ECOLOGY CULTURE

CONSULTING SERVICES

There, we are developing a new range of programmes addressing ecological, cultural and social issues. These programmes take participants through expeditions in a number of specifically chosen locations in the Pacific and East asian regions bordering the sea. Participants have the opportunity to study and bring awareness on the ecological, cultural and social problems caused by changes on ecosystems, and how these affect communities. In the process, they will be able to improve their understanding about traditional ways of life in these areas (sometimes remote), mixing with local people and exchanging knowledge...

Membership to these programmes is restricted. Candidates need to show the reasons for their participation and how their contribution will help the communities. This is a long term project, which is already receiving support from major organisations and institutions.

Stay tuned for more information on this exciting project. Background information available below...

	The care of the Ocean is the responsibility of all people

"The care of the ocean is the responsibility of all people. Oceans are inter-connected and interdependent, covering some seventy per cent of the world's surface. They are the last great frontier and their conservation and sustainable use is vital to the well-being and survival of the human race.

The understanding of sustainable development and management of marine resources and the broader marine and coastal environment relies on a thorough understanding of the relevant issues and processes, including traditional knowledge. Our new programmes aim at increasing knowledge and awareness of this environment. Participants will experience first-hand the environmental, social and cultural changes in the Pacific and South East Asia through a series of expeditions in which they will learn to relate to traditional cultures while bringing their own knowledge. They will learn about others and in the process reflect on themselves. These programmes will involve local community elders, traditional navigators, marine biologists and environmental specialistsamong others.

Close to us, the Ocean unites Pacific Island communities. It has supported generations of communities, not only as a medium for transport but also as a source of food, tradition and culture. These are particularly vulnerable to certain environmental, economic and social circumstances.

Environmental factors include: climate variability, climate change and sea-level rise; immediate natural hazards such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic events, fragile ecosystems and natural resource bases, and geographic isolation. Economic factors include: limited land area and freshwater resources; limited local markets; high import dependencies; fluctuating world prices for commodities; and isolation, including large distances to world markets. Social factors include: population growth & distribution; human and food security; external influences, cultural dilution and loss of traditional knowledge and practices."

Participants will bring their knowledge to the communities, and take their findings back to raise awareness and gather support...

	Tidal waves on Tuvalu (Photos: Gary Braasch)

Contact Jonathan Bogais for details...

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