World Religions – Buddhism

The idea of a â€Å"union of opposites† pervades Taoist writings and exerts a tremendous influence over the root philosophical concepts of Taoism, encompassing issues which may be considered metaphysical or even mystical, but also influencing issues of applied ethics and personal behavior.The idea of conjoined opposites begins at the root, metaphysical level of Taoist thought which asserts that â€Å"being and non-being give rise to each other†; a stark departure from Christianity which posits that God is eternal and so has always been (Chen, 1989, p.  55).This metaphysical assertion continues from the macrocosmic (universal) to the microcosmic (personal) levels, where opposites are seen to give rise to the world of motion and being: â€Å"The difficult and easy complement each other, The long and short shape each other, The high and low lean on each other, Voices and instruments harmonize with one another, The front and rear follow upon each other† (Chen, 1989 , p. 55).Following up on the universally derived union of opposites from a macrocosmic level, the Taoist asserts a union of opposites, also, within the self and in regards to personal conduct: â€Å"the sage manages affairs without action,† and therefore should practice â€Å"creative quietude† in pursuit of personal wisdom and even ambition. The idea that opposites are, in nature, united through the Tao means that moral divisions are also damaging and artificial.The true sage accomplishes merit † without claiming merit† and since â€Å"he does not claim merit, His merit does not go away† (Chen, 1989, p. 55). Such seeming paradoxes are often difficult for Westerners to understand The idea that the universe itself could be comprised of a union of opposites, rather than a pervading and omnipotent single-Creator is not compatible with idea of Christianity which elevates a dualistic vision of the universe with good and evil at odds with one another and a single, benevolent God.Taoism seems to reflect a much more organic and complete of vision, at least in my opinion although the extension of Taoist philosophies into western religion is probably not something which will happen any time soon, such a â€Å"union of opposites† would provide a rich synthesis of spiritual and philosophical ideas. References Chen, E. M. (1989). The Tao Te Ching: A New Translation with Commentary (1st ed. ). St. Paul, MN: Paragon House.

Case Study Of Mercury Poisoning In Canada Environmental Sciences Essay

Between 1962 and 1970, the Wabigon river which was considered as a really of import fresh water resource in the north-western portion of Ontario, and a major beginning of nutrient supply for the people of Grassy Narrows and the Wabasseemoong First Nation communities was poisoned when a mush and paper factory industry known as Dryden paper factory, situated in the North of the river was believed to hold pumped about 10 metric tons of quicksilver into the river with the permission of the Ontario government.. Until 1970, the Ojibwe and other Aboriginal communities along the English-Wabigon River had built their support around this river for nutriment and economic activities. The people were nevertheless shocked with a CBC intelligence on November 1, 1970 that this vitalizing H2O was besides a beginning for possible decease through quicksilver toxic condition. This paper provides a reappraisal of the wellness effects of quicksilver poisoning on open people and how this goes a long manner to impact their manner of life. The paper will besides look at the intercessions put in topographic point by the authorities, whether those policies were helpful and what could hold been done otherwise. The paper will besides reexamine the available ordinances in Canada protecting people from such unsafe elements. A reappraisal was conducted seeking informations bases every bit good as utilizing indexes of published documents to understand the wellness effects. Contamination of quicksilver comes from natural and artificial/industrial beginnings. Naturally, this component appears in little concentrations in many stones, dirts, air and H2O around the universe ( Environment Canada ) . It has been shown that the worst signifiers of quicksilver taints have all resulted from human activities such as damping of industrial wastes which contain quicksilver in H2O organic structures and the usage of quicksilver in the excavation industry. Mercury has a long standing history of wellness effec ts among open citizens and has been associated with neurological, cardiovascular, immune system, cardinal nervous system, and kidney jobs every bit good as many other wellness results ( Passos & A ; mergler, 2008 ) . In small-scale gold excavation, gold is extracted utilizing quicksilver merger therefore presenting a considerable menace to both human and environmental wellness ( Spiegel, Savornin, Shoko, & A ; Viega, 2006 ) . Viega et Al ( 2006 ) as cited in Mohapatra and Mohapatra ( 2009 ) states that artisanal and small-scale gold excavation remains the largest planetary user of quicksilver and is still increasing largely in developing states. Findingss have revealed that elevated quicksilver exposure rates among the exposed are straight related to negative wellness results. In a late published study of Dr. Harada, a Nipponese quicksilver expert reveals that the people of Grassy Narrows and whitedog modesty are worse off than they were in 40 old ages ago when he foremost visited t he community to analyze the impacts of quicksilver poisoning on the people. Two of such communities that have suffered from quicksilver taint are Grassy Narrows and whitedog first states reserve in northwesterly Ontario, Canada.IntroductionMercury is a powerful toxin, exposed people all over the universe at serious hazard. Many surveies have confirmed mercury toxicity among specific populations and assorted environmental compartments ( National Research Council, 2000 ) . Health outcomes among open populations have been shown to be straight correlated with quicksilver exposure in the environment ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . The intent of this reappraisal is to critically measure the recent studies affecting exposure degrees to quicksilver of Grassy Narrows and whitdog community of Northwestern Ontario and the associated wellness results on the people. Between 1962 and 1970, the traditional life styles of these two Northwestern Ontario First Nations communities ( Grassy Narrows and whitedog ) were harmfully affected by quicksilver taint due to a chemical works upstream from their communities ( CBC, 1970 ) . The primary effects of quicksilver taint occurred in the chief basic of nutrient, fish, which had record-high degrees of quicksilver. The secondary effects of quicksilver taint affected the economic resources of these two communities when they were forced to shut their commercial piscaries and fishing ushers which rendered them unemployed ( CBC, 1970 ) . Dryden Chemicals Ltd. pumped 10 metric tons of quicksilver during this period ( 1962-1970 ) into the Wabigoon River which spread into the English River, the