SciDev.Net

This non-profit alliance of more than 200,000 citizens and scientists uses scientific evidence to lobby governments, corporations and consumers to act responsibly for the benefit of society. They often commission their own research into topics such as global warming or GM crops. Their interest in antibiotic resistance focuses on reducing the use of antibiotics in food animals. They advocate better treatment of animals — by using grass-fed systems, for example — to lower the need for drugs. The union encourages the public to get involved by writing to political representatives and signing petitions. The website also has a news section and links to related networks.   

The Wellcome Trust is a non-profit organisation that funds research into diseases that affect humans and animals. The website is aimed at the general public, and describes some of the research funded by the trust. There is comprehensive and accessible coverage of the science underlying malaria research. It also offers a downloadable animation of the life cycle of the parasite.

The foundation's aim is to raise awareness of diabetes worldwide, with a special emphasis on developing countries. A key activity is funding projects (142 so far) that raise awareness, improve education and build capacity at local, regional and global levels. The website contains details of all ongoing projects, including details of the project budgets and individuals responsible for running them, the expected impacts and results so far. Importantly, the foundation prioritises monitoring and evaluation of its projects to learn key lessons for the future and minimise the risk of project failure.

As with any disease, and particularly those in developing countries, the health economics are important. The website has a useful tool for calculating the economic cost of diabetes in a particular country that allows the user to change variables such as population, prevalence and so on.

The World Wildlife Fund in Bhutan collaborates with the Bhutan government to develop an integrated conservation programme. The programme focuses on immediate conservation needs such as setting up and managing protected areas, developing institutional capacity to manage natural resources, and promoting conservation education and public awareness.