Global warming is not a myth

THE effects of climate change or global warming is a fact because I have seen and experienced it.
It is happening because of our own carelessness.
From one of my trips along the Highlands Highway, I noticed that huge chunks of forest are being cleared for agricultural activities, there are continuous bush fires everywhere and several water sources are drying up, putting the livelihood of the local communities at stake.
I was also stunned to see that the famous Yonki Dam drying up.
The average temperature is increasing.
You can tell that by the rising heat as it was never so intense in the highlands.
Cash crops like coffee and vegetables are affected by the rising heat.
No wonder Eastern Highlands is facing a severe drought as natural water sources are drying up and no rain was recorded.
I think it is time now for us to act more responsibly.
We must be mindful of our own activities before the worse hit us.
I urge the national government to fund a massive tree replanting programme throughout the country and also carry out a nationwide awareness campaign on global warming and climate change.
We have to be reminded that little things add up to big things.

Walizotoka Gipa
Goroka