Attitudes towards Waste Management – The Case in Oman

By | | ,
2 Comments

Responses to the Oman waste management questionnaire were interesting, enlightening, and often unexpected. The Omani interviewees gave thoughtful answers and additional insights and opinions that stemmed from their sociocultural backgrounds as well as from their individual experiences. Often, statements and assertions from these respondents were found to be corroborated by evidence from other types of research, such as the study on the composition of refuse found in dumpsites in Muscat, or the feeding habits of camels cited earlier.

Plastic-recycling-bin-Oman

Food waste

On the topic of food waste, respondents generally had a strong belief that such waste was immoral. When asked about the reasons for their convictions, many of them attributed it to Islamic teachings, and recited from memory well-known statements (hadiths) from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prohibiting food waste, and verses from the Holy Qur’an such as verse 7:31: “…eat and drink, but do not waste by excess, for Allah does not love those who waste.”

Water bottles

It seems that the use of non-reusable water bottles was on an exigency basis and was not the default choice for any of the respondents. However, it should be noted that all the households in this sample were either working class or middle class. Responses from a set of wealthy households might yield very different results on this issue.

Household waste

Regarding other sorts of household waste, respondents seemed to be aware that much of what ended up in their trash was packaging from purchased goods, whether food or non-perishables. As some respondents remarked in their responses, they recognized that the use of plastic bags instead of reusable bags at shops and supermarkets contributed to the plethora of plastic in their own household rubbish. One respondent in particular posited a clear causal link between the abundance of packaged, processed foods and the fact that packaging waste made up the bulk of what was in her household garbage bin on a daily basis.

Recycling programs

The majority of respondents were surprised and interested to hear that there were recycling programmes in Oman, but some were not optimistic that these programmes would soon be available in their neighbourhoods. The possibility of recycling electronics, batteries and/or printer ink was not suggested by any of the respondents, so it seems that they were unaware of any alternative to simply dumping such toxic items.

Influence of Islam

In line with the strong religious influence to which most respondents attributed their attitudes on the subjects of consumption and waste, several of them in their responses to the final question of the survey recalled this well-known hadith: “Every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. The leader of people is a guardian and is responsible for his constituents. A man is the guardian of his family and he is responsible for them. A woman is the guardian of her husband’s home and his children and she is responsible for them … Surely, every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.”

Key Takeaways

This study has presented results based on a pilot study with a very small sample of respondents. However, if we evaluate these responses in terms of what is already documented about Oman, its society, culture and economy, we can draw some useful inferences.

It is taken for granted that, as demographic, Omani men already play a key role in consumption patterns and waste management. As leaders and decision makers in government, in business and in private sector organizations, they establish the vision and best practices of their enterprises and institutions; as heads of households and families, they make and influence consumer choices for the household and the extended family. What our survey has hinted at is that Omani women have strong opinions about consumerism and waste management, too. Furthermore, as a demographic they seem poised to contribute a greater share of the input in this discourse.

Omani women comprise approximately 25 percent of the paid labour force in Oman, and the level of this participation is expected to keep growing. Meanwhile, their substantial contribution as unpaid service providers (in their roles as caregivers, homemakers, household managers, husbandry providers for small livestock, etc.) has yet to be truly measured. Yet like their male counterparts, as managers of their own households and the individuals who make and/or influence consumer choices for the household, they have significant potential influence on how waste is managed at the household level and the community level.

Another takeaway from this survey is that the role of religion is a crucial one. We saw that respondents directly credited Islamic teachings with shaping their attitudes and opinions on consumption and waste. Indeed, in the body of authentic Islamic texts one finds directives on land stewardship; prohibiting wastage and excess consumption; prescribing conservation of land, water, plant and animal life; and even reducing, reusing, sharing and recycling.

Thus we would extrapolate from these results that the Omani society is ready to engage actively in initiatives to promote more responsible consumption habits and sustainable waste management involving the four Rs. Omani culture has a strong tradition of conservative use, re-use, repurposing and recycling. Many of the traditional practices of family and community living now thought to be ‘outdated’ are actually highly efficient and ecologically sound. Omani men, women and children have the example of their grandparents to guide them in reviving and re-establishing local, traditional, sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices of careful consumption and waste management.  

Recommendations

First of all, this pilot study ought to be taken further and a full scale survey of attitudes and awareness on this topic should be conducted along the lines of the 2015 Sultan Qaboos University Department of Geography investigation on climate change awareness and perceptions in residents of Muscat. Equipped with the information gleaned from such a study, we propose that it will be found that conditions are ripe for the implementation of a network of well-designed, integrated and efficiently executed recycling programmes that are accessible to the Omani population where they live, work and go to school.

Back to Basics

Collective memory to the rescue: Consider returning to some of the ‘old ways’ – the ways the previous generation used to shop for, store, prepare, and dispose of food and other consumables. At the level of the household, families can avoid buying packaged pre-processed foods, use drinking water supply services which provide refillable containers/dispensers instead of buying bottled water, bring their own reusable shopping bags and request that purchases from shops not be placed in plastic bags.

Omani society is ready to engage actively in initiatives to promote sustainable waste management

Omani society is ready to engage actively in initiatives to promote sustainable waste management

Households could aim for ‘zero waste’ by applying the four Rs and participating in composting where possible. This is already being done in local rural areas, and it is a practice that is being restored in urban areas of developed countries in Europe, North America, and elsewhere.

Changing the Rules

Use consumer clout to change the practices of business and industry: It is known that businesses which serve consumers are very sensitive to customer demands. With the food service and hospitality industry, individual consumers in Oman can effect change by demanding less wasteful and more sustainable practices and options from the industry (e.g., compostable packaging, less packaging, appropriate portion sizes and eco-friendly food containers in restaurants, and filtered water instead of bottled water in restaurants and hotels).

Conclusion

This article has evaluated the results of a pilot survey of attitudes and awareness of food waste and related issues, highlighting some relevant past practices and positing that ‘collective memory,’ together with individual and communal will-power, can be harnessed to reverse the current trend and regain control of Oman’s burgeoning waste problem. The solution is local, but it has definite regional and potential global application.

