Climate change Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 8250 words

Climate change - Dissertation Example Climate change is the biggest environmental problem that the world is facing today. High-intensity storms and hurricanes are hitting the United States and Australia, ice sheets in the Arctic and Antarctic regions are rapidly melting and severe droughts in Indonesia have resulted in fires razing the nation’s forests to the ground. Apart from direct destructive impacts to the environment, global warming also poses a threat to human health. Increasing amounts of rainfall will give rise to the spread of vector-borne diseases. Despite the overwhelmingly negative effects of climate change, current trends still reflect rising levels of temperature. Out of the 20 hottest years on the planet, 19 occurred from 1980 until the present. According to NASA, 2005 was the warmest year recorded for over a century (Gutro, 2006). Human activity is the primary cause of this drastic increase in the world’s temperature. The burning of fossil fuels to meet the energy demands of households, businesses, and industries is number one on the list of greenhouse gas emissions. The world’s total energy consumption is directly proportional to population levels. Simply put, the more people there are, more of world’s resources are utilized. Sustainable development is key to ensure future generations’ survival. The Kyoto Protocol aims to provide a solution the pressing problem of climate change. The United Kingdom being one of the signatories has committed to reducing carbon emissions significantly by the year 2010 (Wikipedia, 2006). ... Increasing amounts of rainfall will give rise to the spread of vector-borne diseases. Despite the overwhelming negative effects of climate change, current trends still reflect rising levels of temperature. Out of the 20 hottest years of the planet, 19 occurred from 1980 until the present.ivAccording to NASA, 2005 was the warmest year recorded for over a century (Gutro, 2006)v. Human activity is the primary cause of this drastic increase of the world's temperature. The burning of fossil fuels to meet the energy demands of households, businesses and industries is number one on the list of greenhouse gas emissions. The world's total energy consumption is directly proportional to population levels. Simply put, the more people there are, more of world's resources are utilized. Sustainable development is key to ensure future generations' survival. The Kyoto Protocol aims to provide a solution the pressing problem of climate change. The United Kingdom, being one of the signatories, has committed to reduce carbon emissions significantly by the year 2010 (Wikipedia, 2006)vi. This has given rise to several policies that the government has authored in order to meet the set target. This paper focuses on energy efficiency and the introduction of renewable energy as two of the solutions that the United Kingdom's construction sector have given attention to. The effectiveness of regulations in place will be studied to see if these would be adequate to significantly decrease the country's carbon emissions. Emerging insights from adaptive and community-based resource management suggest that building resilience into both human and ecological systems is an effective way to cope with environmental change characterized by future surprises or unknowable risks. We

Product Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Product Marketing - Assignment Example The report also aims at ensuring that Howden Joinery identifies problems facing it thus becoming very innovative a thing that will ensure that old customers are retained with new customers joining the company. The study looks at the basic fundamental in new product development. For the implementation of a good and improved new product development process the report offers the main elements which include; anchoring the innovative process with top management in the company, splitting the innovation process in two distinct part assigning responsibilities to each, establishing a link between technological and business strategy, developing communication of the strategy to all employees in the company, corporate marketing, among others. New product development (NPD) attempts to describe the whole process that involves bringing a new service or product in the market. (Ulrich and Eppinger, 2004) The new product development process involves; Most companies will view new product development as the most important stage in producing and marketing its products within the entire life cycle management process used in the market share expansion and growth. Ulrich and Eppinger (2004) argues that new products occur in various categories with some being new to the company , others are new to the market while others create new markets. Some concepts in new product process are slight modifications of those in existence when contrasted against a different measure; however some new product development processes are purely inventions from the companies. These new product development processes are; Idea Screening Howden Joinery should carry out idea screening with an aim of doing away with those ideas that are not worthwhile. This will save the company from allocating resources to such concepts. The company should evaluate whether its customers will benefit from the given product, this they can do by conducting a thorough research on the customer's tastes and references. (Ulrich and Eppinger, 2004) The company should assess the technical feasibility in the manufacturing of a given product. Here Howden Joinery will need to know the raw materials needed in production, their availability, and the cost of buying, transporting and processing. After which they will assess the marketability of the product. Lastly, the screeners should carry out a research as to whether their product will earn them some profit; this will incorporate the total cost of production labour and the selling price for the manufactured product. In evaluating the existing process it is important for the company to perform an Evaluation of the current development process. (Michael, 2004) Such an evaluation may touch on specific areas that need improvement. Examination can be in terms of both the performance and means applied. Howden joinery will discover the unemployed activities, streamlining opportunities and executing ones in order to trim down the general time of the cycle (Michael, 2004) Business Analysis According to Michael, (2004) Howden Joinery should carry out a business analysis so as to help in knowing the financial position of the business. This can be done through estimating the likely price tag of its products based upon the feedback from the customers and the

Coca Cola Essay Example for Free

Coca Cola Essay Historically, many companies and corporations have received recognition for their growth and success over time. However, although praised, discoveries of controversial issues lead consumers to question various companies’ ethics and operations. Coca-Cola, or simple coke, has existed for over a century, originating in Atlanta, Georgia in 1892, and eventually expanding and providing drinks internationally. Today, the company produces concentrate, which then sells to Coke licensed bottlers internationally; and ultimately ending up sold to retail stores and vending machines for consumers to purchase. Along with the regular â€Å"coke†, the company has also been able to produce other cola branded drinks including water, energy drinks and coffee. The most common of all, Diet Coke; others include Caffeine-Free Cola, Diet Coke Caffeine-Free, Coke Cherry, Coke Zero and Coke Vanilla. All of which could be found in over 200 countries within the year 2013, with consumers drinking at the least 1.8 million servings each day, according to the book, Citizen Coke: An Environmental and Political History of the Coke Company (Elmore p. 717). However, while extremely popular and high in demand, the Coke Company has faced much controversial issues from the public in India throughout its years of growth. Out of every country that Coke operates in, India has the fastest growing market (KillerCoke). From the start of production in 1999 to present day, Coke has spent $2 billion and will continue to spend an addition $5 billion in India. According to the article Coke rejigs bottling arm management, Coke has a plan to pursue expansion for the following few years (until 2020) in India with the plan to double their revenues to $200 billion (TOI). India is among the top seven markets globally for Coke, the CEO of Hindustan Coke stated â€Å"we have made significant investments in the marketplace and as we get ready to further accelerate growth, it is very important to develop a high quality talent pipelines. This team will work closely with Coke India to achieve our 2020 vision.† Part of their expansion was focused on a plan t in Mehdiganj, India. The emerging markets with Coke like India and China will result in about 60% of the incremental sales volume growth (TOI). According to the book Business and its Environment, 80 percent of the world’s population lives in emerging markets countries, and 90 percent of the world’s population growth will be in these countries over the next 30 years (Baron p.477) The start of production for a few of their bottlers in India has raised issues because of  Coke’s use of the water supply of nearby villages. Amit Srivastaba, of the India Resource Center, a center that works to support movements against corporate globalization in India said, Three communities in India — Plachimada in Kerala, Wada in Maharashtra and Mehdiganj in Uttar Pradesh — are experiencing severe water shortages as a result of Cokes mining of the majority of the common groundwater resources around its facilities (KillerCoke).