Philippines govt proposes biochar for mine rehabilitation

"ENVIRONMENT Secretary Gina Lopez said she was out to prove that "green economy" can provide more jobs than destructive mining even as she assured alternative livelihood opportunities to affected mine workers and their families."

"... She is also looking at the potential of biochar as a tool for mine rehabilitation. Biochar is a type of charcoal that is produced by burning only a small amount of oxygen. This enables the carbon to be absorbed by the plants and preventing it from accumulating in the atmosphere. Affected mine workers will also be tapped for reforestation activities under the Enhanced National Greening Program, as well as the government's planned expansion of bamboo and mangrove plantations to fight climate change and poverty. Under the SIAD approach, "mini economic zones" will be created in order to generate employment, livelihood and income-generating activities in communities where mining companies operate."(SDR/SunStar Philippines)

Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/02/05/lopez-green-economy-creates-more-jobs-mining-524029#brand
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