Maynard, MA , February 6, 2004 - Earthwatch Institute announced today that Alcoa support has enabled the participation of 16 Alcoa employees in scientific research expeditions around the world as part of a unique three-way partnership that simultaneously advances the pursuit of sustainable development, improves relationships between the sciences and industry, and offers personal development for the Fellows.
"This partnership is tremendously beneficial to the environment through its support of field science," said Earthwatch Director of Corporate Programs, Shawn Fitzgibbons. "By committing their own vacation time to an Earthwatch program supported by Alcoa funding, these Alcoa employees are helping scientists accomplish the hard work of field research. At the same time, the Fellows are developing first-hand understanding of the environmental and cultural issues that influence the way business is conducted."
The participating employees, a diverse group representing Alcoa's varied business activities and drawn from Alcoa operations worldwide, will become working field research assistants. They will participate for up to two weeks under the guidance of leading scientists to carry out an array of vital research activities in some of the world's most remarkable ecosystems.
Pat Atkins, Alcoa's Director of Environmental Affairs, said, "The path to sustainability rests in viable partnerships like this, and we see this as a two-way experience. It is an opportunity to gain more respect for and understanding of nature and for each other. Alcoa employees, who are immersed in the business environment on a day-to-day basis, will have the opportunity to experience the natural environment from a totally different perspective and interact with people who probably have much different views on environmental and sustainability issues."
Alcoa Earthwatch Fellows publish their expedition diaries on alcoa.com. The first Fellows begin their assignments in May. A list of 2004 Alcoa Fellows, their home towns, and their worldwide project assignments is available on request.
For more information about what it is like on an Earthwatch field research expedition please visit this link: Frequently Asked Questions . For more information about the Earthwatch Alcoa partnership please visit this link: http://www.alcoa.com/global/en/environment/ew/earthwatch.asp
Information about Alcoa
Alcoa is the world's leading producer of primary aluminum, fabricated alumina, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components, Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap® foils and plastic wraps, Alcoa( ® ) wheels, and Baco( ® ) household wraps. Among its other businesses are vinyl siding, closures, fastening systems, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks. The company has 120,000 employees in 41 countries. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com
Read Earthwatch Diaries from Alcoa expeditioners
Information about Earthwatch Institute
Earthwatch Institute (www.earthwatch.org) is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1971 which supports scientific field research worldwide by offering members of the public unique opportunities to work alongside leading field scientists and researchers. The Institute's mission is to promote sustainable conservation of our natural resources and cultural heritage by creating partnerships between scientists, educators, and the general public.
Media enquiries:
Kevin Lowery
Alcoa
Telephone: 412-553-1424
E-mail: kevin.lowery@alcoa.com
Shawn Fitzgibbons
Director of Corporate Programs
Earthwatch Institute
Telephone: 978-450-1252
E-mail: sfitzgibbons@earthwatch
Earthwatch Institute is an international nonprofit organization which supports scientific field research worldwide by offering members of the public unique opportunities to work alongside leading field scientists and researchers. The Institute's mission is to engage people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment.