The smog from Taal Volcano has no negative effect on crops and plants in the provinces of Batangas and Cavite so far.
In a recent interview with DZRH, Bureau of Plant and Industry Spokesperson Jose Diego Roxas said that the primary concern in this scenario is sulfur toxicity, which can be harmful to plants, slowing down their growth.
Spox. Jose Diego Roxas, Bureau of Plant and Industry, sa epekto ng smog sa crops: Sulfur toxicity po ang mangyayari sa mga halaman na makakalason at makakapagpabagal sa paglaki ng halaman.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday #SamaSamaTayoPilipino
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 22, 2023
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He explained that while plants can withstand sulfur in its elemental form, sulfur dioxide gas presents a challenge as it is acidic in nature.
Roxas pointed out that some plants are particularly sensitive to sulfur dioxide. Fortunately, as of now, the effects have not been severe, and there is no cause for immediate alarm.
"Meron po kasing mga halaman na sensitive sa sulfur dioxide. Wala pang nakikitang masyadong epekto dahil hindi pa malubha ang epekto ng asupre," said the spox.
He emphasized that washing the plants can effectively remove any potential contaminants, and in terms of bioaccumulation, the current levels are not significant enough to pose health risks through consumption.
Roxas: 'Pag hinugasan ang halaman ay malinis naman na siya, at sa bioaccumulation, hindi po 'yon sapat para magsanhi po ng sakit.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday #SamaSamaTayoPilipino
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 22, 2023
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Roxas reassured the public that it is safe to consume vegetables and crops from Cavite and Batangas as the sulfur dioxide's effects have not yet become problematic.
Moreover, there are no immediate concerns for the residents of Metro Manila regarding plant-related issues.
Addressing the overall impact of the haze in Manila, Roxas clarified that it primarily presents a health concern. Still, as of now, it does not appear to significantly affect plant life in the region.
Roxas: Kung meron man pong impact yung haze sa Manila, it's more of a health concern, pero pagdating sa halaman ay mukhang wala pa itong epekto sa ngayon.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday #SamaSamaTayoPilipino
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 22, 2023
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However, he stressed that sulfur, in appropriate concentrations, is actually beneficial for plant growth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced environment.
In light of the ongoing situation, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) earlier emphasized that the vog (volcanic smog) experienced in Batangas and surrounding areas is a result of volcanic plumes emitted by Taal Volcano.
The NDRRMC has issued guidelines for those living near the volcano, urging them to stay indoors with closed windows, wear N95 face masks or gas masks, and stay hydrated.
They advised the public to seek medical assistance if they experience severe adverse effects due to the smog.
