The Western Pacific Ocean has been at the center of ongoing maritime disputes that date back well over a century. Finding a balance between the interests of China and of other nations involved in these complex disputes will require cooperation and trust building. Each nation must attempt to secure its own national interests, while maintaining due regard for the interests of other nations. Most often, the best way to manage disputes is to work together.
One of the significant, negative impacts of climate change is the melting of glaciers around the globe. Glaciers are an important source of freshwater for many people, and increasing temperatures are causing glaciers to melt at unprecedented rates. While glacier melt is a global concern, anxieties are particularly high for the consequences in Asia and the glaciers of the Himalayas. Nearly half a billion people people live at the base of these mountains, and even more rely on the rivers and the lakes they feed.
Crackers, candy, shampoo, ice cream, soap, chocolate, toothpaste, margarine, protein and granola bars, make-up, laundry detergent, and biofuel. What do these everyday household items and products all have in common? Answer: They all contain palm oil. In fact, it is the most widely used vegetable oil on the planet! The oil’s potential is undeniable. However, its large-scale production comes with ecological, agricultural, and economic costs.
