ISAR | Programs

Despite the high level of training of FSU environmentalists in science and industry, opportunities to build environmental infrastructure in their communities through implementing new environmental technologies, participating in environmental research and monitoring, engaging with international partners, and contributing to economic development are limited. ISAR defines environmental infrastructure as the intellectual and physical framework on which a sustainable and environmentally sound community is built. Without the ability to analyze and develop this type of infrastructure in their communities, many environmentalists are unable to participate in local development and remain an untapped resource for encouraging environmental and economic progress.

ISAR’s Environmental Infrastructure Program fosters concrete solutions to local level environmental problems in the former Soviet Union by investing in the professional development of environmental experts and by supporting the implementation and replication of environmental technologies and industries at the grassroots level. The program taps into the wealth of professional expertise in the region and engages international experts in environmentally responsible economic development programs, such as ecotourism or sustainable energy industries. By forging new avenues for environmental research, technology and business, the program focuses on building environmentally sustainable and ecologically healthy communities.

Program Priorities:

• Environmental Monitoring Projects
• Scientific Partnerships (international and local)
• Environmental Research Projects
• Technical Training Opportunities
• Community Monitoring Centers and Databanks
• Environmentally responsible economic development (eco-tourism, organic farming, etc.)

Recent Program Success Stories:

• Portsmouth-Paducah Citizen Environmental Monitoring Initiative and International Partnership Initiative