Ecoinformatics is the science of information in Ecology and Environmental science. It aims to a synthesis of the sciences of the environment and of information that defines the entities and processes of natural systems in a language that both humans and computers can process. Data about natural systems are heterogeneous, scattered and uncoordinated. Ecoinformatics aims to facilitate environmental research and management by developing ways to not only access, but also integrate databases of environmental information and computational services such as predictive models, analytical, and planning tools.

The Ecoinformatics Collaboratory, part of the Gund Institute for Ecological Economics at the University of Vermont, is committed to unifying the science and management of the natural and human environment in a new synthesis inspired by the latest developments of information technology. In an age of increased realization of the close feedback between humans and the environment, and of the responsibility that this entails, we are contributing novel technologies, openly accessible data and models, and innovative education to promote a breakthrough in the effectiveness of environmental research, decision-making and policy-making. We want to see the role of the World Wide Web switch from a loosely indexed, unstructured "encyclopedia" to an open collaboratory where knowledge can be not only located without ambiguity, but also explored, produced, and communicated. We want the web to provide guided, coherent pathways that can guide effective learning - for students, researchers, and decision-makers.

Feel free to explore our projects, our technological offers, our collaborations, and our teaching on this site. We also maintain a separate web site for more advanced topics in integrated modelling at www.integratedmodelling.org. Many sections of our collaborative wiki space are open for discussion. And of course, feedback is always appreciated.