† One of their issues comes from its production in Mehdiganj, near Varanasi, India, that has been in operation since 1999, and has been the center of attention in many surrounding villages since 2003 and especially after Coke announced that they are planning to expand by $25 million. In August of 2012, according to the article Coke Abandons Expansion Plans in India Because of Water, the company halted their plans to expand in Mehdiganj because of a delay in a no-objection certificate and locals becoming concerned about environmental dangers (The Wire). Organizations such as the India Resource Center and others who organize protests increase the awareness of issues, and therefore private regulation have been made an alternative to government regulations. As a result, the strategy Coke had all along failed to see through when the locals did not approve of their actions. If Coke does not have an affective nonmarket strategy in place for their activities in other countries, major opportunities can close when issues of any kind arise. A nonmarket strategy is important to avoid government regulations and to keeping the company’s opportunities open. Aside from the government, the company’s opportunities can also be controlled by private politics such as protests, public criticism, interest groups as well as public sentiment towards the company. (Baron p.31). The other factor that can affect opportunities is moral concerns, which Coke seems to be going through this issue right now. Coke should formulate a policy that oversees the use of water in India, which is the major concern of groups in private politics. Interest groups that are in play from the surrounding villages in India include: anti-coke nongovernmental activist groups, Varanasi-based activist, environmentalist, politicians, farmers and the villagers that have created lives in sur rounding areas. Leading from within these interest groups is The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board; a statutory organization entrusted to implement Environmental Laws and rules within the jurisdiction of the state  of Uttar Pradesh, India (UPPCB). The Control Board had found that Coke violated a number of conditions of its license that had to do with the use of water. The company had not yet obtained clearance for the extraction of groundwater from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), a government agency that monitors and regulates the process in water-stressed areas (The economic Times). But Coke had some objections to these accusations. According to Coke, a Central Ground Water Authority report from 2012 stated that the reduction of groundwater in the area was not due to their company. According to the article UP pollution board shuts down Cokes Varanasi unit, the maker of sprite said in a statement that the plant in Mehdiganj has complied with regulatory approvals and applicable laws in India (The Economic Times). Despite these statements, according to the Central Ground Water Authority, the groundwater in Mehdiganj has gone from â€Å"safe† back in 1999 when Coke got back into operating in India to â€Å"critical† in 2009. The closure order by the Central Ground Water Authority stated that Coke increased its production capacity from 20,000 cases to 36,000 cases a day without the board’s permission. Similar to this problem was one in 2004, when one of the 68 Coke plant in Plachimada, Kerala was shut down over accusations that the operation led to the reduction of groundwater (see Exhibit #1). The company faces legislation holding it liable for $47 million in damages (The Economic Times). Initially, Coke had looked beneficial for the local economy, but then the regulations and protesters hit the company as a result from the critically low levels of water. Although this may have halted the company’s expansion plan of $25 million into Varanasi, Coke is seeking permission from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board to expand into Mehdiganj. With authorization, they will increase productivity by opening a second bottling line. However, the struggle continues as the recent closure has already inspired other protest to start, starting problems down the company’s future operations in their bottling factories. Over 10 years ago, a protest by farmers and anti-globalization activist successfully launched a â€Å"Quit India† campaign in order to stop Coke’s expansion into Varanasi. Many villages are saying big companies like Coke are coming into India and using their drinking water, even when levels are critically low for basic living consumption (see Exhibit #2). According to  the article Coke has a bottler of a headache in India; the level of water for the villagers became even lower as Coke proceeds to operate in India. Amar Signh Rathor, a farmer in the village Mehdiganj, has noticed the continuous decline of water levels by simply observing his own well. Within three years, the water level below his water table has fallen by over 18 meters. Most of the population of Mehdiganj (approximately 10,000 people) blamed Coke for the shocking decrease in their water supply (Sydney Morning Herald P.13). The plant that is to blame is at the edge of the village. A villager named Shakuntala Devi said, â€Å"If the Coke plant isn’t closed it will be impossible to live here (Sydney Morning Herald P.13).† Coke violates human rights for the people of India by taking their water and in the process they damage the environment. According to the article Coke’s Crimes in India, they are draining a vast majority of groundwater from farms and turning farming communities into virtual desserts. These farmers livelihood that have been destroyed have resulted in a increase of suicide, and everyday for many years now, there are protests of some sort, big or small, against Coke’s abuse in India (KillerCoke). On November 24, 2004, a protest outside of the Mehdiganj plant broke out and quickly turned violent. Multiple villagers had attempted to break the barrier of the police in order to reach Coke property, resulting in a defensive attack in return from the police. Organizers stated that there were approximately 2,000 people – mainly woman and youth – who took part in the protest, although Coke reported a much smaller number. This was the first of many protests to start, even though they were at a smaller scale. In this protest alone, two hundred villagers were reportedly arrested during the brawl (Sydney Morning Herald P.13). According to the article Indian villagers want Coke plant shut amid water fears, later in June of 2007, four hundred people marched and rallied at the Varanasi district magistrates (DM) office, demanding that the Coke bottling plant in Mehdiganj be shut down effective immediately. Within the four hundred, included people from twenty different villages, all of who submitted a letter to the district magistrate, Vina Kumari Meena, drawing attention to the water shortage and pollution of groundwater and land caused  by Coke’s operation. The letter demanded that the operation be shut down (Monitoring South Asia). Due to the severity of the situation, the director of The District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) declared the water issues in India as â€Å"dark zoned†. A dark zone category infers that ground water resources are over-exploited, and more than 85 percent of the total recharging of ground water resources is being extracted, which resulted in all new underground installations being approved by the government (BBC Monitoring South Asia). Accusations of unethical acts against the environment can lead to nongovernmental organizations forming, which affect the organization in question by mobilizing people to work for causes. â€Å"These groups have been instrumental in advancing the causes of environmental protection, health and safety protection for consumers, and civil and human rights (Baron p.75).† The lead of the campaign Lok Semiti (People’s Committee), a nongovernmental organization that is against Coke, Nandlal Master, said When people themselves do not have enough water to meet their basic water needs, why should Coke be allowed to siphon hundreds of thousands of liters of water every day (BBC Monitoring South Asia)? But the issues with Coke go beyond the use of water and its reduction impacting a majority of the villages. Coke provides waste product from their operation to farmers as fertilizers for their crops. A BBC study found that the fertilizer contains toxic chemicals, stating, â€Å"Dangerous levels of the known carcinogen cadmium have been found in the sludge produced from the plant in the southern state of Kerala (BBC news).