Using Google Earth Outreach, any organisation can quickly and easily get the resources it needs to create compelling stories through Google Earth layers. The programme includes comprehensive online guides, video tutorials and case studies about using Google Earth specifically targeted to the needs of non-profit organisations.
In addition, there are online forums connecting new participants to Global Awareness partners and experienced programmers who can assist in developing Keyhole Markup Language (KML) layers for Google Earth. These forums, actively moderated by Google Earth Outreach staff, serve to foster discussion and cooperation among organisations and the broader Google Earth community.
"Google's mission is all about making information more accessible and useful," said Elliot Schrage, vice president, global communications and public affairs, Google. "With programmes like Google Earth Outreach, we seek to help create a 'marketplace of ideas' in the growing not-for-profit sector that rivals and complements what we offer commercial enterprises. In a very practical way, Google Earth Outreach demonstrates that technology can inspire action by bringing seemingly distant problems closer to home."
Organisations can also now apply online for Google Earth Pro grants (a $400 value); grantees will receive additional technical support from Google. Participating organisations may be highlighted in the Google Earth Outreach Showcase, an online gallery of the most compelling new layers, and a subset of those will be featured in the Global Awareness folder in Google Earth on a rotating basis.
John Hanke, director, Google Earth and Maps, also announced three new Global Awareness layers for Google Earth: Global Heritage Fund (GHF) – The GHF Global Awareness layer explores cultural heritage sites around the world that GHF is working to preserve for future generations. From ancient Mayan Mirador pyramids buried in Guatemalan forests threatened by clear cutting to the crumbling Lijiang Ancient Town in China, GHF takes users to these endangered archaeological treasures of human civilisation and details the efforts to save them in partnership with local governments and resources.
Earthwatch Expeditions – The Earthwatch Global Awareness layer enables users to virtually visit more than 100 volunteer Earthwatch expeditions in Google Earth — from recording the activities of lemurs in Madagascar to determining the impact of climate change on grey whale populations in Mexico and Canada. Enthusiasts and would-be volunteers can explore scientific field research projects in progress around the world and learn how they can help collect field data in the areas of rainforest ecology, wildlife conservation, marine science, archaeology and more.
Fair Trade Certified – The TransFair USA layer introduces users to over 70 Fair Trade Co-ops located throughout Latin America, Asia and Africa. Fair trade is an innovative market-based approach to sustainable development that helps family farmers in developing countries gain direct access to markets and develop the business capacity necessary to compete in the global marketplace.
"Google Earth represents a whole new way for us to connect with the world," explains Ed Wilson, pesident and CEO, Earthwatch. "Not only can we inform people about key environmental issues facing the world today, but we can give them the opportunity to get directly involved. From our NGO and corporate partners to our dedicated researchers and volunteers, Google Earth provides us all with a centralised tool to communicate our mission -- and maximise our impact." |
