The United Nations Environment Program/Global Resource Information Database-Christchurch, forms one of a global network of cooperating centres which collect, collate, manage, analyse and distribute environmental data and present these as information products, as well as develop and implement measures to integrate the use of such information into environmental management procedures. Work is undertaken for international, national and local authorities, programs and agencies. Activities are focussed in the Pacific Region and Antarctica, although the projects in the second of these areas are confined to those that specifically address the objectives of Agenda 21 as it relates to Antarctica.

Function
UNEP/GRID-Christchurch was established in May 1996 through a joint agreement between the Government of New Zealand and UNEP, which incorporated it within New Zealand's science academy,The Royal Society of New Zealand. The objective in establishing GRID-Christchurch was for it to assume responsibility as an effective node within the UNEP/EAP/GRID system for the Antarctic and Southern Oceans Region, in co-ordination with GRID-Arendal in Norway. In addition, GRID-Christchurch is developing programmes in the Pacific Island Region, including New Zealand, in co-ordination with UNEP and GRID-Bangkok in Thailand.
In January 1999, the management of GRID-Christchurch was handed over to the University of Canterbury, to be included as part of the new Centre for Antarctic Teaching and Research - Gateway Antarctica.

For further details of our services, please contact:
Michelle Finnemore
UNEP/GRID-Christchurch
Private Bag 4800
University of Canterbury
Christchurch
New Zealand
Tel:+64 (0)3 364 2136
Fax:+64 (0)3 364 2197
   gateway-antarctica@canterbury.ac.nz