Note: This is the third and final article in our special series on ‘Waste Management in Oman’. The first two parts are available at Waste Management Perspectives for Oman and Waste Management Awareness in Oman

References

  1. Palanivel, T.M. and H. Sulaiman. 2014. ‘Generation and Composition of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.’ ICESD 2014. APCBEE Procedia 10(2014): 96–102 (accessed 20/02/16)
  2. Chatty, D. 2000. ‘Women Working in Oman: Individual Choice and Cultural Constraints.’ Int. J. Middle East Stud. 32(2000): 241-254.
  3. ILO and Sultanate of Oman. 2010. Memorandum: Decent Work Country Programme 2010-2013. 1-25 <available on http://www.ilo.org/public/english/bureau/program/dwcp/download/oman.pdf
  4. Al Buloshi, A.S. and E. Ramadan. 2015. ‘Climate Change Awareness and Perception amongst the Inhabitants of Muscat Governorate, Oman.’ American Journal of Climate Change, 4, 330-336.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/ajcc.2015.44026 (accessed 27/08/2015)
  5. Abdul-Matin, I. 2010. Green Deen: What Islam Teaches About Protecting the Planet. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler.
  6. ten Veen, R.C. 2009. 199 Ways to Please God. UK: Fastprint Gold. 

Signs You May Have Asbestos in Your House

By | | , ,
2 Comments

If you’re buying a home or doing some makeover, you need to be careful about the presence of asbestos on the walls and other surfaces. Asbestos refers to a mixture of naturally-occurring minerals that are used in building materials. However, the use of this mineral is curtailed because exposure to it can lead to a variety of severe diseases. While your naked eye can’t see asbestos due to its colorless and odorless nature, there are ways to determine whether your home is contaminated with this toxic mineral.

Keep reading this article to learn a few signs that can indicate the presence of asbestos in your house.

You Live In An Older Home

Ideally, there’s nothing wrong if you prefer living in a vintage house. Aside from the fact that they’re packed with history, having an old-fashioned house that was built a long time ago can offer plenty of charm and character. Not only that, but you can also enjoy its stunning architectural styles.

However, despite these advantages, living in an old home can increase your chances of getting exposed to asbestos. Most homes constructed before the 1980s have high asbestos content. If you’re wondering, what is asbestos? it is a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and insulating properties. This is for the reason that the toxic mineral was used for pipes, ducts, fireplaces, and boilers, among others, due to its insulating properties. Moreover, asbestos may also be present in sidings, pipe cement, floor tiles, and even ceiling tiles.

When these building components are broken or damaged, you and your family are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma cancer from asbestos in your home. Mesothelioma is a cancer affecting the lining of the lungs; when it’s not appropriately treated, it can be fatal.

Therefore, if you’re buying an old house built in the 1980s, be sure to get it tested for asbestos to avoid health problems in the future.

Your Home Has Corrugated Roofing

If your home has corrugated roofing, you may also be at risk for asbestos exposure. Generally, manufacturers of corrugated roofing sheets add asbestos to make the materials more durable, heat-resistant, and weatherproof.

But, regardless of their durability, living in a home with corrugated roofing sheets comes with health hazards. In the event your roofing gets damaged due to harsh weather conditions and fire, it releases asbestos fibers to the surroundings. As a result, you might inhale them and cause inflammation and infection in the lungs and your entire body.

So, if you notice your home’s roofing is made of corrugated sheets, and some of them need replacement, call a professional for asbestos roofing sheet disposal as early as you can.

Your Home Uses Vinyl Flooring

Up to these days, vinyl flooring remains to be one of the most preferred floor coverings for many homes across the world. Due to its appearance, durability, and economic value, many people are looking for this type of flooring. Unfortunately, most vinyl flooring sheets contain high asbestos content, which can pose a potential health risk to everyone living in the household.

If the vinyl flooring is working properly and in good condition, it’s not harmful because the hazardous mineral is covered in vinyl, which prevents the fibers from escaping. However, when the flooring gets damaged due to wear and tear and other causes, this building material is more likely to release a considerable amount of asbestos into the environment. This, in effect, can lead to several respiratory diseases, including cancer.

For this reason, if your home has damaged or broken vinyl flooring, it may be an indication that you and the rest of your family members could already be exposed to the dangers of asbestos. To safeguard your loved ones from any health risk, contact professionals for the immediate removal of the flooring.

Your Home’s Building Materials Use Cement Sheets

Typically, cement sheets are building materials used for internal and external walls, ceiling paneling, and other commercial and industrial purposes. However, using these construction materials isn’t advisable since they contain asbestos to increase their durability.

That’s why it’s best to check whether your home uses cement sheets for the walls, ceilings, and many more. If these building components get broken, you and your family will more likely be exposed to asbestos, leading to several adverse health consequences.

If most of your home’s building materials are made from cement sheets, and they’re not in good condition, be sure to disrupt them immediately by calling an asbestos removal company in your area.

Final Thoughts

By keeping this information in mind, you can quickly determine and test the presence of asbestos in your home. And, if your abode is positive for asbestos content, have a reputable company come over and perform the necessary removal of the harmful minerals.

While you have nothing to worry about materials containing asbestos, especially if they remain to be in good shape, it’s still important to closely monitor them for any future deterioration. By doing so, you can ensure that your family is safe from health risks.

8 Factors How Home Building Impacts Our Environment

By | | ,
5 Comments

More homeowners are electing to build their own homes instead of buying established properties. There are several reasons for this. Some people want to be in charge of the design and construction. They want the final say on what their house. New homes also tend to be less expensive in terms on maintenance costs. There’s no need to worry about renovation for a while. Many new homes are being built in newer neighborhoods that are relatively safe and free from crime.

If you are considering building or renovating a home but don’t know where to start, there are plenty of companies that can help you. Go online to find out information. You can find out about building timelines, get estimates, and view past successful projects. You can also search for local commercial contractors in your area. New homes can also be healthy for the environment. Here are 8 important factors to prove that home building can improve the environment:

1. Reduced reliance on shared resources

As our global population continues to grow, more and more strain is being put on our natural resources every year. There is only so much to go around, despite the best efforts to replenish what we’ve used. We tend to use more resources than we replace every year. If this trend continues, it won’t be long until most resources are completely exhausted.

Using building materials and techniques that are energy efficient and use less of our existing resources helps put less strain on these resources. It also ensures the longevity of natural resources for years to come.

2. Efficient materials

When most homes are built, the end results usually wind up having a lot of extra materials laying around. Glass, wood, concrete, bricks and asbestos tiles are some of the materials that are often left over after a renovation or demolition. Some of these materials are damaged or small to be effectively re-used. Other products are too harmful for people or the environment to ever be used again. They end up taking space in local landfills, which consume more space as they sit there for decades.

construction-wastes

Companies nowadays are looking to use processes and materials that are more efficient. They want to create less waste. They also want to have materials that are less hazardous to humans and the environment in general. They take the time to design green homes, so that only the required materials are used and there are little to no extras afterwards. There are also no wasted materials that can’t be used elsewhere.

Certain firms try to use recycled or reprocessed materials whenever possible instead of having to create new materials from scratch. You can find out more about what different companies’ practices are regarding new and recycled materials on our website.

