Video Documentary Launch and Forum on Mercury-Added Skin-Lightening Products

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In commemoration of Earth Day on April 22, 2024, BAN Toxics and La Consolacion University Philippines (LCUP) in Malolos, Bulacan, through their partnership via the Toxic-Free Schools Program (TFSP) will be holding a video documentary launch and forum on mercury-added skin-lightening products (SLPs) and their hazardous effects to human health and the environment.


When: Apr 22, 2024 | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Where: Kalinangan Auditorium, La Consolacion University Philippines Main Campus, Malolos Bulacan

Audience: An estimated 1,200 senior high students are expected to attend the forum, along with members of the LCUP academe and other esteemed guests.


Photo Opportunity:

- During the forum proper, there will be an XRF testing of SLPs available in the market to demonstrate the mercury content of these products

- Mockup of mercury-added SLPs with slogans as well as placards will be available; the senior high students attending the forum are also expected to bring their own placards.


Personalities available for Interview:

A representative from the Food and Drug Administration is expected to attend the forum as one of the speakers and will be available for interview, along with members of the LCUP academe and BAN Toxics.


About the video documentary:

"The Dark Side of Skin-Lightening" is a 13-minute short documentary shedding light on the hidden dangers lurking within many skin-lightening products readily available in the Philippines. Produced by environmental NGO BAN Toxics with support from the European Environmental Bureau, the documentary uncovers the dangers posed by mercury-laden skin-lightening products, providing insight into their impact on human health and the environment.

Creating a Quality Study Space: Tips for Grad Students

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Furnishing the right study environment can be a game-changer for graduate students, whose success often hinges on the ability to focus and assimilate complex information. An ideal study space promotes concentration, enhances learning, and can even reduce stress. Whether you're tackling a thesis or preparing for examinations, your physical workspace is pivotal in shaping your academic journey. In this article, we explore essential elements and practical suggestions for creating a study space that meets the unique demands of grad school life. Keep reading for tips that can be instrumental in your scholarly achievements. 

Selecting the Ideal Location for Maximum Concentration

Choosing where to study is the foundational block of building an effective study space. Ambiance and isolation are key factors; a quiet room with a door can significantly reduce interruptions from housemates or family. For those living in bustling environments, noise-canceling headphones might be a worthwhile investment. Consideration of natural light is also vital. A room with ample daylight can boost your mood and help maintain a natural rhythm for sleeping and waking. However, ensure that the brightness does not produce glare on your study materials, as this can strain your eyes over long periods. Among the myriad elements to consider for such a space, the presence of plants can be surprisingly beneficial. Incorporating a fake indoor tree can enhance the aesthetic appeal and create a calming, nature-like environment without the maintenance required by real plants. 

Organizational Tools and Strategies for Study Materials

A cluttered study space can mirror a cluttered mind. Grad students should use organizational tools to keep track of notes, books, and digital files. Shelving units, drawer organizers, and desk trays can all facilitate quick access to materials while maintaining a tidy appearance. Digital organization is equally vital, especially in the age of extensive online resources and research. Implement a consistent file-naming system and use cloud storage for backup. Consider apps or software designed to help academics manage their research, citations, and data. For those pursuing complex study paths that require attention to detail, such as a Master's of Applied Behavior Analysis, keeping abreast of your academic literature and continuously planning for upcoming modules in your master's degree program are critical components of organizational strategy.

Ergonomics and Comfort in Study Space Design Ergonomics—an often-overlooked aspect of study spaces—requires serious consideration. The right chair and desk setup can prevent chronic pain and foster longer, more productive study sessions. Choose a chair with proper lumbar support and ensure that your feet rest flat on the ground or a footrest. Invest in a desk that accommodates your height and equipment comfortably. Keyboard and mouse placement is also crucial for avoiding strain; they should be positioned so that your elbows rest at a 90-degree angle. Multiple monitors, if used, should be at eye level to prevent neck strain. Remember, comfort enhances productivity, making ergonomic investments essential.

