The Center's objective is to study issues related to ongoing impacts of economic development on the terrestrial and marine environments of a small island nation to help ensure the equitable distribution of economic benefits to Palauans while conserving natural resources for the use of future generations. The Republic of Palau consists of 200 islands stretching over 400 miles, but the Center is located in a school building on Babeldaob, the largest island. Babeldaob is densely covered by lush tropical forests and isolated hamlets along the coasts. There is no system of roads, electricity or telephones linking these hamlets. The natural resources of this region are spectacular.
Verdant forests provide a haven for colorful native birds, wildlife, and endemic plant species.
An offshore reef harbors more than 625 species of coral and over 1,400 species of fish. Students must also have successfully completed one college-level ecology or biology course. No previous language study is required. Admission is on a rolling basis. Students should, however, apply as early as possible because the limited number of spaces fills quickly.