Earthwatch update on Asia earthquake floods crisis
Earthwatch is shocked and saddened by the Asia earthquake floods crisis and offers its condolences to those affected by this terrible event.
We are relieved to report that our scientists and project staff are safe and are in the process of assessing the damage on six research projects. We did not have any volunteer teams in the field in any affected areas at the time. Our January and February teams in southeast Asia will go ahead as planned and will help with recovery where needed. We will offer further support to these projects and look to help local restoration programmes if required. We will also be assessing future research needs in the light of this crisis.
The people of southeast Asia have an enormous, challenging and difficult task ahead. We will do everything we can to help them rebuild their lives and continue the vital work necessary for a sustainable future, and hope you will join us in our continuing efforts.
For further information about volunteering on these Earthwatch projects call +44 (0) 1865 318 831 or email projects@earthwatch.org.uk, for media enquiries call +44 (0) 1865 318 857 or email sbhangoo@earthwatch.org.uk.
To support the humanitarian aid effort we suggest making a donation to Oxfam: donate online at http://www.oxfam.org.uk/ or call 0870 333 2500.
Earthwatch research projects within affected region:
Maternal and Child Healthcare in India (PI Nithya Balaji)
Sri Lanka's Temple Monkeys (PI Dr Wolfgang Dittus)
Green Turtles of Malaysia (PI Dr Joan Whittier)
Origins of Angkor (PI Dr. Charles Higham)
Mangroves of the Kenyan Coast (PI Dr Mark Huxham)
French Fort of Mauritius (PIs Dr Geoffrey Summers and Francoise Summers)
Editors Notes