Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. We believe that decision-making involving these issues not only requires objective scientific data from the field, but must engage the general public through active participation in the scientific process if it is to become widely accepted and effective. We accomplish this through three primary objectives: • Research - Supporting the field work of research scientists worldwide collecting the base line data essential for sustainable management decisions • Education - Educating and inspiring the next generation of leaders in education, business and the general public both at home and overseas • Conservation - Solving problems by active and ground-breaking collaborations with conservation and preservation partners Unlike other environmental organizations, Earthwatch Institute puts people in the field where they can assist scientists in their field work. They are part of the action, they learn new skills, and develop a deeper understanding of their role in building a sustainable future. We believe that teaching and promoting scientific literacy is the best way to systematically approach and solve the many complex environmental and social issues facing society today. We act as a unique catalyst and a liaison between the scientific community, conservation and environmental organizations, policy makers, business, and the general public. We place a strong emphasis on producing sound results and much of our work is accomplished in collaboration with conservation and education NGOs (non-government organizations) and local host country partners. We have a commitment to education offering 300 expedition fellowships to teachers and students every year. Earthwatch Institute is an international non-profit organization, founded in Boston and now with offices in Oxford, England, Melbourne, Australia and Tokyo, Japan. 50,000 members and supporters are spread across the US, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia and 3,500 of our members volunteer their time and skills to work with 120 research scientists each year on our Earthwatch field research projects in over 50 countries all around the world. Want to learn more about Earthwatch? Visit earthwatch.org .