† Face the Facts, an investigative journalism for BBC, sent presenter, John Waite, to further investigate the allegations. Part of the investigation consisted of sending a sludge sample to the University of Exeter in the UK, and the results were very alarming. The test revealed that the sludge was a useless fertilizer that contained the toxic metals cadmium and lead. David Santillo, a senior scientist at the university’s lab, affirmed that the levels of cadmium and lead have not only contaminated that sludge provided to the farmers, but the entire water supply as well. The levels are  way above those approved by the World Health Organization. Britain’s leading poison expert, professor John Henry, said, The results have devastating consequences for those living near the areas where this waste has been dumped and for the thousands who depend on crops produced in these fields (BBC News). The professor is correct to assume these consequences because cadmium is a poison that can accumulate in the kidneys and with repeat exposure it can cause kidney failure. Lead is also dangerous, and more to children than to anyone else. Even at low levels, lead can cause mental retardation and even anemia, a blood deficiency (BBC News). The professor also explains that with the levels of chemicals in the water, pregnant women in the villages in India consuming from the farm’s goods can fall vulnerable to miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births. After these alarming results, more test where conducted on the soft drinks. In the year 2003, the Centre of Science and Environment (CSE), a non-for-profit and nongovernmental organization based in New Delhi, India, tested 12 cold soft drinks (Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Diet Pepsi, Mirinda Orang, Mirinda Lemon, Blue Pepsi, 7-Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Thumbs Up and of course Coke). The article, Pepsi, Coke contain pesticides: CSE, based in India was the one to write about the cold drinks, which included 2 big companies, Pepsi and Coke. Both companies failed health standards when both drinks tested positive for pesticides. The tests from three samples of each of these Pepsi and Coke brand drinks that was conducted by the Pollution Monitoring Laboratory (PML) of the Centre of Science and Environment showed that the samples contained residues of four very toxic pesticides and insecticides: lindane, DDT, malathion and chlorpyrifos. These four pesticides are known to cause cancer, damage the nervous and reproductive system, and severely damage the immune system (Rediff) . These tests were conducted in the year 2003 from April to August with samples from across the city. The samples from Coke were found to contain pesticides that exceeded global standards by 30 times the limit at 0.0150 mg/l, with the EEC limit of total pesticides being at 0.0005 mg/l. Coke defended its position by saying their plants use a multiple barrier system to remove potential contaminants and unwanted natural substances including  iron, sulfur, heavy metals as well as pesticides, â€Å"Our products in India are safe and are tested regularly to ensure that they meet the same rigorous standards we maintain across the world (Rediff).† But despite these statements the citizens of India seem to believe the Centre of Science and Environment, as sales have been impacted in the so-called safe and high-quality drink and investors from the company in India have lost confidence (Coke India). Looking at the nonmarket issue cycle, Coke is way past the issue identification, interest group formation, legislation, and has now reached the Administration phase in India (see Exhibit #3). The issues were identified soon after they got back into India in 1999. Villagers, farmers and environmentalist noticed the problem, starting many groups interested in the closure of these factories, sparking the many protests stated above. Legislations already started within the Indian Parliament banning Coke drinks from its cafeterias. Amit Srivastaba, of the India Resource Center, stated that the ban came as a result of tests by the Indian government and private laboratories, which found high concentrations of pesticides and insecticides in the cola drinks (Indian Resource Center). If Coke wants to prevent their company from becoming the next Enron in the ethical sense, they need to take the right action now before they sink too low in unethical actions and laws of the government that are way out of their control start to enforce legislations. Enron was a energy company that was found out to be engaging in unethical marketing malpractices including; misrepresentation of reports regarding the financial position of the organization in order to continue from benefiting from the investments provided by the stakeholders, a false energy crisis to gain more money from investors and finally, executives of the company embezzled money from unsuspecting investors which led to the bankruptcy of the company. Coke’s name is a global brand that can definitely work its way out of the unethical characteristics in the communities of the countries it operates in by simply providing the same quality of goods around the world. So far, Coke’s way of handling the issues in India has been very questionable. Their strategy thus far is to globalize their company no  matter the cost, ethically and environmentally. Protesters from many interest groups have eliminated many opportunities for Coke and have been attacking the company for over exploitation and pollution of water that is already dangerously low. Interestingly, Coke responds with public relations scams, deceptive statements and points out awards of how they are corporate socially responsible (KillerCoke). The article Coke’s crimes in India further expands by saying that Coke stated, For four consecutive years, Coke plants in India have won the prestigious Golden Peacock Environment Management Award for environmental practices from the Institute of Directors, which grants the award in association with the World Environment Foundation. Similar remarks were made in late 2005 when the company claimed to be recognized for being a ‘Water Efficient Unit’ by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) (KillerCoke). Coke continued on with their misleading information in 2007 at two Canadian college campuses about their activities in India and Colombia. Coke bragged that The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI), described as an Indian-based nonprofit research organization, had begun an assessment of our companys water resource management practices in India (KillerCoke). TERI is a respected Dehli-based nongovernmental organization with deep experience in sustainability issues, and Coke falsely stated they were working closely with them on their water management. However, Coke already began to make social responsibility a top priority by investing in new innovations and plant processes to help make more improvement moving forward. The Coke webpage of the UK indicates that outside of their plants they attempt to replenish more than 100 percent of the water that they use by creating rainwater harvesting structures, restoring ponds, and leading interventions that focus on improving water efficiency, a mong other things. And by 2012 they met their goal and exceeded it to 110 percent of water replenished throughout India (Coke UK). From the article Villagers to Coke: Go away; In India, foes claim company is depleting water supply, a Coke spokesman stated the shortage of monsoons in India from June to October is to blame for water depletion affecting India’s agriculture. Harry Ott, the director of Cokes Global Center for Water Excellence said, If the monsoons are good, these problems dont come up.† Today in mehdiganj â€Å"the land around  Cokes plant looks lush. Fields brim with mustard plants, potatoes, peppers, wheat and rice (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution).† But the struggle continues as people focus more on the bad rather than the good. Coke like many other businesses focuses on the profitable side of their operation, without realizing the environmental damages it can cause to surrounding communities. When Coke is looking into the future of the company, it is looking to double their revenues more than working on a nonmarket strategy that will prevent interest groups from the communities they operate in to question the company’s morals. Doubling their revenues further proves that Coke, being the number one beverage company in the world, has some money to play with. In Kala Dera, protests are starting because of the lack in Coke’s corporate social responsibility, leading back to the use of water and the damage being done to the communities around it. In 2010, shareholders at a meeting taking place in Duluth, Georgia, were told by Amit Srivastaba of the India Resource center, â€Å"It is only a matter of time before the Coke company will be held financially and criminally liable for their operations in water-stressed areas in India.† He continued by stating â€Å"The company management is being seriously derelict in its duties by not acknowledging the real exten t of the liabilities Coke has incurred and continues to incur in India (KillerCoke).† By investing a few million dollars a year of the billions of earnings they have reached ever since the late nineteenth century when the company first got started, they will be showing the shareholders that Coke is doing something to get on the right track. Coke could start with compensation of the crops that farmers lost when they initially started to operate in India, and also assure the farmers that Coke is investing in new innovations to solve the water issue so it will not be a problem in the long-run. Also, Coke could invest into the education in India by opening new schools; increase awareness of diseases through nongovernmental programs, as well as investing in the communities in which their bottling factories reside. With the issues out for the public to read about, it should be an incentive for the company to not continue down this horrific path in developing countries. Other things Coke should considering doing for the sake of their image is stepping up in community service, donations focused to help clean up the streets that their distributors travel in, donations to nongovernment organization, show the public that  they are actually working to stop the shortage and contamination of water without spreading lies of what they are actually doing. One way to do is by continuing their activities so far to stop the shortage of water and further help the environment by planting trees. The article Trees Reduce Air Pollution mentions that trees can help with the gas pollutants from the factories by absorbing them through the pours in the leaf surface (DNR). Furthermore, the company can look to work with the nongovernmental organization TERI in efforts to better sustainability of water resources, instead of just talking about doing it because in the end actions speak louder than words. Bibliography Coke rejigs bottling arm management. The Times of India (TOI). (September 24, 2013 Tuesday ): 425 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2014/12/15.Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board. June 5, 2014 UP pollution board shuts down Cokes Varanasi unit. The Economic Times. (June 19, 2014 Thursday ): 430 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2014/12/15. Coke has a bottler of a headache in India. Sydney Morning Herald (Australia). (February 17, 2005 Thursday ): 1181 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2014/12/15. Indian villagers want Coke plant shut amid water fears. BBC Monitoring South Asia Political Supplied by BBC Worldwide Monitoring. (June 7, 2007 Thursday ): 622 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2014/12/15. June 7, 2007 Thursday Villagers to Coke: Go away; In India, foes claim company is depleting water supply . The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. (May 29, 2005 Sunday ): 1908 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2014/12/15. UP Pollution Control Board, Lucknow (UP Pollution Control Board, Lucknow). Was Accessed http://www.uppcb.com/ â€Å"Indian Resource Center. PRESS: Groundwater Levels Continue Downward Spiral Around Coke Plant.† March 11, 2010. Was Accessed http://www.indiaresource.org/news/2010/1001.html India Resource Center. Coke Mehdiganj The Issues. March 7, 2013. http://www.indiaresource.org/campaigns/coke/2013/mehdiganjfact.html Ray Rogers. â€Å"Coke’s Crimes in India.† Campaign to Stop Killer Coke | Cokes Crimes in India. Killer Coke. Was Accessed http://killercoke.org/crimes_india.php Was Accessed http://www.cseindia.org/ â€Å"Pepsi, Coke contain pesticides: CSE.† Was Accessed. http://www.rediff.com/money/2003/aug/05pepsicoke.htm Coke India. Was Accessed http://www.Cokeindia.com/factsmyths/varanasi.html Coke India. Was Accessed http://www.Cokeindia.com â€Å"Easy Guide to Understanding ENRON Scandal Summary.† (Enron Scandal Summary). 2013 Was Accessed http://finance.laws.com/enron-scandal-summary â€Å"Coca‑Colas water is used responsibly in its operations in India : FAQ (Coke GB).† 2010. Was Accessed http://www.Coke.co.uk/faq/community/responsible-Coke-water-use-in-operations-in-india.html â€Å"Trees Reduce Air Pollution.† Was Accessed http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/publications/urban2.html Mosendz, Polly. â€Å"Coke Abandons Expansion Plans in India Because of Water.† August 26, 2014. Was Accessed http://www.thewire.com/business/2014/08/Coke-abandons-india-production-expansion/379128/ Elmore, J Bartow. 2013, Citizen Coke: An Environmental and Political History of the Coke Company. P. 717 Baron, David P. Business and Its Environment. 7th ed. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Education, 2012. 784. Print.

Banning the use of cell phones Essay Example for Free

Banning the use of cell phones Essay TITLE: Why banning the use of cell phones while driving should be mandatory nationwide. 1a.General purpose: To highlight the mis-use of hand-held cell phones whilst driving. 1b.Specific purpose: To reduce road fatalities; by persuading the Government of St.Vincent and the Grenadines to implement a law banning motorists from using cell phones on all roads (major and minor roads) in non-emergencies cases. 1c.Central Idea: Using a cell phone can distract motorists, leading them to taking their eyes off the road or to lose their concentration whilst driving which involves teens. Main Points: mis-use of hand-held cell phones road fatalities mandatory intervention Summarize the Key Points of Introduction 1. Cell phones can be useful in many situations. However they are now being mis-used in non-emergencies cases such as making or receiving regular standard calls, texting and being on others social network sites whilst driving. 2. Road fatalities have increased resulting from poor driving by motorists especially teens whilst they are on their cell phones. Many motorist, pedestrians and animals have been killed or seriously injured due motorist distractions. 3. The Government should implement a law banning motorist from using cell phones on all roads (major and minor roads) throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines as a means of reducing road fatalities Conclusion Cell phones have been around for over 30years and are now accessible to a range of people; they can be a valuable communication device. However, when used inappropriately, this can lead to road collisions and fatality. References * In 2006, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group Http//:ven.wikipedia .org/wiki/texting- while-driving In 2006 article American Automobile Association International Telecommunication Union (NTSB) Why banning the use of cell phones while driving should be mandatory nationwide. I will be highlighting why banning the use of a cell phones whilst driving should be mandatory throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines. I will be focusing on situations where the cell phone is being used for non- emergencies when driving. Cellular phones were first introduced into civilian life and the market place around the mid- 1980s. Before this period it was used mainly in the military and in some businesses. Over the years, there has been dramatic growth in the use cell phones. Today cell phones are available to everyone around the world regardless of their age or status. The indiscriminate use of hand held cell phones by persons while driving has resulted in many fatal accidents in recent years and as such is a compelling reason for Parliament to enact legislated to address this precautious situation by banning the use of cell phones while driving in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. It well established that in attentive caused by some forms of distraction is the most common cause of vehicle accidents, engaging in a conversation on a cell phone while driving is a serious distraction in the sense that people lose focus being so imbibed in the conversation that they become totally loss to the surrounding activities. It may be arguable that accidents caused by cell phone use are far less than those caused by other forms of distractions but that is not important in considering whether a total ban should be placed on the use of cell phone while driving. What is of utmost importance is the safety o the general public; it is not of prime necessity to use a cell phone while driving. A driver may be better advised to pull over at the side of road, stop and use his or her cell phone whether be in to dial a number or to receive an incoming call or text messages which is becoming more popular in today technology world. According to Liberty Mutual Insurance Group 2006 conducted a survey of more than 90 teen from twenty six high schools across United States. The result showed that 37% of students considering texting to be  Ã¢â‚¬Å"very† or â€Å"extremely† distracting. A study by the America Automobile Association discovered that 46% of teens admitted to being distracted behind the wheel because of texting. This distracting is alarming The risk of crashing while texting because reading or sending a text diverts the drivers eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds—the same as driving the length of a football field, blind, at 55 mph. The International Telecommunication Union states that â€Å"texting, making calls, and other interaction with in-vehicle information and communication systems while driving is a serious source of driver distraction and increases the risk of traffic accidents increases by 23 times. While celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey have campaigned against texting while driving, there are reports that the message has not been getting through to teenagers. Perhaps the force and might of government authority might be able to get through to them. The practice has been viewed by many people and authorities as dangerous. It has also been ruled as the cause of some motor -vehicle accidents, and in some places has been outlawed or restricted. Is there any reason why my country St. Vincent and the Grenadines cannot emulate such a restriction? Cell phones have become a valuable devise for communicating with others. However, there are situations where it can be said that they are being misused. This would include texting whilst driving, receiving or sending calls and accessing face-book/Twitter and instant messaging on whatever social networks. I will make mention of how texting, using face book and using twitter could endanger the life of the driver, animals, passengers and/or other motorist and pedestrians on the road. (Road collisions and fatality). It is so sad that one’s life have to end just like that or turn into a vegetable because of someone else careless mistake and their future dreams are scattered. The use of cell phone while driving should not be allowed to continue unabsorbed in any civilized society where human life is valued at the highest. Laws should not only be enacted but they must be enforced and the punishment shall be such as to deter would be offenders. Therefore they must not only penalties but penalties should be rather serious and fitting the  offence of using a cell phone while driving. Cell phones have been around for over approximately 30years and are now accessible to a range of people; they can be a valuable communication device. However, when used inappropriately, this can lead to road collisions and fatality.

