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Arin & Arisa Thongtang
Aug 311 min read

Coral Cry Out Loud

Recent coral bleaching is one of the world’s most tragic environmental records in human history, attributed to rising sea temperatures and changes in sea levels. These factors disrupt the delicate symbiotic relationship between corals and their symbiotic algae, leading to the expulsion of these algae from corals. This results in the discoloration of corals and severely impacts their health and survival. The main culprits behind this massive catastrophe are human activities that have led to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. Global warming drives higher sea temperatures and ocean acidification, exacerbating this life-threatening phenomenon and underscoring the urgent need to decelerate the pace of drastic climate change.


Without our collective collaboration, the world will face even more extreme climate events—intense heatwaves, severe storms, drastic floods, and droughts. The loss of coral reefs will profoundly affect overall biodiversity, leading to a decline in fish stocks, disruption of marine ecosystems, increased vulnerability in coastal protection, and more.



We must address the root cause: anthropogenic factors. If all nations enforce stringent regulations, adopt effective approaches, and take decisive actions as agreed upon in the Paris Agreement to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, we can mitigate further damage and potentially reverse some of the negative trends before reaching the point of no return. If we fail to act decisively, the loss of coral reefs and the resulting ecological and economic impacts could become irreversible.


Written by Arin & Arisa Thongtang

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Koh Phi Phi 

Paradise lost

In recent years, there has been a remarkable resurgence of sea life around the Phi Phi Islands, situated in Thailand. Notably, the return of sea creatures such as reef sharks and ghost crabs to the area has been a cause for celebration among marine enthusiasts and conservationists. This resurgence can be attributed in part to the dedicated efforts of marine officials who planted an impressive 23,000 corals in the region in 2021.

The Phi Phi Islands have long been a popular destination for tourists, and their fame received an extra boost from the 2000 movie 'The Beach,' starring Leonardo DiCaprio. This film showcased the islands' stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes, capturing the imagination of travelers from around the world. As a result, it ignited a spark of interest in the Phi Phi Islands, making them a must-visit destination for those seeking a picturesque and adventure-filled escape.

To a certain extent, the thriving tourism industry in the Phi Phi Islands has encountered sustainability challenges stemming from the very visitors it attracts. The sheer volume of tourists frequenting the islands has led to a concerning environmental impact. On a daily basis, these visitors generate a staggering 25 to 40 tonnes of waste, which is often inadequately managed and ends up polluting the pristine landscapes of the islands.

The pollution problem extends beyond just waste disposal. The coral reefs, which are critical to the ecological health of the region and are being actively restored through coral planting initiatives, face damage from various sources. The propellers of boat motors, often driven too close to the fragile coral ecosystems, can cause physical harm. Similarly, tourists themselves, while swimming or snorkeling, can inadvertently harm the corals through physical contact or by standing on them.

Furthermore, a concerning practice seen in some cases is the burning of trash or the disposal of garbage directly into the water. Such actions not only mar the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands but also threaten the marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters.

Addressing these sustainability challenges is a crucial task for both local authorities and the tourism industry. Sustainable tourism practices, responsible waste management, and heightened environmental awareness among tourists are essential steps toward preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Phi Phi Islands and ensuring they remain a breathtaking destination for generations to come.

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Koh Phi Phi

Climate Change

UUn

From Polar Ice Melting to Human Impact

Climate change is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon characterized by a long-term shift in the Earth's average temperature and climate patterns. It is primarily driven by a variety of factors, including natural processes and human activities.

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One significant aspect of climate change is the decrease in sea ice in polar regions. The Earth's polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at an accelerated rate, primarily due to the increase in global temperatures. This melting ice contributes to rising sea levels, which can result in coastal erosion, increased flooding, and the displacement of communities living in vulnerable coastal areas.

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Human activities play a major role in exacerbating climate change. The expansion of factories and industrialization has led to the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a greenhouse effect that raises global temperatures. The burning of fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and manufacturing processes is a significant source of these emissions.

 

Dense populations in urban areas also contribute to climate change. Concentrated populations require more resources and energy to support their daily needs, leading to higher emissions of greenhouse gases. This includes the energy required for heating, cooling, transportation, and the production of goods and services for a large number of people.

 

Wasteful energy practices further exacerbate climate change. Inefficient use of energy resources not only increases greenhouse gas emissions but also puts additional strain on natural resources. Energy conservation and the transition to renewable and sustainable energy sources are crucial steps in mitigating the effects of climate change.

 

In summary, climate change is a long-term shift in the Earth's average temperature and climate patterns, driven by various factors, including human activities such as industrialization, the burning of fossil fuels, and inefficient energy use.

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Understanding and addressing these factors are critical for mitigating the impacts of climate change and working towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

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