About
The Ecological Society of America
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of scientists founded in 1915 to:
- promote ecological science by improving communication among ecologists;
- raise the public’s level of awareness of the importance of ecological science;
- increase the resources available for the conduct of ecological science; and
- ensure the appropriate use of ecological science in environmental decision making by enhancing communication between the ecological community and policy-makers.
Ecology is the scientific discipline that is concerned with the relationships between organisms and their past, present, and future environments. These relationships include physiological responses of individuals, structure and dynamics of populations, interactions among species, organization of biological communities, and processing of energy and matter in ecosystems.
The Ecological Society of America was established in 1915.
ESA’s over 9,000 members conduct research, teach, and use ecological science to address environmental issues that include:
- biotechnology
- natural resource management
- ecological restoration
- ozone depletion and global climate change
- ecosystem management
- species extinction and loss of biological diversity
- habitat alteration and destruction
- sustainable ecological systems
ESA publishes a suite of publications, from peer-reviewed journals to newsletters, fact sheets and teaching resources.
ESA’s Mission
The Ecological Society of America advances the science and practice of ecology and supports ecologists throughout their careers.
ESA’s Vision
The Ecological Society of America envisions a future where people embrace science to understand and foster a thriving planet.
ESA’s Values
- Integrity:
ESA is a trusted source of scientific knowledge that serves as a foundation for understanding and action. - Inclusion:
ESA provides the community of ecologists of diverse backgrounds, heritage, and career paths with a supportive home that advances their aspirations. - Adaptability:
ESA responds creatively to continuous change in our natural and social environments.