The Effects Of Infrastructural Facilities

The Effects Of Infrastructural Facilities Infrastructure are the basic facilities, services, and installations needed for the functioning of a community or society, such as transportation and communications systems, water and power lines, and public institutions including schools, post offices, and prisons. Large infrastructure projects generally stimulate demand for nearby real estate .these infrastructural projects usually create abundance of jobs as well as follow on demand for goods and services. They also provide a more effective use and connectivity of the available economic resources and the resulting increase in economy activity from new and more disposable income will in turn typically boost. Economic growth, thats why people will want to purchase or rent residential estate in location within close proximity to major works, Major infrastructure project can take many forms and often include transport, infrastructure improvement such as link roads, railway line extension, new bridges and major freeways. Other projects could be new shopping malls and commercial precincts, new power stations, improve communication facilities industrial areas and business parks, new hospital, school and universities. These can all have an impact property values and demand for residential properties. It is also worthy to note that the quality and quantity of infrastructure available in a given place societies is the yardstick for measuring the general level of development of that area and a major determinants of property development and their respective value trends. The provision or not of these facilities can positively development affect the rate of property development in a given area and this in turn can improve the property value due to the corresponding boost on economics activities achieved through the better accessibility (road) or the higher degree of convenience from the use of these infrastructural facilities. 1.2 Statement of Problem The infrastructure of a city is a major determinant on the demand of houses. One of the major problems affecting housing demand in Lokoja. The poor infrastructure provision in the study area affects the rate of housing Demand in the area, this is because people will only buy or rent houses in areas were the infrastructure provision is sustainably available,this will help to enhance the livability in the community. The poor infrastructure provision in Adankolo is a major determinant on the decrease in the rate of housing demands in the study area. Those who are living in the study area have no choice because they cannot afford the rent in other livable towns . Housing is an enclosed component or structure that has services which support the comfort and existence of human living. These services or facilities are numerous some of which include; kitchen, toilet, refuse disposals, good road networks, electricity, telecommunication and others. Ogedengbe and Oyedele, (2006) carried a research on effects of waste disposal on property values, similarly Robet in his work The Effects of Road Infrastructure on Property Values emphasized more on just road as a facility affecting demandvalues, Whereas many other facilities affect values of residential properties. This now poses a gap between these previous empirical studies hence there is need to reconsider many other facilities as they affect housing demand and housing demand of residential properties. 1.3 Aim and Objectives The aim of this study is to ascertain the effects of infrastructural facilities on housing demand in Lokoja metropolis. OBJECTIVES To identify the various infrastructure available in the study area. To examine the adequacy of infrastructural facilities provision on the residential properties in the study area To recommend possible solution to the problems of housing in the study area. 1.4 Scope of the study This research work intends to determine the effects of infrastructural facilities on housing demand in Lokoja. It is limited to Lokoja metropolis alone with particular emphasis on two areas namely; peace community ganaja village and Adankolo for comparative analysis. 1.5 Justification Although challenges surrounding life and human wants are limited and endless, however these study focuses on the effects of infrastructural facilities on housing demand in Lokoja. And this particular studywill serve as a guide to the following. Urban and regional planners and other allied professionals such as builders, architect, engineers, and others in their various field of activities .for example, these study would give the city managers the ideas of important of infrastructural facilities in there different areas. It serves as a tool to all researchers in the field particularly in the study area.(Lokoja) 1.6 The Study Area Lokoja, Nigeria is located at 7.80236 [latitude in decimal degrees], 6.743 [longitude in decimal degrees] at an elevation/altitude of meters. The average elevation of Lokoja, Nigeria is 55 meters.Lokoja is also a Local Government Area of Kogi State with an area of 3180 km ² and a population of 195,261 at the 2006 census. It is bounded by the Niger in the north and east upstream from the capital until the border with Kwara State, and includes the city of Lokoja. The postal code of the area is 260.The original site of Lokoja, is a 1,349-foot- (411-metre-) high mass of oolitic iron ore. The town has a hydroelectric power generating plant. It is situated on the local highway between Kabba and Ayangbe and has ferry service across the Niger River. Formerly the capital of Kabba province, Lokoja was part of Kwara from 1967 to 1991, when it became the capital of the newly formed state of Kogi. CLIMATE Climate: The site has a tropical climate that comprises of two season namely dry and wet seasons. The wet seasons starts from the month of April and ends in October, while the dry season starts from November and continues till March. The two seasons are affected by the south-westerly winds coming from the Atlantic Ocean and north-easterly winds which come from the Sahara Desert. Another weather phenomenon (micro climate) is associated with the presence of inselbergs. This feature exerts an influence on local weather greater than their size. Rainfall: Rainfall data obtained from the Department of Meteorological Services Lokoja for 25 years (1989- 2005) reveals that the maximum daily rainfall figures of Lokoja town are as follows: Humidity and Temperature: The highest temperatures in the study area always tend to occur at the end of the dry season close to the spring equinox. Thus March has the highest temperature of about 34.5 c, while the lowest temperature occur in the middle of the dry season in December/January, when outgoing radiation is encouraged by low humidity, clear skies and longer nights. The temperature at this time falls as low as 22.8 c. In the dry season there is a decrease in relative humidity from south to north in the study area caused by the higher elevation in the north. In the rainy season, this variation disappears and associated with the high relative humidity is an extensive cloud cover over the region. ECONOMY Agriculture is main stay in Lokoja area economy, various crops are widely grown in the area which includes; coffee, cocoa, palm oil, cashews, groundnuts, maize, cassava, yam, rice and melon.The state is home to the largest iron and steel industry in Nigeria known as Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited. One of the largest cement factories in Africa, the Obajana Cement Factory . MAP OF NIGERIA DEPICTING STUDY AREA Limitation of the Study The major problem in the field of study is language barrier and through these, the researcher that did not understand their language (respondents) will find it difficult to express his mind freely to those that did not understand English language which is the general language in Nigeria, among the respondents. Another problem is illiteracy among the respondents; because some of the respondent finds it difficult to fill questionnaire which is the main information needed from them for the completion of the project. Lastly regardless of these limitations, data collected are sufficient enough to reach the research objectives. 1.8 Definition of Terms Infrastructures It can be generally defined as the set of interconnected structural elements that provide framework supporting an entire structure of development The term typically refers to the technical structures that support a society, such as roads, bridges, water supply, sewers, electrical grids, telecommunications, and so forth, and can be defined as the physical components of interrelated systems providing commodities and services essential to enable, sustain, or enhance societal living conditions The terms housing demand and housing needs are often confused. There are Some key differences between housing demand and housing needs that must beclarified. The meaning assigned to both terms is erroneously similar in manydocuments. The following statement is extracted from the study of housing- Demand models published by the Housing Branch in Hong Kong which asserts that: Housing needs Housing needs is defined as the number of existing ornew households requiring adequate housing. Anadequately housed household is one that lives in selfcontained living quarters made of permanent material.