Winnipeg River and finally into Lake Winnipeg. This works used quicksilver to do Cl for decoloring paper. On provincial orders, Dryden Chemicals greatly restricted its quicksilver emanations in 1970 and finally halted quicksilver emanations in 1975. As indicated earlier, there are other activities in Canada such gold excavation which expose the populations of the rural communities to mecury. One of such mines located in the first state communities is the Musselwhite Mine which is owned by Goldcorp Inc ( 68 % and operator ) , and Kinross Gold Corporation ( 32 % ) . It is an belowground gold mine and processing works bring forthing about a one-fourth of a million ounces of gold yearly. It is situated on traditional First Nations land and works in partnership with First Nation communities. It is nevertheless deserving adverting that the relationships and understandings between this gold company and the First Nations have been recognized as best patterns within the excavation industry ( Musselwhite Joint Venture Mine Report, 2006 ) . Notwithstanding, all these activities straight or indirectly affect H2O organic structures and fist in peculiar, in these communities. Fishing is an activity considered by some people in Canada as leisure but for Aboriginal communities, fish ingestion is considered as portion of the civilization and this constitutes an of import beginning of support for many Aboriginal communities ( CBC, 1970 ) . Mercury exists in three signifiers ; elemental ( vapor ) , inorganic ( mercury compounds formed with other metals ) , and organic ( elemental quicksilver with C ) ( Selid, Xu, Collins, Striped Face-Collins, & A ; Zhao, 2009 ; Health Canada, 2010 ) . Beginnings of quicksilver scope from a assortment of natural beginnings, such as vents and dirts, to knowing human release activities, such as that in some excavation and other industrial operations ( Santos, Jesus, Brabo, Camara, Loureiro & A ; Macarenhas, 2000 ) . Mercury has a comparatively high vapor force per unit area, which means that it constitutes a important sum of volatile chemical being released into the air ( World Health Organization [ WHO ] , 2008 ) . Continuous exposure to contaminated air, through direct inspiration of firing amalgam or through ingestion of quicksilver contaminated merchandises, particularly fish, are easy beginning of soaking up into the lungs and other variety meats which consequences in a important sum of quicksilver related wellness effects ( WHO, 2008 ) . Miners besides have a high hazard of exposure due to direct soaking up through the tegument while managing the quicksilver. Concentrated quicksilver exposures, such as that in contaminated fish and other consumable merchandises, cause serious wellness jobs. Health effects have shown to be correlated with degree and signifier of quicksilver exposure, whether it is elemental, organic, or inorganic. Vapour is the most readily transmitted exposure tract into the organic structure, followed by inorganic exposure on tegument ( Health Canada, 2010 ) . Biomarkers and bio-monitoring are defined methods to understand degrees of environmental chemicals through hair, blood, and urine samples ( Wong & A ; Lye, 2008 ) . Biomarkers measure quicksilver concentrations and all biomarkers identified in literature are accepted as valid indexs of quicksilver exposure, although each independent marker provides a different reading of degree or type of exposure. All methods are of import in understanding proving degrees of quicksilver exposure, as most literature surveies do change on proving type. The wellness effects of quicks ilver are extremely dependent on its chemical signifier. In add-on, the definition of exposure has been defined otherwise in most literature, although as a planetary definition, it is defined as contact over clip between a individual and one or more biological, chemical, or physical agents ( WHO, 2008 ) . Harmonizing to Selid, Xu, Collins et Al ( 2009 ) , human related quicksilver emanations from the work of industries have increased with regard to natural emanations. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ( 1999 ) , as cited in Selid, Xu, Collins et Al ( 2009 ) , reported that about 80 % of anthropogenetic quicksilver emanations release elemental quicksilver into the air through industrial procedures, about 15 % of this quicksilver is released into the tellurian environment, and 5 % of anthropogenetic quicksilver emanations is carried from industrial effluent to the aquatic environment, inciting nutrient contaminations based on natural resources. Health Canada defines the blood quicksilver concentration counsel value, or threshold, of 20AAÂ µg/L for grownups. Harmonizing to this parametric quantity, any environmental quicksilver degree above this defined sum must hold follow up action to cut down the effects of human exposure ( Statistics Canada, 2008 ) . Within this paper, the Statistics Canada degree will be used as a set point in which comparings can be made. It should besides be noted that occupational exposure to mercury vapour occurs chiefly in fishing and gold excavation industries where normally people are employed ( Vahter, Akesson, Liden, Ceccatelli, & A ; Berglund, 2006 ) .History: Brief Global Picture.Globally, quicksilver toxic condition has been documented in states such as Japan ( 1953-65 ) , Iraq ( 1971-72 ) , Pakistan in 1969 and my ain state Ghana in 1969. The quicksilver toxic condition in in Japan attracted a batch of involvement. This was after some occupants of Minamata with unusual symptoms of an unkno wn disease were admitted at the Minamata Health centre in 1956. Health functionaries were able to associate this unusual disease to mercury toxic condition. An industry which used involved quicksilver in its procedures was allowed to let go of its waste into the Minamata Bay. The governments detected that people who depended on the fish and shell fish from Minamata Bay were the lone people affected by this unusual disease. It was realized that the fish and fish shell of the Bay had been poisoned with quicksilver. The usage of quicksilver nevertheless increased drastically throughout the universe after universe war two in assorted industries including the pigment, agribusiness, electrical, leather tanning and paper bring forthing industries.History of Mercury Poisoning in Canada ( Grassy Narrows and Whitedog reverves )Mercury toxic condition in Canada was accorded the necessary attending after the people of Grassy Narrows and whitedog militias were affected by this on-going threat at the clip. Grassy Narrows is a modesty located about 80km at the northeast portion of Kenora. Whitedog, on the other manus is located about 70km to the West, off the Manitoba boundary line. Wholly, there were about 850 dwellers in the two militias during the late sixtiess when the issue of quicksilver toxic condition erupted ( CBC, 1970 ) . The issue of quicksilver toxic condition of Canadian Waterss and fish became apparent to the populace in 1969 after the Federal Department of Fisheries and Forestry embarked on the commercial catching of