Keep in mind that comfort goes beyond physical support. Temperature control can influence concentration and energy levels, so aim for a space that remains cool but not cold. Layering your clothing can be a simple yet effective way to manage personal comfort throughout your study session. 

Minimizing Distractions for Enhanced Focus

A grad student's study space should minimize distractions as much as possible. This includes managing digital interruptions. Keep your phone on silent mode or use apps that block social media during study hours. Ensure that your study-only computer is free from games or non-academic browsing shortcuts. Sound can be difficult to control, but white noise machines or background sounds like soft instrumental music can mask intermittent noises from outside your study haven. Also, brief family or roommates about your study schedule to prevent accidental disturbances during critical study times. Organizational systems within your study zone can reduce visual clutter, which otherwise might pull your focus away from the task at hand. Having a tidy, designated spot for each of your study materials means you spend less time searching for things and more time on productive work. Another tactic to keep your mind from wandering is to incorporate brief, structured breaks into your study routine—using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique. This helps to refresh your mind and maintain a highhigh level of focus during your designated study periods. Overall, a thoughtfully designed study space is instrumental in a grad student's educational success. By personalizing your workspace to suit your individual needs, you'll be poised to tackle the challenging and rewarding journey of graduate studies head-on.

27th UNCSTD in Switzerland boosts KEEP UK-ITDI's hydrogen energy shot

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It promises to put out "what is new, what matters, what is changing, what the impact is – and how this affects development and a sustainable future for all."

For the Philippines, the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), home to discussions on S&T of the United Nations, is keeping its guarantee. 

On April 15, 2024, it held its 27th Annual Session in Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland, where two days later, it opened to the public the United Nations S&T Global Cooperation Exhibit, which, together with the Session, ran until April 19.

In its 27th session, CSTD emphasized two priority themes: “Data for Development” and “Global Cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation for Development.” Here, the Philippines, represented by DOST through three of its agencies, namely, DOST-ITDI, DOST-FPRDI, and DOST Region XI, showcased projects currently being implemented through international collaboration to acknowledge the second priority theme.

While the Commission has 43 member states elected by the Economic and Social Council, only 17 participated in the exhibition. 

For DOST-ITDI, Dr. Ronaldo P. Parreño, Jr. of the Chemicals and Energy Division (CED-ITDI) exhibited materials developed for specific fuel cell components that will address the current technological limitations of fuel cells. The materials were developed in ITDI's new fuel cell R&D laboratory and testing facility which aims to develop the next-generation proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The industry focuses on producing expensive, high-efficiency, zero-emission fuel cells. The next generation PEMFC is targeted to be cheaper and have improved performance, thus making local commercialization possible. Because fuel cells produce electricity while emitting only heat and water as byproducts, they are a green alternative to fossil fuel sources and one of the best options for long-term energy investment.

Meanwhile, the energy insights and experiences of the University of Birmingham in England have expanded the efforts of the Fuel Cell R&D Laboratory and Testing Facility. The international collaboration is the fruit of the 2023 Knowledge Exchange for Economic Partnerships between Innovate UK EDGE and DOST-ITDI (KEEP UK-ITDI).

Research cooperation on electrode catalyst development with the Research Center for Zero CO2 Emission with Functional Materials, University of Tsukuba in Japan, is ongoing.

Other technologies exhibited in the Philippine booth included Philippine tannins, a natural source of phenolics used in leather processing and fiber dyeing of DOST-FPRDI, and the SECCI (social and human sciences, education, culture, and communication and information), and SETI (science, engineering, technology, and innovation) for the SDGs Scorecard developed by DOST Region XI.

DOST-FPRDI partnered with the Bern University of Applied Sciences and received funding support from the Swiss National Science Foundation, while DOST XI cooperated with the UNESCO Office in Jakarta.

The 27th CSTD Annual Session provides an intergovernmental forum for discussion on timely and pertinent issues affecting science, technology, and development since 2006.

Outcomes of the CSTD session include providing the United Nations General Assembly and ECOSOC (United Nations Economic and Social Council) with high-level advice on relevant science and technology issues. (AMGuevarra\\ ITDI S&T Media Service)