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Industrial Scale Maize Cultivation a Major Contributor to Thailand’s Toxic Haze Problem

Industrial Scale Maize Cultivation a Major Contributor to Haze Problem

Satellite data analysis has indicated that industrial scale maize growing for animal feed, one of the two main causes of annual toxic haze in Thailand and tow other Lower Mekong countries, has increased on a gigantic scale.

Since 2015, more than 11.8 million rai (4.7 million acres) of forested land in Thailand, Myanmar, and Lao PDR have been transformed to make way for maize production, according to Greenpeace Southeast Asia’s latest study, issued on Sept. 6.

The paper examines land-use changes in Myanmar’s Shan state, Thailand’s eight northern provinces, and seven Lao provinces in the Lower Mekong area, all of which have had transboundary haze problems in recent years, primarily as a result of wildfires and widespread agricultural burning.

More than 1 million rai (395,000 acres) of the region’s forest was lost to maize growing between 2021 and mid-2023 alone, Tara Buakamsri, the country director for Greenpeace Thailand, told Radio Free Asia. That’s more than 220,000 soccer fields, or more than twice the area of New York City.

Northern Lao PDR experienced the greatest amount of forest encroachment, with around 5.7 million rai (2.2 million acres) converted to maize farms since 2015. Shan state in Myanmar lost 3.1 million rai (1.2 million acres) of forest, whereas northern Thailand lost 2.9 million rai (1.1 million acres) to maize cultivation.

“Mass maize farming is shifting from northern Thailand to Myanmar and Laos, where the political situation makes it more difficult for us to monitor and engage with local communities,” Tara explained.

According to Greenpeace, maize growing expanded by more than 38% between 2015 and 2023, from 13 million rai (5.1 million acres) to 18 million rai (7.1 million acres) – nearly the size of Belgium.

Maize Burning Hotspots

According to the survey, the hot spots – places with fires based on satellite data – in maize growing areas during the cultivation season increased from 31% in 2020 to 41% this year.

Forest fires were responsible for another 42% of this year’s hot spot. The remainder was rice paddy and other crop plantation hotspots.

“Our study shows that the maize industry continues to play a key role in destroying forests in the Mekong sub region,” Tara added.

“It is also primarily to blame for the toxic air pollution that has become an annual occurrence.” It shouldn’t have been a ‘haze season’ at the start of the year every year.”

Those responsible for worsening air pollution

According to the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand are among the top 30 countries with the worst air pollution.

According to EPIC’s Air Quality Life Index, Myanmar’s fine particle PM2.5 count was around 35 micrograms per cubic metre (g/m3), seven times higher than the World Health Organization’s air quality recommendation.

PM2.5 levels in Lao PDR were around 27 g/m3, while in Thailand they were around 23 g/m3.

Toxic haze Chiang Rai Thailand

Maize Burning a Major Factor to Northern Thailands’ Toxic Haze

Earlier this year, toxic haze enveloped several parts in northern Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos for weeks due to out-of-control wildfires and agricultural burning, with more than 2 million people hospitalised in Thailand alone with respiratory difficulties.

According to experts, the region’s crop cultivation season’s deteriorating air pollution began around two decades ago, when Thailand imposed zero tariffs on maize imported from Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia to assist the cross-border contract farming programme.

Thailand is one of the world’s major manufacturers of animal feed, as well as one of the largest producers of pig and poultry. Maize is the main ingredient, accounting for more than one-third of the animal feed.

Despite the haze, many maize farmers in the region continue to burn the remnants since it is the simplest way to remove the stubble before planting. Experts have told RFA that smallholder farmers should not be criticised only because they lack alternatives.

“We observe heavily indebted and disempowered farmers with weak land tenure, severe soil erosion, constantly engaged in land conflicts with the state, virtually forced to encroach on forests, and blamed by society for widespread air pollution at a regional level,” one research paper published this month in the journal Resources, Environment, and Sustainability said.

“In this system, the corporate players win, while farmers and the environment lose.”

Myanmar’s maize cultivation

PM2.5 Dust Pollution at Toxic Levels in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Myanmar military officials did not respond to multiple requests for comment from RFA. Khun Thein Maung, Shan state’s junta-appointed government spokeswoman, told RFA that local government officials from Myanmar and Thailand are discussing the problem.

“There was no burning on our side.” “There is no proof,” he claimed, adding that maize plantation areas have risen by a few acres but have not “doubled or tripled” to meet demand for local animal feed and foreign export.

“The residents profit from it. Farmers profit from their operations. It helps the region’s socioeconomic life,” he stated, adding that no large agro-industry is engaged.

According to a Shan state-based environmental activist who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, maize farming expanded during the previous NLD administration.

“Shan state accounts for 49% of Myanmar’s maize cultivation, accounting for 55% of total production.” “However, little has been done to educate local farmers about shifting cultivation and stubble burning, which frequently causes forest fires,” he said.

In Laos, the “government has taken strict measures to reduce slash-and-burn cultivation,” according to an official from Oudomxay Province’s agriculture and forestry department.

“The provincial authorities in northern Laos have issued notices telling farmers to stop burning forest and to prevent the forest fire from spreading.”

The Thai government did not react to requests for comment from RFA, with some officials claiming that they are awaiting policy orders from the newly constituted government. The five Lower Mekong governments developed the Chiang Rai Plan of Action in 2020, with the goal of reducing hotspots by 30% and 40% by 2023 and 2025, respectively.

However, according to Greenpeace data, the number of hotspots has climbed slightly, from 161,728 in 2020 to 162,218 in 2023. Tara called it “a complete policy failure” on the part of the administrations.

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First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

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5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

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Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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