Field Research Programmes
Earthwatch supports long-term scientific field research that tackles the world's most pressing environmental problems.
An Earthwatch volunteer collects vital data in Tanzania. © Earthwatch.
Our aim is to leave a positive legacy for future generations. To achieve this, Earthwatch works with leading scientists and local communities around the world to understand the issues and take action to create a sustainable environment.
Every year Earthwatch makes grants of over £2.5 million in support of around 120 research projects. We do this by recruiting volunteers from the general public and partner organisations to join our scientists as research assistants and share the costs of the project. This model provides essential funding for long-term research and a workforce of committed volunteers.
Earthwatch's Research Areas have been informed by global agendas and aim to influence conservation decisions. Our in-house research staff work closely with collaborating field scientists to develop new projects and drive programmes forward. To maximise its impact, Earthwatch develops strategic partnerships so that scientific results can be fed into larger decision-making bodies at local, regional and international level.
Find out more:
See the full list of projects we have supported in the last two years and find out how to apply for a research grant yourself.
Find out how we recruit volunteers from the general public and how this in turn inspires them to take action for a sustainable environment.
Find out what all our hard work in the field has been achieving over the years.
To ensure our research addresses pressing global environmental problems, Earthwatch will preferentially fund projects that fit the focus of one or more of four research areas.