Contact for further information: Andrew Sier, CEH - General communication issues E-mail...
	Ben Delbaere, ECNC - Fundraising issues E-mail...

For a network like ALTER-Net to be effective it's important that we communicate effectively, both between members and with others outside of ALTER-Net. Our communication and knowledge transfer activities are guided by a communication strategy. Up to now we have had six main objectives:

1. To raise awareness of ALTER-Net, so that people can understand and value the network and its outputs
2. To inform about biodiversity research, particularly that undertaken by ALTER-Net’s partners and associates
3. To translate ALTER-Net’s findings into policy and societal contexts
4. To provide the means for dialogue between ALTER-Net and stakeholder groups
5. To listen to the views and requests of stakeholder groups and to respond appropriately
6. To aid effective teamwork and partnership building amongst ALTER-Net members.

Who we communicate with

Our target audiences are: the biodiversity and ecosystem research community; European policymakers; reserve managers and conservationists; relevant NGOs and the wider public.

We will be reviewing our communication and outreach strategy during the Summer of 2011.

Communication and outreach activities

Our current communication and outreach activities currently include:

• This ALTER-Net website
• Our Nature and Biodiversity News & Views website, aimed at the wider public
• NatureNewsViews Twitter feed: follow us!
• Flyers & posters (currently being updated)
• Liaising with policymakers (see Policy interface)
• Staff of ALTER-Net member insitutes attend many scientific conferences and meetings (we try to indicate events where ALTER-Net is involved on our Events listing)