posted news from scb 17-8(8)

[OKKAR66129@xxxxxxx]

Subject:	For a Safe Future
>From:	Thinzar Khine <Thinzar@xxxxxxxxxx>
Date:	Mon, 17 Aug 1998 11:13:49 +0200


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For a Safe Future
Perspectives, The NLM, Sunday, 2 August 1998

No one would be blamed for dropping a word of caution where new
industries and industrial
waste are concerned.  When there is any kind of industry, there is sure
to be some kind of
effluent, be it minor or major.

Pristine water and unspoilt natural beauty have been found to be
polluted by one kind of
industrial waste or another as many developing countries vie with others
to strive to enjoy the
benefits of development.

Industrialization is desirable.  Dumping of wastes is not.
Environmentalists who are dedicated
to keeping the land and water free from man-made pollutants and safe for
use always
advocate application of safety norms in order that industries do not
dump the wastes into non-
polluted land or water.

It troubles the conscience of environmentalists and dutiful citizens
whenever they see or hear
of pollution of any kind that endangers the health and well-being of
those who are subjected
to such wanton acts.

In many industrial nations, there are norms for waste-water treatment
before that kind of
excess can be spilled into nearby rivers.  Each and every industry
likely to produce toxic
wastes has to include provisions in planning for waste-water treatment
plants.

Yet in those very countries to which others might look as examples,
there are those who
knowingly spill wastes into rivers and creeks with impunity, so much so
these wash out to sea
bringing in hazardous toxic tides.

Clean water and clean environments are essential for both human and
animal life.  If wildlife
cannot be protected, they can transmit hazards.  The same goes with fish
and other marine
life.

As far as we in Myanmar are concerned, river pollution or pollution of
marine resources is
not as acute a problem as in some industrialized countries.

However, the quick pace of industries of one description or another
cropping up along rivers
can be very costly, if environmental concerns are neglected.  And fish
from polluted waters
can be a serious health hazard.  We must apply the essential safeguards
for a safe future.

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