Ljubljana - Slovenia has joined the Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) programme, as part of which citizen scientists and students help scientists collect data for better understanding of the environment. In Slovenia, the programme will be implemented by centres for school and outdoor education.

The agreement under which Slovenia has joined GLOBE was signed on Thursday by Education Minister Simona Kustec and US Ambassador Lynda Blanchard. The ceremony was held on-line due to the Covid-19 epidemic.

Minister Kustec noted the efforts invested since 2017 for Slovenia to join the programme, thanking the US Embassy in Slovenia and NASA, as one of the sponsors, the embassy said in a press release.

"With Slovenia joining the GLOBE programme we are enhancing important values: curiosity, environmental awareness and interest in science. Nevertheless, most importantly, we are enhancing the value of collaboration," the minister said.

She added that the programme provided a new, exciting opportunity for youth to attain new global collaborations, while furthering the long-standing and excellent scientific collaboration between Slovenia and the US.

Blanchard welcomed Slovenia to the program. "We're reminded daily of the immense value of scientific research and collaboration. And that there is no better time than the present to continue strengthening our deep scientific ties by welcoming Slovenia to this vibrant, global community."

According to the ambassador, the programme will expand the collaboration to the youngest scientists in the countries' respective societies, enriching the learning experience of every student with the knowledge that they are part of a larger, more connected worldwide effort.

Since 1995, GLOBE students have contributed over 190 million measurements to the GLOBE database for use in their inquiry-based science projects, the embassy said.

Tens of thousands of GLOBE-trained teachers across the world have used the programme to improve students' science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills, raise environmental awareness, and foster regional and international ties.

It is supported by NASA with support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the US Department of State.

In Slovenia, this program will be managed by the Education Ministry and operated by the Centre for School and Outdoor Education.