Pindar launches Environmental Sponsorship

Pindar has announced an innovative partnership with Earthwatch , one of the world's leading environmental organisations, as part of a far reaching change management programme that will benefit its employees, customers and suppliers across the world.

The new agreement builds on Pindar's long standing sponsorship of sailing and will see Earthwatch working with the company to improve its environmental performance. In support of Earthwatch's pioneering Sustainable Oceans Programme, Pindar will serve as an Ocean Ambassador to the organisation and brand its sailing activities Team Pindar Earthwatch to raise awareness of the charity's work amongst new audiences.

Pindar's chairman, Andrew Pindar, says, "Good environmental management is already an integral part of how we do business. However, we wanted to move to the next level and were keen to link up with an organisation that will challenge our thinking and help us to engage with a range of important stakeholders.

"The world's oceans are a precious resource and our long association with sailing means we have a natural affinity with projects linked to the sea and climate change. Our commitment to sustainable practices will facilitate an opportunity for employees, customers and suppliers to participate, whether in the Arctic, Latin America or closer to home."

Edward Wilson, President and CEO of Earthwatch says, "The overall health of our planet is dependent on the health of our oceans. Therefore, through our Sustainable Oceans Programme, we are currently conducting research in 37 diverse locations worldwide.

"The benefit of our partnership with Pindar is two fold: it helps Earthwatch expand and enhance this vital ocean research and provides Pindar with a way to add value to its commercial operations. For sustainability to be achieved, organizations like Earthwatch must seek to partner with progressive businesses to maximize impact and effect change."

Since its formation in 1971, 85,000 people in 119 countries have participated in Earthwatch's environmental, research and education programmes. Through its global network of four offices it currently funds 300 scientists and researchers.

Team Pindar Earthwatch will be competing in a number of high profile sailing events over the next three years including the 2007 Transat Jacque Vabre, the 2008 Transat from Plymouth to Boston USA and possibly the Vendee Globe single handed non stop around the world race. Sailing for Pindar in these races is Brian Thompson and Jo Royle. Also racing for Team Pindar Earthwatch is Ian Williams in the remainder of the 2007 World Match Tour, which Ian is currently leading, a position he hopes to keep for the 2008 season.

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