fish from the Lakes of Cedar and Winnipeg every bit good as the Saskatchewan river and Red river, all in Manitoba ( Bligh 1970 ) . This disclosure prompted the federal authorities to inform the proprietors of the commercial fishermen and tourer centres along the English-Wabigoon river of an at hand closing of their installations because the fish in those rivers were insecure for both carnal and human ingestion. Fish in the rivers were proving really high degrees of methylmercury ( I have non finished this subdivision. Will continue after acquiring more literature )Effectss of Mercury on Exposed PopulationsOver the last three decennaries, many human wellness surveies have been executed in many communities to understand the exposure effects of quicksilver on worlds. There is a big orga nic structure of research grounds that supports a relationship between occupational exposure to mercury amongst exposed people and negative wellness results. Harmonizing to a systemic reappraisal measuring decadeaa‚Â ¬a„?s worth of informations, Passos and Mergler ( 2008 ) denote that gold mineworkers are the most critical population with the highest reported degrees of quicksilver in the universe today. However, in Canada, where little graduated table gold excavation is non common, the following most critical populations exposed to quicksilver are those who consume fish from quicksilver contaminated H2O organic structures either wittingly or unwittingly ( Health Canada, 2010 ) . Harmonizing to the wellness Canada, Canadians in general are largely non at hazard from Mercury poisoning but there is still a concern particularly for people who consume big sums of fish, marine mammals and wild game as portion of their day-to-day diet. Data was extracted to place the most prevailing wellness issues among the open people. All surveies used cohort or cross sectional designs. The most prevailing wellness consequence noted in the informations collected was neurological shortages. Some surveies attempted to understand marks and symptoms of past quicksilver toxicity, while others tested dose degree exposure as a hazard factor for future neurological effects.Neuropsychological effectsMultiple mentions, dwelling of cross sectional, cohort and equal reviewed literature were used to picture the effects of quicksilver exposure on neurological operation. Results revealed a important dose response consequence between quicksilver and neurological shortages ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . Studies including those who have used strict neurological scrutinies, found neuro-toxic effects including decreased cognitive maps, lessenings in attending or spacial public presentation, hapless leg coordination, multiple sensory troubles, shu dders, concentration troubles, insomnia, memory loss and kidney disfunction ( Counter, Buchanan, & A ; Ortega, 2005 ; National Research Council, 2000 ; Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . One independent survey, every bit good as documented findings within reappraisals, indicated that hearing loss was associated with quicksilver exposure among open populations, nevertheless it is to be noted that writers could non define whether the toxicity was purely due to occupational exposure through inspiration, or if it was through dietetic ingestion of contaminated country nutrient, such as fish ( Counter, Buchanan, Laurell, Ortega, 1998 ; Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008, National Research Council, 2000 ) . It is hard to place comparison factors from each survey as consequences were elusive amongst independent and systemic reappraisals, every bit good as most surveies did non detail biomarkers.Immune system effectsRecent surveies have narrowed focal point in on the impact quicksilver exposure has on i mmune system working. Studies defining the relationship of quicksilver exposure in the Amazon mine workers found a strong correlativity between quicksilver exposure and malaria ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . One survey reported that malaria was four times higher for those persons describing a history of working with inorganic quicksilver than those who did non ( Crompton et al, 2002 ) . A reappraisal on grounds in Amazonian excavation populations illustrate consequences consistent with other findings that quicksilver induced effects are apparent including autoimmune disfunction ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . Reports based on urinary biomarkers identified exposure rates runing from 0 to 240 AAÂ µg/L and concentrations in the blood samples varied from 0 to 30 AAÂ µg/L ( Crompton et al, 2002, Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . Harmonizing to environment Canada, because Mercury exists in three different signifiers ( gas, organic and inorganic ) , the degree of toxicity and continuity in open persons vary depending on this signifier an person is exposed to. Silva et Al ( 2004 ) documented effects of quicksilver on activated immune cells and documented the response of both redness and anti-inflammation and found significantly increased redness in those who had been exposed to inorganic quicksilver and noted that quicksilver may besides be related to other chronic auto-immune diseases such as Lupus and arthritis.Central Nervous System EffectssThe consequence of quicksilver on the cardinal nervous system has been extensively studied in high and low-dose exposures. However, much of the literature identified within the context of the systemic reappraisals. As portion of this reappraisal, the initial surveies are non included due to the day of the months completed, nevertheless, it is to be noted that Passos and Mergler ( 2008 ) and the National Research Centre ( 2000 ) found that several marks and symptoms related to the cardinal nervous system shortages are evidentia ry characteristics of chronic high-dose exposures to Mercury in grownups. These included centripetal damage of the appendages, perturbation of equilibrium, and subjective symptoms such as concern, musculus and joint hurting, forgetfulness, and weariness ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ; National Research Council, 2005 ) .Cardio-vascular effectsMercury accumulates in the bosom, and exposures have been associated with blood force per unit area alterations and unnatural cardiac operation ( National Research Council, 2000 ) . Based on the inclusion standards of the reappraisal, merely three surveies evaluated quicksilver exposure and cardio-vascular effects ( Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ; Fillion, Mergler, Passos, Larribe, Lemire, & A ; Guimaraes, 2006 ) . Numerous surveies of cardiovascular effects have been referenced in the systemic reappraisals, although all autumn outside inclusion standards for this reappraisal. One independent survey by Kobal et Al, found that chronic exposure in pop ulations has been implicative of cardiovascular toxicity, nevertheless grounds is non clear ( Kobal, Horvat, Prezelj Briski, Krsnik, Dizdarevic et Al, 2004 ) . Other surveies reported high blood pressure and unnatural bosom rate among