FYI :
"Environmental destruction threatens both wildlife and livelihoods.
...
The United Nations Environment Programme has already begun systematically logging the environmental impacts of the disaster.
...
One of the biggest concerns for ecologists is that fragile coral reefs and mangrove swamps from Sri Lanka to Sumatra may have been uprooted by surging waters or smothered by washed out mud and debris.
...
Damage to the plants and animals in these ecosystems could have knock-on effects for the human communities that depend on them. Coral reefs and mangrove swamps are vital feeding and breeding grounds for fish, so their destruction could cut local fishing and food supplies over the longer term, and leave coastlines more exposed to erosion and storm damage.
....
researchers are keen to assess whether mangrove swamps cleared prior to the tsunami, to make way for hotels or other coastal developments, may have flattened a natural wave barrier, leaving the coastline more vulnerable.
The extent of environmental damage, and what needs to be done about it, will be discussed at two international meetings to be held later this month:
- members of the programme for Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) will meet in Mauritius;
and
- the World Conference on Disaster Reduction will be held in Kobe, Japan."
source and complete article :
http://www.nature.com/news/2005/050103/full/050103-6.html
*********** Regards,
Viateur
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