3. Lower operation costs

Most modern buildings are designed in ways that are energy efficient. This tends to reduce homeowners energy costs in the long run. Maintenance costs can be over half the lifetime costs of a home or more.

More and more homes are being built with good natural lighting that saves their home owners hundreds or even thousands of dollars on their electricity bills over their lifetimes. Efficient buildings generally are cheaper to operate and maintain over time.

4. Better indoor air quality

New homes are often constructed with air quality in mind. Better and more air efficient flow is the goal of many new heating and cooling systems. There are systems that can be controlled room by room, so only rooms that are currently used are being served at one time.

indoor-air-quality-arab

This is not only a significant cost saving for homeowners, but can help provide better indoor air quality for all of a home’s residents.

5. Overall energy efficiency

Blueprints are often drafted for new housing that increase a home’s energy efficiency. Using more natural lighting and solar panels can reduce dependency on artificial light. They also encourage more efficient ways to use energy in the home.

Non-renewable energy sources are not only expensive, but they can also harm the environment over time. Finding natural ways to warm and heat homes are great for saving money and providing a cleaner eco footprint.

6. Efficient use of water resources

Older homes sometimes have design flaws and problems that can waste large amounts of water. Newer homes take into account the fact that our water resources are limited in certain areas. Buildings in general consume trillions of gallons of water every year.

hot-water-conservation

That is why ideas like using recycled rainwater and installing energy efficient plumbing solutions are key factors in many new homes’ construction. This allows the homeowners to only use the water they need, and not waste as much. It’s a saving for the homeowner that also helps preserve and recycle existing resources.

7. Better personal health

More and more construction companies and remodelers have been using environmentally friendly building materials. They are getting rid of products that have been known to cause cancer, asthma, allergies and other potentially toxic health conditions.

The end result is that homeowners and their families are healthier in these newer homes. It reduces stress and medical costs and improves their overall quality of life.

8. Healthier for our environment

Using eco-friendly products are also good for our environment as a whole. Reducing emissions from coal, wood and other pollutants can help improve our outdoor air quality. It also helps lessen the effects and slow the pace of climate change.

Parting Shot

It is very possible for us to use current resources and materials in creating homes that are actually very beneficial for the environment. Many companies and manufacturers are thinking of their products’ long-term effects on individuals and the environment, and are designing safer products with those considerations in mind. They create building materials that give off fewer carbon dioxide emissions.

Instead of ending up in dumps or landfills, a lot of construction waste can be reused or recycled for other uses. It also takes less time and energy to transport these materials to be reused or recycled. All of these efforts help make our world a much safer place to live and work every day.

How Does CFD (Contract For Difference) Trading Work?

By | |
Leave a comment

CFD, or contract for difference, refers to a popular financial instrument that is the key component of a trader’s portfolio. CFDs are a form of trading and a popular gateway for a series of investors to enter the financial market. They are offered by brokers for common tradable assets like forex, commodities, and spot metals.

CFDs are a type of derivative trading. In essence, this means that its value is derived from the price movement of the underlying asset. They basically allow traders to trade the price movement without actually owning the asset. Several platforms including Vantage Markets are among the brokers offering CFD trading. You can also take up the Vantage Markets broker test for better insights.

How to Trade CFDs

Forming a Contract

When traders choose to trade CFDs, it means that they are engaging in a contract that is conducted between them and the broker. The trader here is the buyer, and the broker is the seller. Here, they are agreeing to a contract that speculates on the price of the underlying asset under specific market conditions.

Choosing to trade with CFDs helps traders avoid the typical disadvantages of trading by not actually having to buy the underlying asset. This also helps them save money.

How Does This Contract Really Work?

The profit and loss faced by the trader are essentially calculated by judging the price difference of the asset when the contract is entered and exited. This mainly states that the broker or seller who enters into this contract with you agrees to pay you the difference between the price of the asset when you enter and exit the contract.

However, if there is a loss, the trader or the buyer has to pay the difference according to the contract.

This is basically how CFD brokers make money. As with any sort of trading, you have to be aware of the risks as a trader, and potential losses on the price of the asset is one of the key risks you deal with as a CFC trader.

Margin And Leverage Are Important to Consider When Trading CFDs

The key advantage of trading CFDs is that you only need to deposit a small percentage of the total trade value.

Leverage Is Relatively Higher With CFDs as Compared to Other Trading Methods

With CFDs, traders use a fraction of their capital to activate a position, which consequently brings opportunities for greater returns. However, it is important to remember that as often as leverage brings forth chances of boosting profits, it also opens the possibility of higher losses.

How to Calculate the Profit and the Loss?

The key formula for calculating either the profit or loss you made in a contract is to figure out the difference between the price of the asset when you enter and when you exit the particular contract. The difference is then multiplied by your CFD units. CFDs are generally available across a huge range of markets, making them highly accessible to traders. You can choose from CFDs on shares, indices, and commodities.

How To Successfully Trade On Forex

How to Trade CFDs?

To trade CFDs, you just require a good broker to start with it. A series of platforms offer traders to form demo accounts, where they can try out their skills before taking any risks. You can even choose from the variety of assets available to decide which one would suit you best. And then all you would need is to practice and then set up your actual account to kickstart your trading career.

Conclusion

CFDs are well-known instruments actively employed when forming a trader’s portfolio. They are a gateway for investors to enter the financial market and are offered by several brokers online. They are a great way of making money by not actually buying the asset and saving yourself the hassle.

Biomass Energy in Jordan

By | | ,
4 Comments

Jordan has promising biomass energy potential in the form of municipal solid wastes, crop residues and organic industrial wastes.  Municipal solid wastes represent the best source of biomass in Jordan. In terms of quantity per capita and constituents, the waste generated in Jordan is comparable to most semi-industrialized nations. Agricultural biomass offers a low energy potential due to arid climate in most of the country.

The major biomass energy resources in Jordan are:

  • Municipal waste from big cities
  • Organic wastes from slaughterhouse, vegetable market, hotels and restaurants.
  • Organic waste from agro-industries
  • Animal manure, mainly from cows and chickens.
  • Sewage sludge and septic.
  • Olive mills.
  • Organic industrial waste

The total generation of municipal waste in Jordan is estimated at more than 2 million tons per year. In addition, an annual amount of 1.83 million cubic meter of septic and sewage sludge from treatment of 44 million cubic meter of sewage water is generated in Greater Amman area. The potential annual sewage sludge and septic generated in Amman can be estimated at 85,000 tons of dry matter. Jordan also generate significant amount of animal manure due to strong animal population in the form of cattle, sheep, camels, horses etc. 