open workers ( National Research Council, 2005 ) . It should be noted that all surveies, including those within the systemic reappraisal, reported or referenced that higher blood force per unit area was significantly related to high quicksilver degrees. It is besides to be noted that the biomarker agencies could non be used as they varied within each survey and were non comparable.Kidney mapsThe kidneys are sensitive to mercury following inspiration exposure. Several probes have found nephritic alterations in populations inveterate exposed to mercury toxic condition ( National Research Council, 2000 ; WHO, 2008 ; Passos & A ; Mergler, 2008 ) . One survey done in 1993 measured 50 workers in a cohort survey looking at exposure degree differences on kidne y eliminations between mining workers and control workers ( Cardenas, Roels, Bernard, Barbon, Buchet, Lauwerys, et Al, 1993 ) . The statistical analysis resulted in workers egesting a average quicksilver degree of 22 mcgs over 11 old ages ( Cardenas, 1993 ) . The chief nephritic alterations associated with the exposure to mercury were chiefly found in workers egesting more than 50 micrograms/g and resulted in increased escape of cannular enzymes and antigens and biochemical changes ( Cardenas, 1993 ) . Health Canada besides acknowledges that quicksilver toxic condition can be really damaging to babies, particularly when the toxicant is easy passed on to the babies through chest milk. This is based on the fact that the nervous system of babies and kids is really sensitive to mercury and a minimum exposure can do symptoms such as reduced IQ, delays in walking and speaking, deficiency of coordination, sightlessness and ictuss. The findings of quicksilver toxic condition in grownups postulated by wellness Canada is consistent with the reappraisals I have done with few add-ons. High exposures of grownups to mercury poisoning leads to detrimental jobs such as personality alterations, shudders, alterations in vision, hearing loss, loss of musculus coordination and esthesis, memory loss, rational damage and in some instances decease ( Health Canada, 2010 )Effectss on the people of Grassy Narrows and Whitedog militiasAssociating the inauspicious effects of the quicksilver exposure in Grassy Narrows and Whitedog militias, the effects manifested in two creases. The primary effects of the taint occurred in the chief basic of nutrient and fish, which had record-high degrees of quicksilver ( Harada et al, 1976 ) . The secondary effects affected the economic resources of these two communities when they were forced to shut their commercial fishing activity which rendered huge figure of people unemployed ( CBC, 1970 ) . The open communities were affected by a disease known as Minamata disease ( Named after a unusual disease which affected the people of Minamata in Japan after terrible quicksilver toxic condition ) . Minamata disease is a neurological syndrome caused by terrible quicksilver toxic condition. The symptoms of this disease were noticed in the late sixtiess among the people in Grassy Narrows and whitedog first state communities. As indicated earlier, the symptoms being experienced were similar to that which occurred in Minamata, Japan after the terrible quicksilver toxic condition in that community. Most Nipponese physicians who had been involved in analyzing this disease came to Grassy Narrows and the whitedog community merely to recognize that the quicksilver degrees in the bloods of the dwellers measured between 100ppb and 200ppb, far transcending the wellness Canada bound ( commission for Native concerns, 2007 ) . Harmonizing to Harada et Al ( 1976 ) , the people had symptoms such as centripetal perturbations, narrowing of the ocular field, impaired hearing, unnatural oculus motions, shudder, impaired balance and hapless articulation of address.

Beyond the Scenery

The summer sun beamed down, making the bright daisies sparkle and shimmer like tiny stars. My hand grazed the familiar sunset pink journal, gliding over the faded rough edges. My big muddy brown eyes gazed at the sky filled with white puffy clouds. Gusts of wind blew throughout the park, dandelion puffs flying throughout the sky. Crystal waters stained the ground as a family of geese softly swam atop. The water was a clear blue, matching the shade of my mother’s eyes. With every splash, the baby geese would come closer together. The mother goose led them to still water, making sure her children would be alright, reminding me of my own mother. My mom would pick me up, and smile at my face full of innocence. I would be wearing a beautiful gown, and end up getting it covered in birthday cake. I would dance around the room, my older sister and brother running about. Then my mother would say, â€Å"You can do whatever you want to do, my baby girl.† She handed me a notebook that day, and ever since, I’ve never stopped writing. Soon, The flashback blurred, my mind slowly returning to the park. My eyes drifted away from the pond, looking up at the oddly shaped clouds. A giraffe-shaped and an elephant-shaped cloud flew across the sky, bringing me back to when I was only 12 years old. â€Å"Let’s build a fort!† I shouted, sitting up off the grassy floor. My friends looked up at me, their eyes sparkling as if I had ignited some sort of firework. Right away, we all started getting to work. I rolled up my sleeves, my sturdy overalls warm for the cold journey ahead. My fingers became sappy as I collected fallen branches and leaves. Autumn had taken a toll on the trees leaving the sky an odd mix of purple and blue with streaks of silver. I pulled out my notebook, scribbling down our blueprints. One hour later, my plan had worked! Our fort stood tall, shining bright during the cold fall. All my friends giggled as we laid down in our fort gazing at the clouds through the cracks of our tiny roof. Suddenly, my mind drifted back to reality once more. My body lurched forward, standing up and stretching. I looked around for another cloud, but ended up staring off at the many trees around me. The sun began to set, the trees at a silent standstill. Small children climbed up the trunks, the leaves a bright shade of green, matching the grass below. I sat back down, noticing the sapling beside me. It had a short brown stem adorned with a green top, it still had a lot of growing to do, just like me. I want to learn more. I want to travel more, to places like Italy and France. I could write about all of the places I see and work it into my fiction and fantasy. I want to have my novels inspire others to life lives of adventure. I want to write poems about oddly shaped clouds. I want to host a party where everyone just plays silly board games. I want to write literature where people feel my own characters’ emotions. I want to grow. A smile found it’s way to my face, my hand reaching out for my pink notebook. This notebook has been with me for a long time, it’s filled to the brim with stories and ideas. The smell of ink wafted through my nose, a sense of reli ef washing over me as one last gust of wind blew throughout the humble scenery.

