ECOLOGIA works with innovative leaders in dynamic, fluid situations - often before trends are dominant or even clear to others. From our seventeen years of experience working in "societies in transition" (undergoing rapid and significant economic, social and cultural change), we have a cross-cultural perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing every sector of society in such circumstances.

our work operates on a distinctive model of fostering community organizational capacity, promoting sustainble development, and linking grassroots experience with regional and global policy-making. ECOLOGIA's current programs include:

We use our experience to develop ECOLOGIA programs that are appropriate to promoting sustainable development in China. We provide international linkages and appropriate support so that the Chinese people can more effectively contribute to sustainable development - long-term solutions to social, economic and environmental problems - both within China and on a global scale. We support socially responsible Chinese entrepreneurs and environmentally sustainable community development and poverty alleviation.

ECOLOGIA works on global policy issues through its membership in the Geneva-based ISO (International Organization for Standardization). In the past, ECOLOGIA has contributed to ISO 14000 (Environmental Management Systems), especially the writing of a greenhouse gas accounting standard. Since 2005, ECOLOGIA has participated in the development of ISO 26000, which is designed to provide guidance to social responsibility for organizations around the world.

Through institutions such as Middlebury College, the MESPOM program (Masters in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management) of the European Commission's Erasmus Mundus university consortium, and the World Leadership Corps, ECOLOGIA provides meaningful, on-the-ground international service learning experiences for undergraduate and graduate students. ECOLOGIA's "China Working Group" at Middlebury College carries out the theme of "Liberal Arts / Global Action".

ECOLOGIA designs and hosts a variety of environmental and human services exchange programs. Visitors to the United States build connections to like-minded Americans working in their field, as they meet with specialists who provide in-depth training and partnership possibilities. Visitors enrich the American communities they encounter by sharing their knowledge and perspectives. ECOLOGIA has worked with over 350 individuals from such countries as Russia, China, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Poland, Estonia, and Tajikistan.

Building global civil society by conecting donors to community projects worldwide

ECOLOGIA's online philanthropy program supports environmental, human health, and sustainable development projects designed by grassroots groups from around the world. The emphasis is on small scale and affordable (under $2000) projects. Donors from any nation can visit the website, (www.virtualfoundation.org) and select projects to fund. A network of local partners oversees the projects' completion. The Virtual Foundation is currently active in Central America, Russia, China, Nepal, Eastern Africa, Central Asia, and Central Europe.