David Litchfield completed a second undergraduate degree in Geosciences with the Open University and is currently studying part-time for an MSc in Geophysical Hazards at UCL. He has a broad interest in hazard monitoring methods and how geoscientists communicate their findings with those who need it, and retains a strong connection with the Andean highlands of Ecuador. This summer, David is volunte ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Blog Competition (Highly Commended) – Omeye Chimaobi Kenechukwu: Floods in Nigeria
For our Blog Competition 2013, we asked people to submit articles addressing one of two topics. Omeye’s article discusses a recent flooding event that resulted in disaster in Nigeria, and his entry was highly commended by our judging panel. Omeye is a second year geology student at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. When he graduates, Omeye wants to work as a geologist and have a positive ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Friday Photo (98) – Hydroelectric Energy in Ladakh
Hydroelectric power plants are being developed across the Himalayas. Here, a small-scale system is used to store energy during times of peak supply from other sources, and deliver energy during times of peak demand. This system relies on the shuttling of river water (seen in the background) between different elevations. (c) Geology for Global Development 2013
Geology for Global Development
Dialogues for Disaster Anticipation and Resilience – Your Help Needed!!
Following a recent discussion with staff at the Humanitarian Futures Programme, an independent policy research initiative based at King’s College London, an important opportunity emerged for YOU to support one of their programmes. The ‘Dialogues for Disaster Anticipation and Resilience’ project is designed to bridge the gap between those who make science and those who use science ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Film Review: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
Rosalie Tostevin reviews ‘Salmon Fishing in the Yemen’, the on screen adaptation of Paul Torday’s novel. A visionary Sheikh (Amr Waked) dreams of bringing his beloved sport, fly-fishing, to his home in the Yemeni desert. He seeks help from a consultant (Emily Blunt), who turns to Britain’s leading fisheries expert, Dr Fred Jones (Ewan McGregor). The project seems both abs ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Guest Blog: A Summer of Volcanic Observation in Ecuador (4)
David Litchfield completed a second undergraduate degree in Geosciences with the Open University and is currently studying part-time for an MSc in Geophysical Hazards at UCL. He has a broad interest in hazard monitoring methods and how geoscientists communicate their findings with those who need it, and retains a strong connection with the Andean highlands of Ecuador. This summer, David is volunte ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Blog Competition (1st Prize) – Philip Irwin: In Unity We Trust
For our Blog Competition 2013, we asked for people to submit articles addressing one of two topics. Philip Irwin’s article makes an argument for the inclusion of development education in geoscience courses, and it won first prize in its category. Philip did BSc Geology at Durham University where he developed an interest in environmental hazards. He then spent some time travelling to places ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Friday Photo (97): Solar Power in Ladakh
Energy resources are a key issue in the mountainous Ladakh Region of India – all oil has to be imported by lorry over windy mountain passes that are often blocked by landslides. Any methods by which Ladakh can produce its own energy are very welcome. Solar panels can provide a significant amount of energy during the summer, but they are expensive and difficult to maintain due to the high lev ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
Peligros Geológicos: Conference in Arequipa
We’ve heard about an event that some of our followers in South America (and elsewhere!) may be interested in. The conference will cover risk reduction, development projects, urban planning and more. Peligros Geológicos will be held in Arequipa City, Peru, between the 14th and 16th October 2013, and there is currently a call for posters. More information can be found on the website: h ...[Read More]
Geology for Global Development
The Long Life of Ruzi Mohammed
Ruzi Mohammed thinks that he is around 110 years old. He keeps track of the years using the changing seasons, and there is no missing them in Turtuk, where winters reach -20˚C, and summers are warm and pleasant. Too high for mosquitos, and low enough for a good harvest, Turtuk is a paradise in the summer. The winter is survived by shutting down, almost hibernating, and surviving on wheat mixed wit ...[Read More]