A number of Earthwatch projects are helping to predict the impact of climate change on fauna and flora.

The organisation says 'many people feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental issues and think they as individuals can't do anything to help'.

'You can,' it says.

Earthwatch volunteers help scientists conduct vital research into the link between climate change and eco-systems.

Dr Rob Thomas told a meeting in London how one Earthwatch project, 'Storm Petrels over Portugal', is allowing scientists to understand the link between climate change and ocean eco-systems.

Storm petrels are tiny atlantic seabirds that eat while hovering over water. They spend most of their lives at sea, coming ashore only at night during the breeding season.

The birds need to store fat reserves necessary for migration to southern Africa, but can only do this in cold water.

Rising temperature of seawater in the Atlantic seems to be affecting their ability to store fat reserves.

Earthwatch volunteers work at night on the southern coast of Portugal to gather data on the birds.

Volunteers catch the birds to weigh and tag them. They then take photographs and genetic samples. Thus providing essential data and ensuring a safe departure on their migratory path.