Alcoa employees work with Earthwatch scientists<br> in Brazil, Canada and China

NEW YORK -- Alcoa Foundation announced today that 26 Alcoa employees have been selected to participate in a unique professional development opportunity with Earthwatch Institute, an environmental organization whose mission is to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. Through the 10-year partnership, nearly 150 employees from Alcoa, the world’s leading producer of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina, have contributed around 9,000 research hours to find solutions to a range of environmental and sustainability challenges.

For one week, the Alcoa Fellows will work alongside Earthwatch scientists in Brazil, Canada and China, and participate in facilitated learning sessions to expand their knowledge of how environmental issues relate to their life, communities and Alcoa. Upon return, they are also expected to create an action project to enhance the environment in their local community.

“Earthwatch expeditions provide a unique experience for Alcoans from around the world to work together with scientists on meaningful environmental projects in our key regions and then bring their learnings back to their colleagues and communities,” said Paula Davis, president, Alcoa Foundation. “Our partnership with Earthwatch Institute is a compelling way to engage our people and advance our goals around the environment and education.”

Starting august 12, the 2012 alcoa earthwatch fellows will blog and post videos, photos and stories about their experiences.

“we’re proud to celebrate our ten-year anniversary of partnership with Alcoa Foundation this year,” said Ed Wilson, CEO and president of Earthwatch. “This upcoming experience will surely enhance the employees’ knowledge and passion for the environment; help them appreciate the need for scientific research so that we can help inform proper environmental management; and instill a strong understanding of, and appreciate for, corporate responsibility.”

This year’s expeditions take place at Guyrá Farm in Brazil, the Arctic's edge in Canada and Dinghushan National Nature Reserve in China.