Research panel to study Mideast climate change
Posted by Zawya
Khaleej Times
27 July 2010


DUBAI - An Indian research foundation has announced the launch of a dedicated programme to study the impact of climate change in the Middle East and the health problems it poses.

Scientists at the Shantigiri Research Foundation of Kerala have initiated the study on the environmental
and health issues faced by the
region, which is home to millions of expatriate workers.

To create an awareness about the programme among the public, especially the large expatriate community, the foundation is holding a seminar on 'Middle East Climate Change
and Health Research Programmes' in Kerala's capital Thiruvananthapuram on September 10, organisers said
in Dubai.

The one-day panel discussion, involving renowned climate researchers and medical experts from the Middle East, is part of a three-day international conference on 'Global Warming, Climate Change and Sustainable Development' running from September 9 to12.

An estimated 100,000 people from all over the world are expected to participate. During the conference, the President of India, Pratibha Patel, will dedicate a lotus-shaped prayer house, organisers said.

"There has been little awareness about the significance of water conservation and the threat of environmental pollution in the Middle East," said Swami Gurumithran Jnana Thapaswi, Senior Member of the General Council of Shantigiri Research Foundation, a division of Shantigiri Ashram.

"The seminar seeks to bring to focus the need for conservation of water and the rationalisation of the use of this vital life force and issues related to water and climatic conditions," he added.

"Global warming is considered to be the major threat for peace in the ongoing millennium. Wars in future are
predicted to be in the name of water and natural resources. So it is the
responsibility of any individual to resist global warming by any means," said Swami Gurumithran, who was in Dubai on a brief visit.

Noted film director and actor Madhupal, who is coordinating the seminars, said climate change and environment issues are very critical for the Middle East, which is home to people from more than 180 countries. "The aim of the seminar is to create awareness about the environmental concerns of this region."

Ajith Pillai, GCC Convenor of the Research Foundation, said Shantigiri's Dubai clinic had already embarked on a research on skin and other ailments related to climate change.

"We expect the research results will be out by the end of this year. We will do the follow-up treatment for these patients at Shantigiri," he added.

By Issac John

© Khaleej Times 2010

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