Earthwatch selects HSBC volunteers for 2006

Another 12 HSBC Bank Malta employees have been selected to participate in Earthwatch environmental research projects around the world next year.

Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research to assist with environmental projects. The names of the successful Maltese candidates will be announced towards the end of the year.

Every year 500 HSBC Group employees are selected for an Employee Environmental Fellowship as part of the group's US$50 million 'Investing in Nature' initiative, which helps Earthwatch support environmental projects. Since its launch in 2002, 36 HSBC Bank Malta employees have already been selected for this programme.

"This is a great opportunity not only to benefit the environment, but to enhance the personal development of our colleagues," Shaun Wallis, chairman of HSBC Cares for the Environment Fund, said.

"When you consider that Employee Environmental Fellowships are open to the 260,000 employees working for HSBC around the world, the fact that Maltese applicants are so successful is a clear indication not only of the high calibre of our colleagues but also of the local interest in the environment.

"Interest in the programme has continued to grow in Malta and Earthwatch has been impressed by the enthusiasm demonstrated and the increasing quality of applications from Maltese applicants," Tom Burstow, programme manager, Environmental Engagement, at Earthwatch said.