Check out the original in French: http://darsihmadorg.blogspot.co.uk/2016/09/international-day-for-preservation-of.html
Dar
Si Hmad is pleased to welcome guest contributor Oumhani Benhima, an
Environmental Youth Ambassador. Oumhani wrote a piece showcasing the
importance of the ozone layer to celebrate today's International Day
for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Oumhani's French version,
published below, was translated into English by former Fulbright English
Teaching Assistant and Dar Si Hmad Intern Zeke Caceres. Thanks to
Oumhani and Zeke!
Today, we celebrate the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Dar Si Hmad, in collaboration with the Environmental Youth Ambassadors, has taken up the challenge of climate change.
It
is not by coincidence that the United Nations General Assembly has
chosen September 16 for this day of action and raising awareness to the
problems of the protection of the ozone layer. September 16 is the anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987.
This
year’s International Day for the Perseveration of the Ozone Layer is
celebrated under the theme “Ozone Layer and Climate: Restored by a World
United.”
Industrial
gases used in refrigerators and aerosols (a type of chlorofluorocarbon
or hydrochlorofluorocarbons) are responsible for the depletion of the
ozone layer - an atmospheric 'blanket' necessary for life on Earth that
allows for the filtration of ultraviolet rays. To protect the ozone
layer, the international community has set targets for the progressive
elimination of these chemical substances. Between 1988 and 2010, the
international community has reduced the emission of chlorofluorocarbons
(CFC) by more than 80% under the Montreal Protocol.
These efforts have allowed us to see an improvement in the state of the
ozone layer, especially around the Antarctica. According to scientists,
the hole currently there could return to its pre-1980 state after 2050.
The
protection of the ozone layer also is linked to climate change, as the
gas that destroys it is a strong greenhouse gas. Consequently, the
important fight that has been undertaken against gas destructive to the
ozone layer is also a beneficial action for the climate.
To
fight against climate change, the COP (Conference of Parties) was
created and set in place to frame the efforts of the participating
countries. In November 2016, COP 22
will take place in Marrakech, Morocco. This international reunion has
already been announced as the “Conference of Action,” following the
decisions taken by the previous edition of COP held in Paris.
One
of the saddest realities of climate challenge is its unequal impact.
Already marginalized groups bear the weight off the environmental
degradation.
Acknowledging this fact, Dar Si Hmad has taken up the challenge of collecting potable fog water with its unique project in North Africa.
Some
forty nets have been installed a an altitude of 1,225 meters at the
peak of the Boutmezguida Mountain which overlooks five villages in the
semi-arid region of Sidi Ifni. These nets capture droplets contained in
the dense fog which surrounds the mountain. The drops are then treated,
mixed with groundwater and transported via pipelines to the five
villages below. This technique avoids a need for the inhabitants to
journey several kilometers to get water.
In parallel with this project, Dar Si Hmad organizes the mobile Water School.
The Water School was conceived with one main objective: to use the fog
project as an entry to teaching through which children learn not only
about water but also discover the natural world via scientific tools and
see this world in a different way.
Dar
Si Hmad, in partnership with the Regional Delegation of Education in
Sidi Ifni, organizes activities and diverse courses in the rural schools
of Aït Baamrane. The students learn to understand many aspects related
to the theme of water, as well as the interdependence of ecosystems. The
adopted approach aims to engage the students entirely: spirits, hearts
and bodies.
Lastly,
but certainly not least, the environmental program directed by
ambitious youth, under the auspices of Dar Si Hmad, Environmental Youth
Ambassadors (EYAs). Until now, the EYAs have contributed to the 2016
Water School, organized two community events with more than 60 young
participants, and held events to raise awareness through visual
narration and environmental journalism to advocate about environmental
matters in southwest Morocco at a local and international scale that
have not received attention or substantial publicity. Especially as the
COP 22 Conference held in Marrakech in November 2016 approaches, this
type of initiative will be a significant contribution to the dialogues
and commitments of COP 22, showcasing the dynamic efforts of young
Moroccans who raise awareness in the fight against climate change.
The
protective ozone barrier makes live on our planet possible. It
contributes in a large way to the fight against climate change. From the
importance of this day of action and awareness which is an opportunity
to exchange our experiences and results, let us take this opportunity to
make people more conscious of this responsibility!
Simple
daily acts can allow the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. By
consuming energy and our daily daily purchases, we directly or
indirectly provoke the emission of greenhouse gases. Therefore, let us
protect our planet!
Let’s buy more sustainable products!
Let’s reduce our electric consumption!
Let’s sort out our waste!
And let’s change our transportation habits!
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