The public needs a basic understanding of how the Earth works as an integrated system in order to make informed decisions regarding science, management and society.  Yet science illiteracy is at an all-time high.  It comes at no surprise to anyone who has picked up a magazine in the grocery line or turned on the news in the last five years that the media coverage of say Michael Jackson, the Middle East and remedies for middle-aged bulges swamps the media coverage of Earth science issues.  Sadly, it is only when natural hazards occur (tsunamis, hurricanes) that the public reads at least a little bit about processes fundamental to what it means to live on planet Earth.

The Science Writer-at-Sea program is one small step in a marathon need for improved coverage of science and environmental issues.  It targets two significant links in the Earth science communication pipeline: marine scientists and journalists; and attempts to reconnect people with the Earth by boosting their understanding of Earth science and its relevance to society.

• How it Works
• Outcomes
• Future Plans 
  
  

.	Science Writer-At-Sea Team Leaders
	Kristen Kusek (Project design and implementation)
	Katja Freitag (Project management and implementation, Website design)

.	Current Partners
	InterRidge
	Columbia University Earth & Environmental Science Journalism

Contact Us:
Kristen M. Kusek