With an increased need for scientific information and the innovative idea of engaging the general public in this process resulted in the birth of Earthwatch in 1971. Earthwatch Institute was founded in 1971 in Boston, Massachusetts. A need to invent a new funding model for scientific research became apparent, as dwindling government funding was combined with an increased urgency in the need for scientific information and action.
Earthwatch started with just 4 hand-picked scientists from the Smithsonian Institute, and 39 volunteers working on these 4 teams. Last year, over 3,500 volunteers have worked on Earthwatch projects, which have grown to 140 projects in over 50 countries around the world.
Earthwatch Australia was founded in 1982, firstly in Sydney and now Melbourne. Earthwatch was launched in 1971 in Boston, Massachusetts USA. There are other Earthwatch offices located in Oxford, United Kingdom and Japan
Earthwatch Australia has earned the respect of organisations and agencies by involving local scientists, volunteers, business leaders and all those concerned with conservation across Australia.
Earthwatch Australia has a committed and dedicated staff in offices at Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. Our volunteer Board of Directors are responsible for the governance of Earthwatch Australia.