Critical Analysis of the Trends in Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) in the Term Paper

Critical Analysis of the Trends in Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) in the United States - Term Paper Example The context factors act as Vehicle Mile Travelled (VTM) growth drivers. They include legal/political climate, family structure, social/cultural conditions and technological, economical and institutional structure of the American society. The discussion provided for the impact of the outlined factors is one-sided. Most of factors such as decentralization of companies can have either effect. Travel requirements decreases as a person ages due to the decrease in the activity level and decrease in work related travels. Contrary to the earlier arguments, the aging factor does not increase or reduce the VMT. This is because the decreased levels caused by the aging population are countered by the increasing travel levels caused by the maturing young adults. However, the improved health, wealth and higher licensing rates for the elder women have curtailed the reduction in the rates of mobility for the older generation. The argument on the aging factor overlooked the impact of the economic gro wth on the VMT. This reduces the rate of VMT. Changes in the nature of work will reduce VMT because most of the employment agencies and individuals are applying the use of computer technology to enhance production. Most of the workers can work from home and avoid travelling to their work places. Most institutions of higher learning are also leaning towards introducing online lessons. This will reduce the travel requirements for most students. Decentralization of companies to rural areas can also contribute into the reduction in the VMT because companies may be located near the workforce thus, negating the travel necessity. Finished goods will be brought near retailers and consumers negating the necessity of travelling over long distance to acquire them. The impact of the aging population is reasonable because the travelling tendency of a person is dependent on the activity level. The travel frequency increases as a person matures to middle age. Children may not directly produce VMT but they increase the travel demands for their parents. The middle aged adults would directly increase the VMT as they are in the peak levels of the work related travel. It is notable that the prevalence of dispersed suburban environments and more working parents have made many teenagers rely on auto-travel to and from school. The rise in the fuel prices will generally lead to the reduction in the VMT. However, changes will be insignificant because most people are forced to drive to and from work regardless of the oil prices. Stabilization of workforce participation rates may have either impacts i.e. it can reduce or increase VMT. The increase of women workforce may lead to the increase in the need for travel. However, the rate may still reduce because the involvement of women does not signify an addition in the work force. They just fill the vacancies that would have been filled by anyone, meaning that the number of the workforce is preserved as well as their travel needs. The impa ct of most of the outlined factors is dependent on the changes in other factors. For instance, changes in the increase in the cost of driving may increase VMT in case of the future growth in the economy and income levels (Ewing 2007). Changes in manufacturing and distribution and trends in the cost of real property are the two opposing factors that can lead to increase in VMT. The decentralization of industries due to the enhancement of new

Capitalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

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CVP Analysis Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

CVP Analysis - Research Paper Example In order to bring a revolution in the existing business practices of the company, it is important that a new pricing strategy is devised that is based on the strategic objectives of each product individually. Furthermore, the decisions for the allocation of funds for the Research & Development (R&D) of each product should be taken individually and on annual basis to achieve the desired objectives of the product and the company. However, my strategic decision making for each year has resulted into 60% profitability in case of product X5 and 50% profitability in case of product X6. Furthermore, the increased spending on maintenance, support, enhancement and discovery for product X5 and X6 showed improved product which resulted in higher customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the discontinuation of product X7 through the four years helped in the success of the first two products. Nonetheless, a new strategy needs to be determined using contemporary strategy determining tools like Cost-Volu me-Profit (CVP) analysis. 1.1 Aim The aim of this report is to discuss the new pricing and R&D allocation strategy for the core products X5, X6 and X7 using CVP analysis and calculator. 1.2 Objectives To analyse the subsequent performance and life cycles of each product due to the difference in the decisions. To determine the new pricing decisions and R&D budget allocation strategy for each core product, namely: X5, X6 and X7 taken in 4 years (i.e. from 2012-2015). To provide rationale of the proposed strategy with theoretical support. 2 Analysis of Pricing and R&D Allocation Strategy Used in Phase 2 2.1 Penetration Pricing Strategy In order to enter into the established marketplace, Tablet Development Corp. has to undertake the penetration pricing strategy. A penetration pricing strategy is used when the company has to enter into an established marketplace and to attract the market in a substantial manner through low-pricing techniques. In the year 2012, the price of product X5 was set at the lowest possible price of $180 and it was increased by $5 every year. Similarly, the price of X6 was set at $300 only and was increased by $10 each year. The product X7 was discontinued in four years. 2.2 R&D Budget Allocation Strategy Strategic distribution of the R&D budget over the years is key to the success. Therefore, only first two R&D activities require substantial investments whereas the last two requires little investment to keep it going. The R&D budget allocation was increased for product X5 and X6 in the subsequent years whereas, product X7 was allocated less percentage of the R&D budget. The less amount shows the R&D allocations for the maintenance of product X7. 3 Determining New Strategy for Core Products of Tablet Development Corporation Apple Inc. and Microsoft have been involved in developing new products on a regular basis. In this wake they incurred fixed costs related to R&D expenditures and other costs of new product development. In order to remain competitive in the global marketplace, they adopted a new method to determine the prices and R&D allocations for multiple products on a unit cost basis (Morse, 2003). They assumed that the costs of all the products will remain fixed and thus, determine a profit or a loss situation for the new product. The

