ISDSI and its programs are unaffected by the flooding in Bangkok and surrounding areas. While there was some brief flooding here in Chiang Mai last month (late September), it was localized to areas near the river and only lasted a few days.

The flooding in Bangkok and surrounding areas in the Central Plains is much more severe in both duration and extent. While the full extent of the flooding remains to be seen, it will have a long and significant impact on Thailand’s economy and people.

Our current course (Forests) takes place in Northern Thailand, far from the flooding in Bangkok. For our Oceans course in Southern Thailand, we can route around Bangkok if necessary as we travel to the southern villages and islands where the course takes place.

Our hearts go out to the thousands who are displaced from their homes in Bangkok. As people concerned with sustainability, we are not surprised to see flooding like this as the natural drainage systems and flood plains have been paved over and built on over the years.  Even knowing the ecological inevitability of a disaster like this, however, we are saddened to see the human suffering that results.