Ashcloud

Volcanic ash from Eyjafjallajokull is preventing air travel around Europe. Lots of people are stuck abroad. Lots of perishable produce which would have been airfreighted is stuck in the country of origin. I think there are at least two ways EVOKE folks could make a difference here. I've put a few ideas in blog posts 1 2.

=1. Diverting perishable produce, new jobs

The situation is getting critical in Kenya, where exporting horticultural produce is a major avenue for getting international money. [blog post based on report from Guardian.]

More coverage from BBC, video from a rose factory, where non-exportable flowers are being turned into compost.

Apparently the horticulture industry needs a lot of reorganizing anyway - I hear there is striking drop in water levels in Lake Naivasha as the horticulture industry is taking out much more than nature is feeding in (personal report from a friend/eyewitness). So this is a good challenge for water security folks as well!

=2. Networking stranded travellers

Facebook group: When Volcanoes Erupt: Facebook Group: Guide for stranded travelers

For Rides: Roadsharing

Loding and Rides: Get Me Home

Another web page for the stranded: Volcano Help

Another facebook page for Europeans stranded: Gathering Under the Ash Cloud

Twitter hashtags: #ashtag, #getmehome, #putmeup, #volcano

Crisis Mappers (Not specific to volcano problems but much useful information): Crisis Mappers

Could people with useful skills be matched up with opportunities to volunteer? For example teachers and doctors? We could start collecting resources networking stranded travellers.