Through the GLOBE Programme, key stage 2-4 children can measure aspects of their environment, report their findings over the internet and compare them with about 1,000 schools in almost 100 countries. Scientists use data transmitted to a central computer at NASA in the US to monitor global environmental trends. Co-ordinated in the UK by the Wildlife Trusts, the project allows participating schools to access free, downloadable images, maps, graphs and worksheets which can be used to compare environments. Some 800 teachers have been trained to use the resource in four main study areas: weather, water, soils and land cover.

Dr Andy Tasker, UK GLOBE co-ordinator

Tel: 024 7663 9663