Organic industrial wastes, either liquid or solid, is a good biomass resource and can be a good substrate for biogas generation. Anaerobic digestion is fast gaining popularity as one of the best waste management method for biomass utilization. The use of anaerobic digestion technology for biomassl waste management would be a significant step in Jordan’s emergence as a renewable energy hub in the MENA region. Jordan is planning to implement 40-50 MW of waste-to-energy projects by 2020.

Biogas Plant at Rusaifeh Landfill

The Government of Jordan, in collaboration with UNDP, GEF and the Danish Government, established 1MW biogas plant at Rusaifeh landfill near Amman in 1999.  The plant has been successfully operating since its commissioning and has recently been increased to 4MW. The project consists of a system of twelve landfill gas wells and an anaerobic digestion plant based on 60 tons per day of organic wastes from hotels, restaurants and slaughterhouses in Amman. The successful installation of the biogas project has made it a role model in the entire region and several big cities are striving to replicate the model.

How to Avoid Drinking Heavy Metals?

By | | , ,
1 Comment

Heavy metals naturally occur in our environment. Even so, they aren’t the kind of substances you’ll want in your body. Each of the common heavy metals produces different reactions within the body. In some cases, metals of this nature may contribute to heavy metal poisoning or certain diseases and illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about heavy metals and how to avoid drinking them.

water-conservation-arab

 

Signs You Have Issues with Heavy Metals

It’s not always easy to tell if you have heavy metals in your drinking water. The symptoms related to heavy metal ingestion can range from mild to severe, although they tend to develop slowly over time. Some of the common symptoms associated with heavy metal exposure include:

  • Diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • General weakness

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cited the United States as one of the countries in the world with higher levels of arsenic in groundwater. Other common heavy metals that may be in your household water include copper, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and lead. More specific symptoms are associated with each of the different heavy metals. With mercury poisoning, for instance, you might notice a lack of coordination, speech and hearing issues, vision changes, or nerve damage in your hands or face.

Get Your Water Tested

The first step you can take to avoid drinking heavy metals is to get your water tested for the presence of heavy metals. The results will determine if there are high amounts of any common heavy metals in your household water. You’ll be more likely to avoid drinking heavy metals if you know for sure what’s in the water coming into your home.

Avoid Seafood with High Levels of Mercury

If it turns out that you are being exposed to higher-than-normal levels of heavy metal in your drinking water, taking additional steps to avoid upping those levels even more can be helpful. Seafood is a good starting point. Not all seafood is loaded with heavy metals. In fact, many types of seafood are a reliable source of beneficial nutrients.

water-scarcity-bahrain

What you will want to avoid, however, is seafood with high levels of mercury. Specifically, this means avoiding excessive consumption of:

  • Swordfish
  • Marlin
  • Bigeye and ahi tuna
  • Tilefish

Have Pipes Checked and Replaced (If Necessary)

Most homes constructed prior to 1980 have lead solder that was used to secure pipe joints. Some homes also have issues with lead and copper in serve lines and other types of household plumbing. If testing shows high levels of heavy metals in your home, one of the culprits could be your plumbing. A thorough plumbing inspection can determine if the issue may be your pipes. If it is, you may benefit from appropriate plumbing updates.

Don’t Frequently Use Old Dishware

Old ceramic dishware may contain lead. If you normally use older dishware, it’s best to only use it for special occasions. Choose non-toxic plates and related accessories for everyday use.

Replace Mercury Thermometers with Digital Ones

It may seem unlikely that an old mercury thermometer could break and get into your household drinking water. Still, it’s best to err on the side of caution and replace mercury thermometers, especially ones used in your kitchen or dining area, with newer digital ones.

Be Cautious with Herbicides

If you regularly work in the garden around your home, be aware that some herbicides contain heavy metals. Take time to choose products of this nature that do not contain heavy metal levels.

Check the Content of Your Medications

It may seem like a long-shot, but certain medications do contain heavy metals as key ingredients. Check the specific contents of any medications you normally take on a regular basis. If you notice unusually high levels of heavy metals, talk to your doctor about the possibility of changing to other medications that still address your health-related problems.

Replace Older Paint

Older homes are more likely to have lead paint. According to the EPA, the consumer use of lead-containing paint was banned in 1978. So, if you have a home that’s older than this and you haven’t updated your paint, this is a step worth taking.

Another way to avoid heavy metals in your drinking water is to use a reliable water filter. A top-quality filter can leave you with cleaner household water that’s also healthier and safer to use and drink on a regular basis. Ultimately, you deserve drinking water that’s not going to negatively affect your health and live a happier life. With the proper precautions, you can achieve this goal and enjoy much-appreciated peace of mind.

A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Crypto: Step-by-Step Instructions

By | |
Leave a comment

The dawn of the digital currency era was initiated by an anonymous individual or team using the alias Satoshi Nakamoto, who created Bitcoin in 2009. Subsequently, countless other cryptos have blossomed into existence like Ethereum, Ripple, Solana, and others. Although this industry has gained remarkable traction in recent years, it is faced with issues such as regulatory impediments, fluctuation, and security vulnerabilities. However, these roadblocks cannot impede its progression; new applications are being developed daily for cryptocurrency’s ever-expanding presence! In this article, we will discuss what is cryptocurrency and how to purchase it.

beginner's guide to cryptocurrency

What is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is an innovative, digital form of money that utilizes encryption to protect transactions and monitor the generation of new units. Unlike typical currencies which are subject to government oversight or central banking authority, cryptocurrency operates independently as a decentralized entity.

Cryptos are largely underpinned by blockchain technology, a decentralized ledger that maintains secure and transparent records of transactions. Furthermore, the restricted availability of these digital assets lends them an air of exclusivity as prices tend to spike unpredictably. As such, cryptos can be seen as valuable investments with the potential for significant returns on investment over short periods of time.

Cryptocurrencies are encrypted using sophisticated cryptographic algorithms, making them hard to breach or counterfeit. Not all digital currencies provide full anonymity, yet many offer a certain level of privacy and obscurity for their users.

Despite the fact that cryptocurrency regulations are still in flux, a plethora of individuals and businesses, both locally and globally, have begun to embrace cryptocurrencies as a viable payment option and investment vehicle. The potential for this revolutionary technology is immense; it could easily revolutionize many industries!

The crypto sector is ever-evolving with never-ending improvements and emerging use cases. Decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), just to name a few, are examples of these advancements in the industry. Many beginners wonder, “How do I buy and sell cryptocurrency?”. Let’s talk about it.

How to Buy Crypto?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to buy crypto, and we will take the WhiteBIT exchange as an example.

Founded in 2018, WhiteBIT is an Estonian crypto exchange that provides traders with a variety of services such as margin and spot trading along with multiple cryptocurrencies to choose from. Whether you’re looking for reliable digital asset liquidity or just want to diversify your portfolio, WhiteBIT offers something for everyone.

WhiteBIT is renowned for its high-grade security protocols, safeguarding user data and funds via cold storage, two-factor authentication, and consistent audits. Furthermore, the platform follows all AML/KYC regulations to thwart fraudulent behavior while protecting users at every turn. With these comprehensive measures in place, everyone can rest assured that their investments will be safe on this reliable exchange.

On top of its security measures, WhiteBIT is celebrated for its intuitive user interface and affordable trading fees. All trades are charged a flat fee of 0.1%, regardless of the currency or size traded, making it an alluring choice for both novice and veteran traders keen to minimize expenses.

Tradable assets abound on WhiteBIT – from Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Cardano to a host of other digital coins. For those who prefer traditional currency, USD and EUR are all accepted; enabling users to effortlessly deposit or withdraw the money they need in whichever format suits them best.

Taking all factors into consideration, WhiteBIT is an ideal solution for anyone wishing to trade cryptos securely and conveniently. Its incredibly low fees coupled with the vast array of available assets make this exchange a great choice for traders regardless of skill level or expertise.

How to buy and trade cryptocurrency? Here is the manual.

Step 1 – Registration

Take the initiative to join WhiteBIT. Go ahead and explore their website, then press “Sign up” for your own unique account. Fill in the required personal information accurately and follow the instructions provided to complete registration quickly.

Step 2 – Verification

To ensure adherence to government guidelines, we kindly request you verify your account by providing essential identification documents such as a passport or ID card. Follow the steps outlined by WhiteBIT and finish off the verification process in no time.

Step 3 – Add Funds

After verifying your account, you can easily add funds to your profile with either cryptocurrency or traditional currency. To do so, simply hit the “Deposit” button and choose one of our many payment options like a bank transfer or credit card. Quickly and conveniently get started on investing today.

Step 4 – Select an Asset

Once your funds have been securely deposited, venture over to the trading tab of WhiteBIT and pick out the cryptocurrency of your choice.

Step 5 – Open an Order

Select the type of order you would like to place, such as a market or limit order, and enter the desired cryptocurrency quantity. Double-check your entries and click on “Buy” to finalize the transaction.

Step 6 – Withdraw or Trade Further

Once your order is completed, the crypto will be transferred to your WhiteBIT account. To move it to an external wallet of yours, simply click on “Withdraw” and follow these easy steps supplied by WhiteBIT.

It is essential to keep in mind that trading crypto involves risks and it is imperative you properly research these potential drawbacks before investing. Also, various countries may have different regulations for buying or selling digital currency, so make sure you comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

choosing the right cryptocurrency exchange

Investing in crypto on the WhiteBIT exchange offers a plethora of benefits that you won’t find anywhere else, including:

  • Low fees. WhiteBIT provides some of the most competitive trading fees in the industry, making it a tempting choice for buyers searching to downscale their transaction costs.
  • Wide range of cryptos. With this platform, you can pick from some of the most popular coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. But why stop there? Dive into more obscure altcoins to discover which ones offer the highest potential for your investments.
  • High liquidity. On WhiteBIT, investors can effortlessly and quickly buy and sell digital assets due to its impressive liquidity that ensures minimal slippage.
  • Advanced trading tools. With WhiteBIT, savvy traders have access to cutting-edge tools like limit orders and stop-loss orders; these features assist investors in mitigating their risk while simultaneously optimizing trading plans.
  • Strong security measures. WhiteBIT has implemented reinforced security measures, including two-factor authentication and cold storage of funds, to safeguard users’ assets from nefarious activities such as hacking or theft.
  • User-friendly interface. WhiteBIT’s user experience is designed to be intuitive, making it a breeze for both beginners and experienced traders to navigate.

Before investing in crypto, it’s essential to note that risks abound. It is vital to thoroughly research the potential of these risks and familiarize yourself with them before proceeding. Given varying regulations between countries and regions related to buying/selling crypto, ensure you abide by any applicable laws or mandates relevant for your locale as well.

Conclusion: Should You Buy Cryptocurrency in 2023?

In 2023, investors may encounter notable benefits when investing in crypto, particularly with many cryptos having seen significant growth over the years, there is potential for high returns. Furthermore, including digital coins in your portfolio offers diversification as it operates separately from traditional investments like bonds and stocks.

With an ever-changing environment, the crypto industry offers new possibilities for growth and advancement. Not to mention, your investments are protected with sophisticated cryptography that makes them almost impossible to be hacked or counterfeited, making security a huge plus when buying crypto assets.

Cryptos are assets that can be traded quickly and easily on exchanges. Notably, they also provide a fantastic privacy option for those who value anonymity – many of them offer some level of privacy to their users’ finances.

Despite its many benefits, it’s essential to recognize that investing in crypto carries potential risks like market unpredictability, regulatory instability, and security worries. Therefore, investors should meticulously do their research and understand the possible risks before they decide to invest. Also remember: you must adhere to regional laws and regulations when trading with digital currency if you want your investment to remain secure.

To learn more about how to buy and sell cryptocurrency, welcome to the WhiteBIT blog. This blog provides comprehensive content about topics that are pertinent to the industry, such as blockchain advancement, global cryptocurrency tendencies, and trading techniques. The WhiteBIT blog provides users with market analysis updates, allowing them to keep up-to-date on the price analysis and trends of the market. Furthermore, they can take advantage of our cutting-edge news coverage and events impacting crypto trading.

The blog keeps you up to speed with the newest developments, such as fresh cryptocurrency listings and development in trading pairs, along with any platform enhancements. Moreover, our blog covers industry news that may sway the market like regulatory updates and partnerships.

The WhiteBIT blog is an invaluable asset for investors trying to stay up-to-date on the most recent breakthroughs in crypto trading. With its valuable insights and data, traders can make more knowledgeable decisions and continue to lead the charge in this everchanging arena of finance.

كورونا – درس مطلوب فهم بعده البيئي

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

العالم يحتفل بيوم الأرض العالمي للعام 2020م في ظروف إستثنائية بالغة التعقيد تعيش واقعها الصعب البشرية بسبب جائحة الوباء كورونا وما رافقها من منعطفات خطيرة أكدت على مؤشرات العلاقة غير الموزونة مع النظام البيئي لكوكب الأرض وبعدها الكارثي على الأمن الصحي والبيئي للإنسانية، وبعثت المنعطفات الكارثية رسائل تدعو البشرية للإستفاقة من غفوتها وتبدأ في إعادة حساباتها ومراجعة مواقفها وعنادها التي كانت حتى مرحلة قريبة ترفض التراجع عن خططها الاقتصادية والصناعية المدمرة لكوكب الأرض.

جائحة الوباء كورونا سجلت رسائل مهمة في منظومة الأمن الإنساني المرتبطة بمتطلبات الأمن البيئي والاقتصادي والغذائي للبشرية، وتلك الرسائل تؤكد على الضرورة الإستراتيجية في مراجعة مناهج الاستغلال الجشع للموارد الطبيعية واستخدام الطاقة والالتزام بالمعايير البيئية في الأنشطة الصناعية والبيئية بما يضمن تبني إجراءات وقف حالات التعدي على الأنظمة الطبيعية والاستغلال غير الرشيد الجائر والجاني للثروات البيئية، والانتهاكات الجسيمة الحاصلة في العلاقة مع المعالم البيئية وكبح جماح المخاطر على الأمن البيئي لكوكب الأرض التي تسببها الأنشطة الخارجة عن العقلانية للتطور الصناعي والاقتصادي والعسكري أيضا والذي أوجد خللًا عميقًا في توازن منظومة النظام البيئي لكوكب الأرض، تسبب في التلويث الشامل للغلاف الجوي للكرة الأرضية وتزايد مخاطر تدهور طبقة الأوزون وأضحت تهدد بفناء الحياة على كوكب الأرض.

إحياء يوم الأرض في بلادنا له خصوصيته إذ يتوافق مع ظروف الأزمة الاستثنائية لمشكلة تراكم المخلفات المنزلية بسبب عدم تمكن عمال النظافة من التواجد في مواقع عملهم لكنس المخلفات من الشوارع للظروف الاستثنائية لجائحة الوباء كورونا، وذلك الواقع بين جوانب الخلل في منظومة السلوك الاجتماعي في العلاقة مع النظافة العامة وضعف التدبير في التخطيط الإداري في منظومة العمل المؤسسي والاجتماعي في بناء خطة بديلة للتدخل في الحالات الطارئة لمعالجة مشكلة النظافة، ومن جانب آخر أكد على مؤشرات ضرورة التفكير الجدي في بناء منظومة العمل الفني والإداري لإعادة تدوير المخلفات المنزلية وتوفير متطلبات الالتزام بآلياتها وإجراءاتها فنيًا وقانونيًا، وبناء الوعي الاجتماعي في كيفية التحكم في تقليل النفايات المنزلية وطرق تنظيم آلية التخلص منها.

زبدة القول جائحة كورونا درس ينبغي فهم بعده البيئي، ورسالة من الطبيعة توقظ البشرية من سباتها لتتخذ قراراتها الحكيمة والفاعلة في إجراء تغيير جذري ومسؤول في سياساتها لتحسين حالة الأمن البيئي لكوكب الأرض.

5 Tips for Starting and Growing an Environmentally-friendly Business

By | | , ,
1 Comment

It is fantastic that there is currently a big surge in companies becoming more environmentally aware and introducing sustainable and eco-friendly policies. And more and more startups are choosing to focus on being as green as possible.

If you are considering starting your own environmentally-friendly business, you can help to save the planet while also potentially creating high levels of revenue.

Tips for Starting an Eco-friendly Business

But before you decide to launch your green company, make sure you take note of the following five helpful tips.

1. Determine the Type of Business You Want to Launch and the Opportunities for Making it Green

The first step in starting an environmentally-friendly business is to determine what kind of business you want to launch. You could focus on a business that is about promoting greenness, such as a recycled furniture business.

Alternatively, you could begin any type of business and ensure it puts eco-friendliness at its heart and is green through and through, such as only using sustainable materials and avoiding manufacturers and distributors that create a high carbon footprint.

Once you figure out what it is you want to do with your startup, you can determine how to do it in an environmentally-friendly way.

2. Make Sure You Have Strong Business Skills

Regardless of the type of business you decide to set up, you will be able to achieve your goals and grow your business if you have strong business skills.

If you do not currently have good business acumen, it could be worth enrolling in a bachelor’s degree related to business.

If you already possess good business skills, it could be worth learning even more, by completing an MBA program for instance, so that you can make the business you launch successful from day one.

Trusted MBA lenders are available to help you fund your education. And it can be more than worth spending the time and money required to study for an MBA if it means you have the opportunity to create and grow a successful company and generate higher revenue.

Once you have the necessary skills and knowledge, you need to come up with an effective business plan for your environmentally-friendly business.

Also Read: How to Conduct Customer Satisfaction Surveys for Solar Business

3. Look at How You Can Achieve Eco-friendliness for Each Element of Your Business Operations

To create a fully eco-friendly business, you need to think green throughout your business decisions. That means considering the environmental impact of every element of your operations.

Sustainability needs to be at the heart of your business operations. You should have a system in place that allows your company to reduce, recycle, and reuse. You also need to focus on keeping your carbon footprint at a minimal level.

Energy consumption is another factor you need to consider carefully. You will need to make your energy consumption as low and as green as possible.

Ways to Make Your Business Eco-Friendly

4. Find Out About National Green Incentives

Many countries have implemented measures that incentivize new businesses to maintain sustainable and environmentally-friendly business models.

So, you may be able to access grants or pay lower taxes, for example. In fact, the reporting rules for form 1099K might revert back to the $20,000 (or 200 transactions) threshold for 2024 instead of the $600 threshold that is currently imposed.

Look at the grants and other assistance that is available in your specific country and determine what you will need to do to qualify.

By accessing national green incentives, you could potentially reduce your startup expenses and continuing costs significantly while also ensuring your business has excellent green credentials.

5. Hire Local or Remote Employees

One thing many businesses that strive for eco-friendliness often overlook is the environmental impact that their employees have when they need to commute to workplaces.

Carbon footprints can be very high when you employ workers who need to travel to work. The longer the distance, the higher the carbon footprint will be.

You can mitigate this problem by hiring employees who are based locally or hiring remote workers as much as possible.

Useful Resource: How to Make Your Website More Sustainable

Impact of COVID-19 on Slums and Informal Settlements

By | | ,
4 Comments

An estimated one billion people across the globe live in slums or informal settlements. As much of the world is already braced and battling with coronavirus crisis, there are others perplexed as to how this one billion people can possibly deal with the current pandemic. The general recommendations to global population are to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, if sick to self-isolate, and when out and about to practice social distancing of keeping 2 meters away from other persons. Three simple directives or are they?

How feasible are these recommendations for people living in informal settlements and slums?

