Thursday, September 20, 2007 ESI mapping to pinpoint specific threats to Gulf By Carlo P. Mallo
THE ongoing environmental sensitivity index mapping of the Davao Gulf will be a major tool for the agriculture sector on how best to ensure sustainable development and stem the destruction it is contributing to the highly diverse gulf.
Offhand, the major threats to the gulf's resources are agricultural activities, coastal communities, and overfishing.
In an interview Wednesday with Davao Gulf Management Council (DGMC) chair Leonardo Avila III, he said the DGMC is currently conducting an Environment Sensitivity Index (ESI) mapping on Davao City and the four other provinces that surround the Davao Gulf.
The ESI mapping was made possible with funding from the World Wildlife Fund and the Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation.
"With the ESI mapping, we would be able to help agricultural corporations to improve their business," Avila said.
He said they are not trying to scare away investors from the agricultural industry but instead would want to create a sustainable environment for both the agricultural sector and nature.
"What we are against is not the agricultural sector, it is the improper agricultural practices that some companies do," Avila said.
He added that the best strategy for agricultural companies is to protect the environment as they are the very first ones who would be affected by its destruction. "If they are water intensive, they should be the first to protect the watersheds," Avila said.
Avila believes that businesses would not be investing millions to stay for only a couple of years.
"Agricultural businesses are there for the long haul... not only for five years, but for at least 20 years," Avila added.
He said what is important is to drive the economy and at the same time protect the environment.