(Liu, Wu, et al. 1996) They also proffer a workable definition of housing demand, viz: Housing demand Housing demand is defined as the number of householdsactually seeking accommodation. In the public sector,demand is assumed to be equal to housing needs. In theprivate sector, demand is constrained by affordability. Facility may refer to: An installation, contrivance, or other things which facilitates something; a place for doing something: Literature Review Infrastructure has been variously defined, according to William Merish and Catherine Brown described infrastructure as the systematic framework which underpins a communitys ability to fulfill its mission of providing a basis of its citizen to productive and to nurture social equity.Omuojine(1997) described it as the stock of fixed capital assets in a country for example Road, railways, Airports, Hospitals, Waterway, power stations, water works, and telecommunication network. It serves as slender threads that weaves together human want and value with those of the environment.Literally, it refers to fixed facilities or installation traditionally provided by public sector. Omuojine (1997) classified it as followed. Transportation including road, railway, airports, seaports and water way. Water supply including water works and Dams Electricity including power stations Telecommunication including postal, telephone, telex, fax, mile services. Health including Hospital, maternity home, and health centers. Sanitation and solid waste disposal. Drainage and Embankments. Infrastructures have certain characteristics viz. Requires large lump sum investment. Entails considerable economic of scale which results in monopolies. Has a high level of externalities both positives and negatives. Intermediate input characteristics. Possess important networks effects. Posses difficulties in cost recovery. While these characteristics have generally remained true, the exact character trait will depends on whether it is urban, rural or inter rural. Infrastructure or trunk and feeder type of fixed/ moving facilities, or the operator of the facility i.e. Whether public or private, central/ state, local Government agencies. Infrastructures include the aggregate of all facilities that enables a society to function effectively, by providing the physical facilities, which moves people, goods, commodities, water, waste, Electricity, road, sewerage and information infrastructure provides an enabling environment for growth and enhanced quality of life.PojuOnibokun (1985) infrastructure is therefore; universally regarded as the engine that drives the city. The linkage between the economy activities and infrastructure continue to grow stronger and more critical as an economic activity becomes increasingly more complicated and global in scope. Lawal (1997). Through the provision of urban infrastruct ure is tradition all the presence of government, the growing difficulties and limitation of public finance and the reality of the wide gap between the demand and supply of infrastructures services with all its pervasive effect inevitably compel urban authorities to look to the private sector and community. Based organization (cbos) for partnership. Babawale (2004) infrastructure is generally poor in developing countries. Although it differs widely among countries and sectors. In Nigeria for instance most households and private companies get electricity form private generating sets because of power holding of Nigeria unreliability. This imposed extra cost on companies and environmental effects on neighbors. There is no water supply in most cities and therefore no waste disposal system. HOUSING DEMAND Housing demand is defined as the housing need people backed up with the purchasing power or the ability and willingness to pay. According to You (1993). As quoted in Olufemi(1993), housing demand could be expressed in term of purchasing power, a function of income, family size, location and tradition etc. Housing demand is different from need. It is only when the need (desire) is backed up with price or rent that we talk of effective demand.According to Robinson (1979), there are three main component of housing demand and these are. From new households, demand from movers between tenure group and demand from existing household within a particular tenure groups. The author also noted that renting is an important feature of demand. This is because the majority of household who could not build or purchase their own home often result to renting. Demand for housing differs from place to place across the socio- economic groups. For instant demand in the city differs from that of the rural areas. Demand also differs among high, medium, and low income groups. Housing demand also changes with time and with social and economic situations. In Nigeria for instance there is a noticeable change in the demand for different type of units. As income and building technology changes. There has been gradually change from the demand for row housing or face to face tenement to more modern housing types such as self contain and flats apartment as well as duplexes. Generally,housing market or sub market of the low income group demonstrates a great diversity of demand, which result from two major factors (UNCHS, 1996) first is there disposal income and the second is how much they are prepared to spend on housing. The amount of money they are willing to spend on housing is in turn determined by the type of accommodation available, the location, s ize, and quality of the houses in terms of infrastructure and services available, and the level of security offered. The demand for housing is a reflection of the ability of household to pay for them. Thus, an examination of households, income and prices of housing unit provides a basis for accessing housing demand, an assessment of the housing demand situation in Nigeria by the UNCHS (1993) reveals that the different income groups are confined to different options. Generally, the poor economic situation in Nigeria during and in the post. Structure adjustment program (SAP) period has affected the purchasing power of the majority. Although household income have risen, in numerical terms, by a factor of about five since 1987, the purchasing power has declined by a factor of about eight(UNCHS,1993). It is therefore observed that the household income of the lowest income group are too low to allow them to exercise any effective demand for formal housing in the open market consequently, majority of the low income household cannot afford any form of formal housing without subsidy. Thus they resort to sur vival outside the formal housing market. For this group the UNCHS (1993) observed that. the present 20% of the household do not earn enough to participate in formal housing market in the urban area. They resort to various informal housing arrangements for themselves. This arrangement includes the setting -up of shanty dwellings of their own on land belonging to them(squatting), renting shanty dwelling, colonization of uncompleted multiples storey buildings, occupation of vacant spaces in public buildings at night,etc. BASIC CONCEPT OF HOUSING. Housing is an empirical word as Salau (1990) has written The confusion of given an exact meaning of definition to housing is perhaps due to the multi-dimensional nature of housing itself Agboola (1998) stated that Housing involves series of processes by which resources such as land, labour, finance and building materials are combine to produce new housing. It involves also the upgrading of existing housing to the demanders .He explained further that housing particular delivery system encompasses the process that allocates housing unit to households in particular country and that housing delivery is stimulated and sustained by the demand and supply mechanism this of course,means that in a free market economy like Nigeria, the forces of demand and supply for housing stock, may determine what stocks come into the housing delivery market and who among the demander get what from the market?. According to Baurue (1981), Housing is the provision of all forms of infrastructures for a conducive living environment whereas habitable and standard houses bythe residential or commercial or any other forms of building properly arranged in a statutorily planned area meeting all the forms of planning rules and ordinances in housings.World health Organization (WHO). Defined housing as a residential environment which includes in addition to the physical structures. The main uses for shelter, all necessary services, facilities, equipment and devices needed or desire for physical or social wellbeing of the family and individuals. Ayeni(1984) defines housing as not only referring to the shelter provided by the structure but also the lot on which the shelter stands and the services provided to the lots such as waterand energy supply, waste disposal, drainage, fire and police protection and kick lighter (1986)defined the term housing in its entire ramification to refer to more than just a dwelling but also included all that is within and surrounds thedwelling. Salau(1990) transcends the physical dimensions of shelter and include the general environment within which the structure is located and the availability of essentialsocial services and infrastructural facilities, which ultimately ensure the satisfaction of the population. National housing policy (1991), housing forms an important part of peoples life and it is rather inseparable from them as it provides the users of occupiers shelters, security, privacy, prestige and a means of self-expression. It is a basic need as everyone requires a shelter, which for most people means a home that, is a permanent base in which the greater part of time is spent. Ozo (1987), asserted that a house must be a home;that is , a resting place in which to try to fulfill the fundamental purpose of