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Decision Making in Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

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Late-2000s recession Essay Example for Free

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Factors Affecting Tea Production Schemes

Factors Affecting Tea Production Schemes FACTORS AFFECTING FARMERS’ CHOICE REGARDING PRODUCTION SCHEMES OF TEA PRODUCTION IN PHU THO PROVINCE, VIETNAM I. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Since the economic reform named â€Å"Doi moi† in 1986, Vietnamese economy transformed from centrally-planned economy to socialist-oriented market economy. Thanks to the reformation, Vietnam gained remarkable achievements in economic development. In period from 1986-2010, annual per capital GDP growth of Vietnam was 5.3%, staying at the second to the fastest GDP growth rate among Asian countries (McKinsey Global Institute, 2012). Consequently, poverty rate has declined significantly from approximately 70% at the end of 80th decade to about 10% in 2004 and Vietnam became a low middle-income country in 2008 (Tran, 2013). Along with the development of economy, agricultural sector has experienced improvement and contributed significantly to overall economy. Production value of agriculture, forestry and aquaculture in 2012 according to constant price in 1994 was 255.2 thousand billion dong, increasing 3.4% compared to 2011. Moreover, export value of agricultural and forestry produc ts reached 17.7 billion USD in 2012, increasing 18% compared to last previous year (General Statistics Office, 2013). Tea is recognized as one of the strategic commodity for exportation of Vietnam. In particular, in 2012, Vietnam exported about 146.7 thousand tons of tea and export value was 224.6 million USD, increasing 8.67% in terms of quantity and 9.29% in terms of export value compared to 2011 (GSO, 2013). Vietnam is the fifth largest exporter of tea in the world after India, China, Sri Lanka, and Kenya in terms of export volume. Export market of Vietnamese tea ara Pakistan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Russia, China, USA, etc. In order to have such achievement in terms of export, tea production has expanded over last 12 years. In 2001, harvested area of tea in Vietnam was 74.7 thousand ha and it was expanded to 115.8 thousand ha in 2012, compound annual growth rate for the period 2001-2012 was 4.06%. Meanwhile, compound annual growth rate for tea production in such period was 7.8%, from 340.5 thousand tons in 2001 to 923.1 thousand tons in 2012 (GSO, 2013). Tea is planted in many places in Vietnam, but mainly focus on five regions: Northwest (Son La, Lai Chau), Northeast (Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, Yen Bai), Northern midlands (Vinh Phuc, Phu Tho, Bac Can, Bac Giang, Thai Nguyen, Nam Tuyen Quang), North Central (Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh), and Central Highlands (Lam Dong, Gia Lai, Kontum). 1.2 Statement of the Problem Phu Tho is an upland province located in Northeast of Vietnam. This region has high poverty rate of Vietnam with 17.39% in 2012 (MOLISA, 2013). In which, the poverty rate of Phu Tho province in 2011 was 17% (GSO, 2012). Thanks to natural conditions that are favorable for tea production, tea product from this region has been well-known in Vietnam. Tea production plays an important role in economic production of Phu Tho province. Tea production has been expected to created job opportunities and enhanced income of tea farmers. In order to encourage tea sector in local area, Phu Tho province has many favorable policies, programs to support farmers regarding seeds, fertilizers, techniques, extension services, and so on. Specifically, decision 23/2001/QÄ -UBND dated 20th December 2011 of People Committee of Phu Tho province mentioned support of agricultural programs in period 2012-2011, including tea commodity. However, tea production in Phu Tho province still has existing problems. Tea productivity is low due to old tea trees. In 2011, average productivity of tea in Phu Tho province was only 0.84 ton/ ha (Quoc, 2013). Furthermore, the problem of overuse of pesticides also brings about low quality of tea products. Moreover, the integration in production and consumption among farmers and tea processing enterprises in Phu Tho province is weak. Last but not least, tea farmers lack of knowledge and skills of modern production techniques and harvesting techniques as well. According to Thang, et al (2004), tea farmers have 4 different classifications including: unlinked farmers, contract farmers, worker farmers, and cooperative farmers. Corresponding with that are 4 schemes of production: Individuals, contract farming, waged agricultural workers and cooperatives. However, Wal (2008) stated that there are three main schemes of production corresponding to three types of tea producers in Vietnam: individual farmers (mostly smallholders), contracted farmers and worker farmers. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The main objective of the study is to determine factors that affect famers in selection of production schemes of tea production in Phu Tho province, Vietnam. Moreover, this study specifically aims to: + Identify the production schemes of tea farmers in Phu Tho province. + Identify difficulties and opportunities of farmers in each type of tea production; and + Recommend solutions that would help farmers to promote tea production and to improve their livelihood. 1.4 Significance of the Study The study of â€Å"Factors affecting farmers’ choice regarding production schemes of tea production in Phu Tho province, Vietnam† would help local officials and policy makers to have better understanding about those types of tea production. Therefore, appropriate policies would be recommended. Then, tea production and livelihoods of tea farmers in Phu Tho province would be improved. II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 2.1 Review of contract farming 2.1.1 Definition of contract farming Contract farming has been applied all over the world for long time and there are many definitions about contract farming from different scientists and studies. Eaton and Shepherd (2001) stated that contract farming is a kind of agreement which farmers and processing or marketing firms agree with each other in integration regarding production and supply of agricultural products at fixed prices. Contract farming is also considered as a form of vertical integration in agricultural commodity chains. The firms, therefore, would have better control over production, quantity, quality, and the time to decide what commodity is produced (Prowse, 2012). 