceed two metres by 2100 due to land subsidence and ocean warming. The report, supported by hydrographic and geological evidence, suggests that governments should adjust infrastructure plans accordingly. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Report supports the plausibility of significant sea-level rise by 2100. The Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility highlights the low adaptive capacity of Pacific Island Countries, advocating for a comprehensive approach to infrastructure management.

Philippine Reclamation Projects Halted Amid Flood Fears

The Philippine government has suspended all reclamation projects in Manila Bay, except one, due to concerns about exacerbating chronic flooding in the capital and surrounding provinces. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is reviewing all 22 projects for compliance with environmental laws. Critics, including Senator Cynthia Villar and environmental groups, warn of severe flooding and ecological damage. The US Embassy has also expressed concerns, particularly about a Chinese company's involvement. The DENR aims to assess the cumulative environmental impact of these projects, which have been criticized for lacking proper stakeholder consultation.

Philippine reclamation projects halted amid flood fears

The Philippine government has suspended all reclamation projects in Manila Bay, except one, due to concerns about exacerbating chronic flooding in the capital and surrounding provinces. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is reviewing all 22 projects for compliance with environmental laws. Experts and concerned groups warn that these projects could worsen flooding, damage marine life, and affect fisherfolk livelihoods. The US Embassy has also expressed concerns about the environmental impact, particularly involving a Chinese company linked to military activities in the South China Sea. The DENR aims to assess the cumulative environmental impact of these projects.

Sea-Level Rise “May Cross Two Meters by 2100”

Land subsidence and climate change are expected to exacerbate sea-level rise in the Asia-Pacific region, potentially exceeding two meters by 2100. The Asian Development Bank recommends raising the waterline demarcation for infrastructure projects to improve resilience. The Pacific Island Countries, with low adaptive capacity, face significant challenges. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projects a global mean sea level rise of 1.7 to 6.8 meters by 2300. A holistic approach to infrastructure management is required to address these challenges.

Philippines Follows Bangladesh To Clear GM Eggplant

The Philippines has approved the commercial cultivation of Bt eggplant, a genetically modified variety resistant to pests, becoming the second country after Bangladesh to do so. The approval was announced by the University of the Philippines Los Baños, following a previous green light for its use as animal feed. Despite legal challenges and a Supreme Court reversal in 2016, the Bt eggplant, developed from a soil bacterium protein, promises increased productivity and safety due to reduced insecticide use. The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development highlighted the specificity and safety of the Bt protein, while researchers focus on educating growers about compliance with resistance management.

Sea-level rise 'may cross two meters by 2100'

The Asian Development Bank recommends raising the waterline demarcation for projects in the Asia Pacific region to two meters to improve resilience against rising sea levels. An ADB report warns that sea-level rise in the Asia-Pacific could exceed two meters by 2100 due to sinking land and ocean warming. Anthony Kiem, a professor at the University of Newcastle, highlights the worsening impacts of climate change on infrastructure. The report suggests governments adjust infrastructure plans based on projected sea-level changes, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to infrastructure management in Pacific Island Countries.

Climate-resilient breadfruit could boost food security

Breadfruit, originating from the Pacific and widely grown in South-East Asia, is identified as a promising crop for food security in regions affected by climate change. A study published in PLOS Climate highlights its resilience compared to other staples like corn and wheat. Experts, including Daniel Horton from Northwestern University, emphasize its nutritional benefits and potential for adaptation strategies. Breadfruit's versatility and long-term productivity make it suitable for areas with high food insecurity, such as Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its benefits, challenges like long maturity periods and lack of technology hinder its commercialisation in Africa.

Philippines battles spike in measles cases

The Philippines is experiencing a measles outbreak with 189 deaths and 11,459 confirmed cases reported from January 1 to February 20. Vaccine hesitancy, partly due to the Dengvaxia controversy, is a significant factor contributing to the outbreak. The Department of Health and WHO are working to improve immunization programs and public trust in vaccines, which has declined sharply. President Duterte and the Catholic Church have urged the public to vaccinate their children. A massive immunization drive is underway, with efforts to make vaccines more accessible, including house-to-house campaigns and vaccination centers in malls.