As the pandemic is on the doorstep, there has been noticeably little discussion of how to combat the pandemic in slums and informal settlements around the world. How can these people groups deal with the looming threat of COVID-19? The answer is simply, they cannot. The virus is invisible but so are the health conditions of the residents along with the social needs of these communities.

coronavirus-slums-developing-countries

The actual common health threats of the people living in these marginalized areas is undocumented and poorly understood by national authorities. Research has been conducted reviewing the post-Ebola urban health of the people in Sierra Leone. A second research initiative has also been conducted looking at the accountability of the informal urban equity information. From these two research projects, some insights have been made into the potential understanding of possible management of COVID-19 in these marginalized areas.

The key findings from previous epidemic studies include:

  1. Paucity of data and detailed information of the people residing in these areas.
  2. People from these informal settlements have strong interdependence with the population of immediately adjacent urban city.
  3. Extreme vulnerability to a wide range of potentially dangerous diseases and health issues.
  4. High levels of vulnerability to disease and undocumented ongoing health issues
  5. The level of order or chaos within the informal settlements would be very ill-defined to outsiders although it maybe very apparent and structured for the local residents.

A lack of demographic data

There are very large data gaps as the slums are very informal in layout and in many instances are illegal settlements. These two factors impede the collection of local data of the population living in such areas. It is so randomly organized that it is difficult to implement effective health and sanitary measures. There are no official population statistics of the number of persons actually living in these areas. Because there is no demographic data, it is impossible for epidemiological models to predict the likely spread of infectious disease.

Interdependence with adjacent urban centers

The informal settlement may even butt right up to a formal urban settlement. The residence of the informal settlement may have very close ties and associations within the formal settlement in terms of employment, both casual and regular in its nature of commitment and financial reimbursements.

This association with very different socio-economic neighbourhoods with a very high level of dependency makes it very difficult to implement and enforce containment and minimization of movement as the hired hands obviously return to their shanty lifestyle at the end of the work day. The dependency of the hired workers is critical for basic survival so quarantine measures are very unlikely to be put into effect and adhered to with any degree of success.

High levels of vulnerability to disease and undocumented ongoing health issues

The occupants of informal settlements often lack general knowledge of the type of illnesses and diseases that frequent these people groups. Health providers will be from within the informal sector and may be mainly traditional and herbal, or the dispensing of pharmaceutical medicines with minimal knowledge of the substances being used. This would be particularly the case for fevers and coughs.

impact-of-covid19-informal-settlement

The majority of people will lack having health issues correctly diagnosed and treated. Therefore, the inhabitants may very likely be living with chronic health conditions. It would be reasonable to assume that there may be very large pockets of highly vulnerable individuals that if a pandemic got into the mix, their lives would be highly threatened with limited support or potential care.

Food security would be a very real problem in such communities at different times depending on natural catastrophes and their highly variable financial means. This could affect their overall state of fitness and general health.

The degree of order or chaos

The level of and degree of internal structure and hierarchy will be concealed from outsider and organizations wanting to offer aid and assistance. Likewise the leadership could be any number of different personalities ranging from traditional healer, council member, business person, youth leader, gang member, and so on.

Therefore, planning intervention measures for the pandemic would be very complex and require time to establish connections, good rapport and understanding between the people within the informal settlement with organizations offering medical advice and services for handing the pandemic.

These living conditions could place the inhabitants at frequent occurrence of natural disasters and life threatening situations such as cholera, influenza, flooding, mudslides, and many other types of life threatening happenings.

Therefore, it is safe to say that community engagement would be essential but requires lead time to establish relationships and levels of trust between local residents and outside organizations wanting to work with the community.

Returning to the Covid-19 pandemic

This may well be a long-overdue turning point in many regions of the globe. Epidemics, and in this instance a pandemic, may be the trigger for the urban elite to reassess the plight of the informal settlement areas. Because there is a symbiotic dependency of both people groups and a potential threat to all lives by the poor levels of health and unsanitary living conditions, on the less desirable sector, action may finally be essential.

The threat of COVID-19 will be better managed in the more developed urban sectors. This means that the risks are both real and very high for these urban poor community groups. It may not be a favourable outcome for the present pandemic but it may open up the need for urban communities to take greater responsibilities for the informal settlement areas.

It may not be until after the passing of the pandemic, that the more structured sector will have to take more responsibility for redefining human redevelopment, ensuring improved and sustainable health conditions and standards of housing and overall living conditions in the present informal settlement area. This would be long-term improvements for the informal clusters that have been ignored for too long and must be addressed if humanity hopes to succeed through the coming centuries.

Is Lockdown a Viable Option to Control the Coronavirus in Africa?

By | | ,
3 Comments

The African nations have had plenty of recent infectious disease outbreaks such as HIV and Ebola to learn ways of tackling an epidemic. Therefore, they might be better equipped in mental fortitude to handle the current coronavirus crisis. One significant factor that the African people are aware of is that the communities must be actively involved in responding to the virus outbreak.

Some nuggets of truth already learnt from previous experience with infectious diseases is that the outbreaks can be released differently in different communities and environments. This is in part due to the social conditions of the people concerned. The second important understanding is that the control measures implemented need to be applied with the consent and full agreement of the people concerned.  helped end Ebola in West Africa in 2015

From their recent hands-on experience, epidemic control measures will only be embraced and adhered if the local people are actively involved in determining the future destiny of their own lives. This implies that even though Covid-19 is a pandemic that is spreading across almost the entire globe, it can also be considered as a series of localized epidemics that are popping up simultaneously across the globe.

The methods of transmission are the same across the globe but the speed of transmission may vary as well as the overall pattern of spread. These variations can be observed and the differences observed between densely populated lower-income township areas compared with less-dense, mid-level suburban neighbourhoods. Likewise, the spread of infection will be markedly different in refugee and displaced persons camps. The spread will be different again amidst nomadic people.

The social behaviour of the African people are of great importance in their cultural settings. These behaviours include greetings, mixing and mingling across generations as a normal daily practice, as well as the variation in physical distancing and hand washing procedures.

The international recommendations for dealing with the transmission of infectious diseases is largely determined by westernized, middle and upper class people groups centralized in urban dwellings with ample natural resources such as fresh, clean water within their living abodes, personal means of transportation, indoor living and working environments, and so forth.

African nations tackle the spread of disease in their communities in very different ways because the aforementioned socio-economic and spatial factors. There are also very significant differences in the general health conditions of the people, and the type of medical concerns that are more prevalent in the African people.

The immunity of the people on the African continent is much weaker due to the history and prevalence of HIV condition. The fear of infection is more acute because also because many millions of people are with tuberculosis. There is also a high occurrence of malaria and severe malnutrition. Thus, it is reasonable to say that the people on the African continent are likely to be very vulnerable due to their decreased levels of immunity, and their various medical conditions which are life threatening.

