RECENT ACTIVITIES

Since its foundation in February 2007, Earthsight has engaged in a number of investigative, research and training projects with NGO, media and government partners. The following list includes some highlights of part and ongoing work.

Natural Resources & Conflict in East-DRC Natural Resources & Conflict in East-DRC : In early 2007, Earthsight conducted field investigations in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), South Sudan and NW Uganda into the trade in natural resources and connections with armed conflict. New evidence was obtained of ongoing illegal trade and exports of timber and the involvement of various armed groups, including those of rebel commander Laurent Nkunda, whose forces are currently engaged in some of the worst fighting seen in the region
Illegal Deforestation in Indonesia and Biofuels in Europe Illegal Deforestation in Indonesia and Biofuels in Europe - Earthsight conducted in-depth research and investigations in Indonesia into the use of palm oil from illegally cleared forests for the production of biofuel used in the UK and Europe. The findings helped influence the EU in drafting legislation prohibiting imports of biofuels produced in an unsustainable way.
Electronic Waste Smuggling Electronic Waste Smuggling – Working with EU partners, Earthsight has begun researching and investigating the illegal trade in electronic waste from the UK and Europe to West Africa and China. This multi-million pound illicit business is a major source of heavy metals pollution. Filming and investigations are ongoing.
Unethical Finance Unethical Finance – Research is ongoing into the murky world of off-shore and unethical finance practices by major international banking organisations, and investigations are planned.
Small Arms Trade Small Arms Trade – Earthsight is developing a programme of research and undercover investigative work related to the illegal trade in small arms, light weapons and torture devices
Philippines Philippines - Working with the Philippine Centre for Transnational Crime and the International Organisation for Migration, Earthsight has developed and delivered a programme of training in tackling international timber smuggling for a braod range of Philippine enforcement officials, including customs and intelligence agencies.
Liberia Liberia – Earthsight has conducted a scoping mission with partner organisation Forests Monitor to develop a programme of capacity building for NGOs and government officials in Liberia. The training will provide equipment and skills necessary to help detect, record and report cases of illegal forestry activities. The trade in stolen timber played a major part in fuelling Liberia’s recent civil war.