Earth Day

Earth day

4/12/2012

Today has been designated as “Earth Day”. One day out of the little over the 364 days we have in the year. Through my writing and postings on social networks, I attempt to bring to light, some of the issues that are affecting the planet, oceans and its marine life and humanity. (Why? Almost everyone with internet, gets on the social networks!) I don't pretend whatsoever to “SAVE THE PLANET”, for I am one of those that believe the planet saves itself from us!It is about preserving the quality of life we want to lead and leave for our children, grandchildren and generations to come.

Many times we hear about Global Warming, and in reality, we complain about the heat or the extreme cold,, but know not what is in our power to do, or to prevent it from worsening. The Amazons have become a “free for all”, and although there are lands that are supposed to be off-limits, as protected indigenous territory, the truth of the matter is that loggers could care less about the little pathetic signage, and continue to tear down and destroy “the lungs of the planet”. The Belo Monte dam, was approved without any input nor consent from the indigenous people that have lived there for thousands of years. Reality; deals were made for big time money!

In North America we have the EPA's Clean Air Act, BUT....even though it has been proven to be effective, the fossil fuel companies and their puppets in Congress are doing everything in their power to make sure it is not enforced the way it should and the way it would at least allow us to have a sense of normalcy ecologically.

If we do not ACT on the Clean Air Act, by 2050, just 38 years away, 35% of the flora and fauna will be extinct! What effects do you think it will have over other life-sustaining resources?

Individuals have taken it upon themselves to bring this matter to the attention of their local councilmen. By bringing this subject to the table, they are being effective in getting the local governments to write resolutions supporting the Act. It is sad how sometimes, our own local officials are unaware of the importance of matters such as these.

People are disgusted when they go to a park or a beach and find trash, but I have to wonder how many literally choose to pick up some of that trash. I know it can be overwhelming, but one bag is not going to kill you! There are those however, that do the complaining but do not pick up one single can, because “I did not throw it. That is what they pay people for doing!”

Apathy is part of the problem, another part is thinking that one cannot do anything, for after all, one is just one person! Interestingly, one person will not make the planet orbit in the opposite direction, but one person can make a difference, even if it is a little bit at a time. It is important that we look at ourselves as empowered people. We have to choose to eliminate the mirage that has been created before us by those with “power”; yes, a mirage, because the day people reclaim their power, those very few will have very little to say. We are the ones that keep them up there warming up seats and getting big fat checks, for doing not one thing that would benefit the overwhelming majority.

Puerto Rico is dealing with the “bombpipe”, a.k.a. El Gasoducto, another project that was in the cooking for some time and by the time it was announced to the public, multi-million dollar deals had already been made. Promises were made to the people, of huge discounts on the electric bill, when in fact we all know where the earnings will be going (if the people from Puerto Rico allow the bombpipe to be built!). People being displaced. This island that is less than 100 X 35 miles, will be getting a pipe of approximately 94 miles (think of an upside down “L”), when in fact, every time we have seismic movements, even when they are from one corner of the island, it can be felt throughout the entire island!

Most people have been accustomed to think that if they protest, they are engaging in a political party movement, as opposed to an issue that affects the entire population. It is like an invisible gag! Stay quiet and you look prettier! This attitude is what makes people regress, while others take advantage and progress in their objectives. One has the duty and the responsibility to look at the bigger picture.

Yes, it is called Earth Day, but think and think hard; are you doing your part to help it?

Tai Pelli