human society,namely a secure , rewarding, happy or atleast a reliable life.to the individual family,a house as both a shelter and symbols of physical protection and psychological identity of economic valueand a foundation for security and self respect.Olotuali (1997) stated that housing provides the framework of meeting mans need for shelterand it is all encompassing phenomenon of the creation of the environment, in which man grows and lives and grows.Bourne (1981)summed housing up as a physical entity, a good artifact, an economic good, a capital stockand a statue symbol all at once.Madge(1968) assorted that housing is an important element in all capital formation and the largest single component in total building of any nation. According to Omole(2001), housing is more than a mere shelter in its proper definition , housing can be defined as a residential environment which man uses for shelter and the environment of the structure needed or design for his physical and mental health as well as the social being. Ozo (1987), a house is certainly the bulkiest, the most difficult to move and most durable consumer good. In view of the enormous resources requiredin acquiring housing (since it can hardly be purchase out of ones income in less developed countries). It is true measure of the social- economic statues of a society. Looking at the definitions above .therefore a good housing or shelter development of a group of people and a nation at large. A well determined settlement equally determined the productivity and consumption ration as well as economic, moral and welfare terms of the people or nation. THE NIGERIAN HOUSING MARKET The Nigerian housing market is highly untapped and undeveloped despite lot of opportunities that abound in the sector (Akeju 2007). This is basically due to many reasons amongst which includes. Lack of finance Government policy Lack of infrastructural development High level of poverty. There is continuous increase in the average price of house due to increase in cost of building materials and inflation in the economy. This has highly contributed to the upward trend in the house trend in the house price which has significantly affected the number of unit of houses constructed annually. The Government efforts at addressing the problem have not been successful due to its unsustainable approach of providing houses to the people, the houses are grossly inadequate and unaffordable by the larger proportion of the masses for which they are meant for. There are efforts by the private individuals to help in alleviating these housing problems. The bulk of the housing problems is prevalent in urban cities, but there are lot of un occupied and dilapidated houses in the rural areas to urban centers for greener pastures. Most individual that are involved in property development build for their own uses or are home owners, while the few ones involves in building for commercial purposes, build shops and space to let for offices because if the high rental income accruing from such commercial properties. The residential developments in most cases are illegal, informal and untitled. This is due to long, undue delay to title registration and laxity in enforcing development control regulations by the official of the urban and regional planning department (Fasakin and Ogunmakin 2006). Private sectors contribution toward alleviating this housing problems has been I the form of individual efforts, cooperative societies or association, corporate bodies, estate agents, nongovernmental organization / charity organization and foreign investors, their contributions toward alleviating housing problems in Nigeria are briefly discussed below. INDIVIDUALS This represent the greatest source of contribution from the private sector in most urban centers where the housing problem is very prevalent , a greater proportion of the population dwells in residential houses built by private individuals. These individual financed the project through their personal savings, borrowing from family, friends and lenders or cooperative movements. It can be categorically stated that number of housing unit built by individual have been very substantial when compared with other source of constructing houses. (2) COOPERATIVE BODIES The idea of cooperatives housing have started long time ago when individual planning to own a house seek help from relative, in town, neighbors and friends (Wahab 1988). This concept has been successfully tested and certified in countries like Italy, United Kingdom, Zambia, Sweden and Philippines (Daramola, 2006). It is suited to meet the need of low income earner who constitutes the vast majority of Nigerians. The member of the cooperative are able to enjoy housing loan for the construction of their own housing unit. (3) CORPORATE BODIES. The federal government of Nigeria has realized that they cannot solve the housing problem alone. Has involved the cooperate bodies to contributes their own goals towards the achieving the objectives of housing for all. It was evident that most of the companies have totally neglect for housing needs of their workers. These consequently made the Government come to the rescue of the workers. These consequently made the Government come to the rescue of the workers through the promulgation of employee housing scheme (special provision). Decree 54 of 1979, thus compelling any employer of 500 employees to provide minimum housing of 50 units of which 75% should available for non-executive staff. (4) ESTATE DEVELOPER / AGENTS The private developer or estate agents activities were concentrated in Lagos in 1990 and they play significant roles in the development of the Nigeria housing market (Efin. A and Finmark trust,2010), they ensure adequate shelter is provided to meet the demand of the increasing number of people having housing need. They often employ various finance techniques such as turnkey, pre-letting and joint finance to construct housing unit for the people (Nubi 2000). (5) NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION AND VOLUNTARY ORGANISATION. In recent year there is increasing trends by non-governmental organization and voluntary organization such as religion bodies to contribute their own effort at addressing the housing problems faced by the people in both rural and urban cities. They assist resetting displaced people having housing problem as a result of natural disaster like war, flood, famine, earthquakes, and etc. (6) FOREIGN PARTNERS / INVESTORS. The government through its various development policies has attempted to encourage foreign investors in the housing market. This is usually in the form of foreign partnership with the local estate developers.These provided more capital base for the estate company, thus making them to be involved in large capital based project. The company are usually handling Government housing project which are capital intensive and required more technical expertise and knowledge. THE ECONOMICS OF HOUSING Housing as a product is regarded as a commodity with an exchange value, according to Angel et.al (1992), housing is viewed as a commodity with an exchange value rather than as goods to be produced and allocated outside the market place. Hence the housing sector is composed as a vast set of exchange relations, driven by supply and demand forces which permit all part of the sector despite the existence of apparently distinctive sub markets. (Agunbiade 1993). The units in the standing stock to be traded in the market have a contribution of attributes and qualities, which determines their selling prices. Such attributes include age and durability of structures, total floor space, structural design and internal layout, location accessibility, ancillary services present, security, aesthetics and the general environmental condition. These attributes distinguish one unit from the other. Thus the structural condition of units and the flow of services they yield determine the value of housing unit in the market. According to Robinson (1979) there are two measure of value in the housing market, these are rent and price. Rent is the payment made for a flow of housing services received over a specific period of time while price is the capital value associated with a particular unit of stockin the ordinary sense, we could argue that the value of housing unit (V) is equalto its price (P) i.e. V = P . However in some cases, the different between the exchange value and the actual value is refers to as subsidy, which is often, paid by Government or corporate bodies to their employees. Thus, subsidy could be regarded as a distortion to the actual market determined price or rent of a housing unit. Housing need, supply and housing price in an economy involved complex processes that are influenced by social and economic force. The understanding of the nature and attributes of the demand and supply of housing is therefore important in any housing study. However, before we address the issue of need, demand, supply and price. It is ideal to consider the characteristics of housing as a product 2.5 ROLE OF INFRASTRUCTURAL FACILITIES ON DEVELOPMENT Ratchiffe (1995) classical rent theory conceptualizes that general improvement in access routes (Roads) have positive effect on the areas land values; Boyce and Allen (1974) in Denver studied the impact of accessibility and amenities on property values. They selected several study areas then applied six (6) criteria encompassing accessibility, amenities and property characteristics and used regression analysis to investigate 24,082 property transactions. They identified a positive impact of infrastructural