Resource depletion is a major problem in the Philippines.  Our country is composed of more than 7 thousand islands which means that the country has lush aquatic natural resources coming from our oceans and land resources in our islands. The country is also one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, which means our ecosystems are thriving with different kinds of lifeforms, from the trees and the animals that live among to the fish and shellfish in the oceans and lakes.  This abundance and biodiversity is a major factor for the survival of our people. 

However, the Philippines and its aforementioned resources have been at risk because of the effects of Climate Change due to anthropogenic reasons.   on the country which destroys crops, affects animals on land and the fish both in the oceans and in our freshwater systems. Other problems that the country faces are illegal logging and overfishing. It does not help that the government agencies do not enforce the laws that would otherwise protect these natural resources.  There are also high levels of poverty in the rural areas closest to forests and oceans, lakes, rivers and other waterways, which forces people and families in these communities to cut down trees and overfish for added income.  

At the moment, the Philippines is feeling the effects of climate change and in hindsight, past generations should have made more of an effort to protecting our natural resources.  Just think if we had a lot of mangroves protecting our coastlines.  This would have lessened the carbon that is absorbed by the oceans, which causes acidification making it harder for marine life to thrive in the waters.

There are many things we can do to protect our natural resources and prevent resource depletion. For example, let?s all plant some trees, not just for us, but for everything around us.  Every tree will filter the air around us. It will take in the carbon dioxide and give us oxygen to breathe. It will provide homes and sanctuary to animals. Trees will prevent erosion through its root systems.  It will give us food for our bodies and lumber for our homes. As Thomas Fuller said in one of his quotes, "He that plants trees loves others besides himself." Choose to love, plant a tree!