2.1.2 Types of contract farming The form of contract farming can vary in reality depending on the agreement of farmers and firms. According to Eaton and Shepherd (2001), contract farming can be divided into five models: The centralized model; the nucleus estate model; the multipartite model; the informal model; and the intermediary model. The centralized model: This is a kind of vertical integration where the firm purchases products from farmers and the firms will process and market the products. This kind of contract farming is often applied for tobacco, cotton, sugar cane, bananas, coffee, tea, cocoa and rubber. The extent of the involvement of the firms is diversified. The firms can provide only seed or provide land preparation, seeds, fertilizers extension services, and so on. The nucleus estate model: The firms have their own estate plantation where they make a pilot model of production for particular crop. Then, the firms will introduce the techniques of such models to farmers. The model is often used for people who are resettled and transmigrated. The multipartite model: This model involves a number of stakeholders including legislative bodies with farmers. Those bodies would be international company, provincial companies, joint-venture companies, and village committees, etc. Each stakeholder with be responsible for each stage of production and marketing such as inputs, credit, processing, and marketing. The informal model: This kind of model is suitable for individual enterprises or small firms. Specifically, the firms have contracts with farmers based on season that is why such contract is applied to fresh vegetables, and tropical fruits. In this kind of model, inputs are limited to seeds and fertilizers. Apart from that, technical advices are only available for grading and quality control. The intermediary model: When it comes to this kind of contract farming, the firms usually purchase products from collectors or middlemen who have informal contract with farmers. Since collectors appear between farmers and the firms, it brings about problems of lower income for farmer, and poorer quality. 2.1.3 Benefits to farmers from contract farming Access to reliable market: Market can be considered as one of the most important issues for farmers. Farmers usually face difficulty in terms of market, they lack of information and they do not know where they can sell products with better price. Thus, farmers should know where they can sell their products before they produce it. Contract farming can help farmers to deal with this issue by linking farmers with reliable markets. This is consistent with study of Eaton and Shepherd (2001) and Setboonsarng (2008). Access to credit: Farmers often encounter problem of credit to buy inputs or to expand production. This problem for small-scale farmers is more pressing than that of large-scale farmers. Setbonarng (2008) argued that farmers are constrained to credit in developing countries, even in places where microfinance exist. This is due to the fact that bank usually offer loans to microenterprises rather than agricultural production. Consequently, many smallholders cannot access credit at all (Glover Kusterer, 1990; Hayami Otsuka, 1993). The study of Simmons (2002) also has same conclusion regarding credit issue. + Provision of inputs: By joining contract farming, farmers can be provided inputs by firms or contractors. Those inputs would be seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Provision of inputs would reduce transaction cost per unit of output (Nagaraj, et al, 2008; and Bijman, 2008). + Reduction in risk of price fluctuation: farmers, who do not have contract and often sell their products to the spot market, usually have to face price fluctuation. Contract farming would overcome this problem. This is owing to the fact that the firms would specify the price in advance and this process is made during the time of contract negotiation (Eaton and Shepherd 2001; Setboonsarng, 2008; and Baumann, 2000). + Improvement of technology: Simmons (2002) argued that in the absence of contract farming, farmers have to face high cost of gathering technical information. Frequently, contract farming requires a certain level of quality. Also, the firms would support extension services and introduce new technology to farmers in order to have better quality for the products. This is also the same with conclusion of Bijman (2008) and Eaton Shepherd (2001). 2.1.4 Empirical studies on contract farming in agriculture The situation of contract farming between Tanganda Tea Estate and farmers is an example. Tamgada Tea Company has operating an outgrower schemes for large-scale farmers for several years. Then in 1975, they started their business with small-scale farmers. The form of contract is verbal in English and vernacular and there is no definite duration for the contract. Under the agreement, the company supported inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and credit with low interest rate to farmers. The payment will be deducted at the payment of final green leaf. Company also provided free technical advice and transport services to farmers. In 1998, the company had full-time outgrower Extension Officers who help small-scale farmers to increase technical production (Woodend, 2003). Can (2008) stated that the largest contract farming in rice sector exists between Ankor Kasekam Roonoeung Co Ltd (AKR), a private company, and rice farmers. The company mostly exports Neang Mails (an aromatic Cambodian rice variety) to international market. The number of people joining the contract with the company has been increasing from 100 farmers at the beginning to 27,345 farmers in 2003 and 32,005 farmers in 2008. Under the contract, the company plays an important role in every stage of production and marketing as well. The company is the one who choose suitable area for growing rice, establish farmers associations, recruit new farmers, deliver seeds and technical support, monitor and solve problems in production, collect and purchase rice from farmers, sort and classify milled paddy