facilities on property values. Stopper and Meybury (1971) claimed that the relevance of transportations facilities in influencing urban growth and development is reflected in most North. American and Europeans town which shows a growth pattern derived largely from transactional routes. Abouchar (1977) investigated the impact of a subway on property value on Toronto, he studies the metropolitan Toronto subway system through on analysis of the operations of welfare criteria with the basic objective of distinguishing the impact of the subway on property value (demand and price) by looking at year to year relative percentage changes in property values in and out of the subway corridor. However, his analysis concluded that the subway had no effect on the property value in the subway area. The validity of findings and conclusion are questionable as the study did not fulfill the requirement of a before and after approach because the analysis of the property market was concluded in 1992 the date the subway began its operation. Abdulateef (1997) observed a positive impact of road transportation and communication on land use development and property values, the provision of infrastructural facilities in any socio economic unit whether a nation, region or community could have either a positive or negative impact on property value. For instance, the provision of an incinerator in a residential district will have a negative effect on the value of the properties in that area while the provision of infrastructural facilities like good roads network, water and electricity supply, drainage system, good refuse collection treatment and disposal system etc enhances values to unpre cedented level just as the inadequacy or lack or these facilities adversely affect value as a paradox. 2.6 IDENTIFICATION OF PUBLIC UTILITIES MANAGEMENT AGENCIES IN NIGERIA The prominent public agencies for the provision and management of the infrastructural facilities in Nigeria are: Power holding company of Nigeria Plc. In charge of electricity generation, distribution and supply to consumers (PHCN) Nigeria telecommunications limited (NITEL) State water corporation State waste management boards Federal road maintenance agencies (FEMA) Nigerian communications commission (NCC) Federal air

In conclusion Philip Dean’s produced theater performance “ZigZag Street” :: Drama

In conclusion Philip Dean’s produced theater performance â€Å"ZigZag Street† provided the main theme well through out the whole performance. The acting was wonderful and the uses of techniques were used great. The only downside to this play was the script. Analytical Essay: In Philip Dean’s produced theater performance â€Å"ZigZag Street† the main theme, which is displayed through out the performance is the universal needs of all human beginnings: need for friendship, companionship and the needs for plans, hopes and dreams. This is shattered when the main character Richard (Mark Conaghan) is dumped buy his long-term girl friend after 4 years. After this painfully brake up he is given his grandparents house on ZigZag Street under one condition, he renovate the house while he lives in it. While he is in this house he try’s to get his life back on track but despite concerted efforts chaos reigns supreme. First Key Moment: 1. Richard: arrives at a cafà ©. He takes out a book and reads. After a moment a girl enters, looks around and then approaches. Girl: Im sorry. You were reading Richard puts the book down Richard: No it’s fine. Girl: so what do you do? Richard: Im s lawyer. I work for a financial institution, what about you? Girl: im a student. Richard: what are you studying? Girl: Do you like movies? Richard: Sure. She has the Pulp Fiction postcard. Girl: would u like see Pulp Fiction with me sometime? Richard: With you? Girl: Yeah. You haven’t seen it? Richard: No, I haven’t. One might this week? Or the weekend. Girl: The weekend might be better. Im not allowed out on weeknights during school. Pause. Richard: During school. Girl: Its okay. Im nearly seventeen This scene illustrates the main theme very well; it shows the audience that Richard is looking for friendship or companionship within this girl. The technique of tension was used well within this scene, it started off to look like that Richard’s luck has finally changed after his brake up with his girl friend but all is not what it seems. Richard and this girl talk for a moment and the conversation leads to Richard asking if the young girl would like to go to the movies with him during the week or weekend. This is where the tension starts to heighten between Richard and this young girl, this is due to the Richard finding out that the girl is only seventeen. This was great use of tension because it showed that Richard is still looking for a companion but he has matured after his brake up and thinks things through a lot more then he has done before. Within this scene the technique focus was used well because the only

Hydro cruiser :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Hydro Cruiser Do you ever find yourself looking down at your gas gauge on your way to school or work, noticing that little pointer is staggering off way below the empty mark? Well, today we are here for your rescue, presenting the Hydro Cruiser. We are doing are part to help the environment. Also it helps â€Å"you† the common man save money, and helps us in contributing to a smog free earth. The Hydro Cruiser is a stylish sport utility vehicle that runs off of H20 (water) instead of gasoline. Purchasing the Hydro Cruiser just shows how smart and efficient you are. If its selling to the high class business men or to the common everyday family, both classes will be driving safe and in style.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If you find yourself falling into the average Joe, penny pincher category, our product will be a far sure seller for you. By using water instead of gas you will be saving yourself hundreds of dollars every month. Knowing water instead of gas will save you money is obvious, because water is basically free. However buying the Hydro Cruiser, you will feel better and more productive by knowing you are doing your part in reaching our goal of a smog free earth. We feel our product is like a fat free option that tastes the same. This meaning are car can do anything and everything a gas powered car can do but, we can do it cheaper, safer, and extremely more conveniently.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Let yourself go the Hydro Cruiser will take you on an experience to any and all lengths. With a 250 horsepower engine, four wheel drive, climb the steepest hills. Then after having a rugged day with Mother Nature, sit back and relax in your waterproof interior. Turn up the CD player and enjoy your peaceful ride home, letting others know your saving money and doing your part in making a smog free tomorrow.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If you decide to invest in our car we can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. If you will invest in this car you will make lots of money. We know this, because we did a survey and we found that more than half the people would buy a car like this one. Not only will you make money you will have a good public image. Hydro cruiser :: essays research papers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Hydro Cruiser Do you ever find yourself looking down at your gas gauge on your way to school or work, noticing that little pointer is staggering off way below the empty mark? Well, today we are here for your rescue, presenting the Hydro Cruiser. We are doing are part to help the environment. Also it helps â€Å"you† the common man save money, and helps us in contributing to a smog free earth. The Hydro Cruiser is a stylish sport utility vehicle that runs off of H20 (water) instead of gasoline. Purchasing the Hydro Cruiser just shows how smart and efficient you are. If its selling to the high class business men or to the common everyday family, both classes will be driving safe and in style.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If you find yourself falling into the average Joe, penny pincher category, our product will be a far sure seller for you. By using water instead of gas you will be saving yourself hundreds of dollars every month. Knowing water instead of gas will save you money is obvious, because water is basically free. However buying the Hydro Cruiser, you will feel better and more productive by knowing you are doing your part in reaching our goal of a smog free earth. We feel our product is like a fat free option that tastes the same. This meaning are car can do anything and everything a gas powered car can do but, we can do it cheaper, safer, and extremely more conveniently.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Let yourself go the Hydro Cruiser will take you on an experience to any and all lengths. With a 250 horsepower engine, four wheel drive, climb the steepest hills. Then after having a rugged day with Mother Nature, sit back and relax in your waterproof interior. Turn up the CD player and enjoy your peaceful ride home, letting others know your saving money and doing your part in making a smog free tomorrow.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If you decide to invest in our car we can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. If you will invest in this car you will make lots of money. We know this, because we did a survey and we found that more than half the people would buy a car like this one. Not only will you make money you will have a good public image.