In contrast to these negative factors, there is one very encouraging positive factor and that is the populations across the continent are extremely young. The are countries where up to fifty percent of the population are under the age of 30 years. There is a very small percentage of the population, less than 2%, who are over 65 years. This is a good indicator that the mortality rate could be much lower across the African continent when the coronavirus strikes in this part of the globe.

The infectious disease prediction rates and data models have been developed for the more developed westernized regions of the globe. The main epidemic control measure adopted by China, Europe and North America has been the lockdown concept enforcing self-isolation which is in itself a very long-standing traditional approach to managing infectious diseases. There is neither adequate data nor time available for enhancing the models and predictors for the African continent.

The lockdown approach also required some rigorous medical, emergency response and policing systems to already be in existence in the nations (or counties /states) within the region. The lockdown approach also required a centralized operations base which is not possible in many African nations. Nations such as South Africa and Rwanda could operate lockdowns but there would still be areas within these countries where it is not a feasible approach.

There are a number of reasons why lockdown is not a viable option to tackle Covid-19 pandemic in Africa. Many of the people are subsistence farmers so need to work in the fields. The little cash flow comes from regular sales of produce in the local market so a longterm lockdown might control the virus but will lead the people to poverty and potential starvation. The various regions are already subjected to long term droughts, swarms of locusts, and occasional flash floods, as well as long term unemployment due to very limited work opportunities. During these events, individuals and even communities are dependent on extended family members for support. This is their social security system. Therefore, a lockdown would disengage family connections and make the people more vulnerable and destitute.

Many nations are already very dependent on international aid for normal everyday living. With the present pandemic conditions, the financial aid options are threatened and will be severely reduced. Likewise, supply chain systems were also be severely threatened and reduced. The level of medical and health support across the globe is also very weak and vulnerable in comparison with those developed nations which are themselves struggling to maintain adequate medical supplies and equipment.

As significant regions of the African continent have experienced recent epidemics, there is large resources of local knowledge. The medical community and international emergency support initiatives such as Doctors without Borders have medical data for trends and patterning of the spread of disease in these communities while the local communities are able to provide contextual and cultural information. Together, these data sources can be brought together to identify applicable methods used in the recent decades of managing the outbreak of diseases in this region of the globe.

Therefore, the African nations will need to design and tailor their response to the corona virus in such away that it addresses their specific needs based on their demographics and medical conditions of the people.

Climate Change in the Holy Quran: Perspectives

By | | ,
Leave a comment

Imagine being stuck in the middle of the desert, with little or no water and all of a sudden you completely submerged in an Ocean. Covered from more than head to toe in water. Springs gushing forth from where there used to be ovens and all havoc breaking loose, with only one ship. Not a single flood barrier in sight nor the ability to be able to capture the rainwater for use later on. This is a glimpse of what it must have been like for the people of Prophet Nuh (AS). In the process he also lost his own family members. The Almighty told him to build his Ark and the people mocked him, but he listened and obeyed.

Quranic verses about climate change

The story of Nuh (A.S) shows us an excellent example of climate change in the Holy Quran. It also highlights to us the impact which flooding can have on society and focuses on effort and not necessarily results. This is clear in the fact that Nabi Nuh preached to his people for almost 1000 years, yet very few accepted the message.

“We did indeed send Noah to his people and he lived among them a thousand years save fifty. Eventually the Flood overtook them while they were engaged in wrongdoing”. Quran (29:14)

One thing that stands out for sure in the entire lesson is that we need to look at the Ark as a sign of hope. There will always be a tool for us to use if we are truthful and steer the course

One other Flood in the Holy Quran, which also had major impacts, was that of Musa (A.S). This is highlighted in the Quran:

“Then We afflicted them with a great flood and locusts, and the lice, and the frogs, and the blood. All these were distinct signs and yet they remained haughty. They were a wicked people.” Quran (7:133)

This leads us to think about the dynamic interplay between events like flooding and disease and how we really need to examine the way we are studying science. We should actually be taking approaches related to multi and interdisciplinary work with large teams of various scientists from numerous backgrounds tackling big problems to solve them holistically.

The story of Yusuf (A.S) is the only one in the entire Quran which occurs in one surah of the Quran, in order from start to  finish This can be seen in Surah 12 of the Holy Quran. The verses pertaining  to the climate variability could be seen as :

And the king said: Lo! I saw in a dream seven fat kine which seven lean were eating and seven green ears of corn other (seven) dry. O notables! Expound for me my vision, if he can interpret dreams. They answered: Jumbled dreams! And we are not knowing in the interpretation of dreams. And of the two who was released and (now) at length remembered, said : I am going to announce unto you the interpretation,  therefore send me forth. (And when he came to Joseph in the prison, he exclaimed): Joseph! O thou truthful one! Expound for us the seven fat kine which seven lean were eating and the seven green ears of corn and other (seven) dry, that I may return unto the people so that they may know. He said: Ye shall sow seven years as usual, but that which ye reap, leave it in the ear, all save a little which ye eat. Then after that will come seven hard years which will devour all that ye have prepared for them, save a little of that which ye have stored. Then, after that, will come a year when the people will have plenteous crops and when they will press (wine and oil) “(Quran 12: 43-49)

The analysis of the dreams occurs in the latter verse with a further analysis suggesting that grain should be stored in the seven good years for the seven tough years. Furthermore, after the seven years of drought a good year will occur with plentiful water and in turn good crops of olives and grapes for people to process oil and wine. This is not in the dream nor part of its interpretation but was used by Yusuf (A.S) to garner hope for the population.

climate-change-lebanon

The Quran shows us, by means of   case studies, what the effects of climate change can be as well as how to minimise the impacts thereof. The stories of Nuh (A.S), Yusuf (A.S) and Musa (A.S) have numerous lessons. These should spill over into our lives and we could make a major impact in terms of saving this beautiful planet of ours and being the vicegerent the Almighty wants us to be.

It also seems as if two distinct patterns of Climate Change could be deduced. The first pattern was a slow persistent change in climate, like the event affecting Yusuf (A.S). The second pattern, in the case of Musa (A.S) as well as Nuh (A.S), was a sudden one in the form of a flood. It also seems as if the modern data favours more intensive climatic changes, but it could also be said that the effects are likely to be erratic.

It should however be noted that the decisions made by human beings in certain instances without proper planning and consultation could have these types of disastrous impacts. This can be seen in instances whereby construction has occurred alongside rivers, knowingly that the river spills its banks on a regular basis.

The Question we should be asking ourselves in a modern context is – What is our Ark in the desert? What do we need to build in order to be resilient to the impacts of Climate Change?