into different kinds, and export to other countries including European countries, Australia, and Hong Kong. According to the contract, the company distributes Neang Mails seeds in credit to farmers in July, and then the company will buys output from October to January of the following year. The contract clearly includes the amount of seeds that the farmers have to return, the minimum prices, and penalties for contract violation. However, the contract does not include explicitly the penalties to the companies when they do not buy output of farmers at the negotiated prices. Moreover, the company establishes commune associations to support implementation of the contract. Each association has function of monitoring process and reporting to the company. Aside from that, associations also provide technical advice to their members. Setboonsarng, Leung, and Stefan (2008) had study about rice contract farming in Lao PDR. Authors mentioned a case study of contract rice farming in Vientiane province. Lao Arrowny Corporation was established in 2002, a joint venture between Lao and Japanese investors. The company produces Japanese rice and exports to Japanese expatriates in Southeast Asia. In 2004, the company had contract with approximately 2,000 farmers and total rice land of 800 ha. The criteria of the contract include three main points: farmers own their own rice land; farmers who want to become member of farmers’ association have to work hard and the decision will be given by fellow farmers; and farmers are not allowed to use chemical fertilizers in production. By implementing contract with the company, farmer will receive premium price which is included in the contract. In addition to this, the company supplies seeds, fertilizer and technical assistance. 2.2 Review of cooperatives 2.2.1 Definition of cooperatives 2.2.2 Benefits to farmers from cooperatives 2.2.3 Empirical studies on cooperatives in agriculture III. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK 3.1 Conceptual framework 3.2 Hypotheses of the study V. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Types and Sources of Data Primary data would be collected by deep interviews key informants in production chains of tea sector at Phu Tho province. Also, deep interviews will be implemented with Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Phu Tho province, Northern Mountainous Agriculture and Forestry Science Institute, etc. Moreover, Implementation of participatory rural appraisal (PRA) in order to collect general information about current situation of tea production and factors that affect choice of tea farmers among production types at Phu Tho province. Last but not least, questionnaire survey will be conducted to collect information about situation of tea production, factors that affect choice of tea farmers in production integration at Phu Tho province, constraints and opportunities of farmer in each chain of tea production. In terms of secondary data, Documents related to tea production at Phu Tho province will be collected to have better understanding of current situation of tea production at Phu Tho province. 4.2 Sampling Method Sample size will be chosen by Yamane formula (1967) as follows: Where:n = sample size N = population size e = sampling error, e = 5% Analytical Tools To analyze factors that impact farmers’ choice in production types, the multinomial logit (MNL) model will be used. Because sum of the probabilities must equal to one, we have J types of production, and therefore we have J-1 estimated equations. And the most common type of production will be chosen as reference category. According to Greene (2003), the general formula for MNL is as follows: Where: Yi is random variable that denotes the farmers’ decisions among production types. xi is 1xK vector of farmers’ characteristics. ÃŽ ²j is a Kx1 vector of parameters. From equation (1), we can compute J log-odds ratios: Marginal effects could be computed by taking derivative of equations (1) with respect to xi as follows: LITERATURE CITED BAUMANN, P., 2000. Equity and Efficiency in contract farming schemes: The experience of agricultural tree crops. Working paper 139. UK: Overseas Development Institute. BIJMAN, J., 2008. Contract farming in developing countries. CAI, J. et al., 2008. Rice contract farming in Cambodia: Empowering farmers to move beyond the contract toward independence. ADB Institute Discussion Paper No. 109. DECISION 23/2001/QÄ -UBND dated 20th December 2011 of People Committee of Phu Tho province mentioned support of agricultural programs in period 2012-2011. DECISION No. 80/2002/QD-TTg of June 24, 2002, on policies to encourage agricultural product sale via contract farming. EATON, C. and SHEPHERD, A.W., 2001. Contract farming – Partnerships for growth. FAO Agricultural Services Bulletin 145. GLOVER, D. and KUSTERER, K., 1990. Small farmers, big business: Contract farming and rural development. Macmillan, London. HAYAMI, Y. and Otsuka, K., 1993. The economics of contract choice. Oxford University Press, Oxford. MCKINSEY GLOBAL INSTITUTE, 2012. Sustaining Vietnam’s growth: The productivity challenge. MOLISA, 2013. Decision 749/QÄ -LÄ TBXH dated 13 May 2013 about approval of result of poverty household in 2012. NAGARAJ, N. and et al., 2008. Contract farming and its implications for input-supply, linkages between markets and farmers in Karnataka. PROWSE, M., 2012. Contract farming in developing countries – a review. QUOC, V., 2013. Baophutho.vn, Efficiency improvement of tea commodity in Phu Tho province: current status and solutions, [online] available at: http://baophutho.vn/kinh-te/cong-nghiep/201210/nang-cao-hieu-qua-cay-che-phu-tho-thuc-trang-va-giai-phap-2200410/> [Accessed 26th Jan 2014]. SETBOONSARNG, S., 2008. Global partnership in poverty reduction: contract farming and regional cooperation. SETBOONSARNG, S., LEUNG, P. and STEFAN, A., 2008. Rice contract farming in Lao DPR: Moving from subsistence to commercial agriculture. ADB Institute Discussion Paper No. 90. SIMMONS, P., 2002. Overview of smallholder contract farming in developing countries. THANG, T.C. et al., 2004. The participation of the poor in agricultural value chains: A case study of tea. TRAN, V.T., 2013. Vietnamese Economy at the Crossroads: New Doi Moi for Sustained Growth. WAL, S.V.D., 2008. Sustainability issues in the tea sector. A comparative analysis of six leading producing countries. WOODEND, J.J., 2003. Potential of contract farming as a mechanism for the commercialization of smallholder agriculture, the Zimbabwe case study. APPENDIX Appendix: Export volume and export value of tea commodity in period 2002-2012 GSO and trademap, 2013