Chapter 7: Climate, Mental, and invasive

Climate Change

Long-term alteration of temperature and weather patterns caused by natural or human factors.

Main Cause (Anthropogenic)

Continuous emission of greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O) from industries, agriculture, and fossil fuels.

Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, causing global warming; main ones are CO₂, methane, and nitrous oxide.

CO₂ Increase (since 1970)

Rose by 90%, mostly from fossil fuel combustion.

Philippines Greenhouse Gas Emissions

157.6 million metric tons (0.33% of global total).

Main Emission Sectors in the Philippines

54% Energy, 33% Agriculture, 8% Industry, 7% Waste, 1% Forestry.

Slow-Onset Climate Events

Sea-level rise, temperature increase, ocean acidification, biodiversity loss, desertification.

Rapid-Onset Climate Events

Storms, floods, typhoons, droughts.

Effects of Climate Change

Temperature rise, sea-level rise, biodiversity loss, extreme weather, and agricultural decline.

Palawan Climate Change Impacts

Strong storms, floods, pest outbreaks, crop failure, habitat loss.

Typhoon Yolanda (2013)

Destroyed 60% of mangroves in Calauit Island, Palawan.

Roa et al. (2015) Study

Found 90% decrease in rice harvest in Bunog, Rizal, Palawan due to pests and floods.

Local Adaptations in Palawan

Traditional pest control ("Pagpapausok") and handicraft production as alternative livelihood.

Mental Health

A state of well-being where an individual can cope with life stresses, work productively, and contribute to society; a basic human right.

Factors Affecting Mental Health

Social, hereditary, physiological, and environmental factors.

Environmental Impact on Mental Health

Pollution, disasters, and climate change can increase anxiety, depression, and stress.

Climate Change Anxiety

Emotional distress and fear about environmental problems and their impacts on the future.

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature for relaxation and stress reduction.

Invasive Alien Species (IAS)

Non-native organisms that enter an area and harm the environment, economy, or human health.

Endangered Species

Species at risk of extinction due to habitat loss or low genetic variation.

Causes of Species Endangerment

Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation.

Loss of Genetic Variation

Reduced diversity within a species' genes, making it harder for them to adapt or survive.