EcoWB ChatGPT model
October 4, 2024

Developments in AI are already changing all aspects of digital work and EcoWB is no exception. As a remote organization led by volunteers, we are often struggling to find the time to help new and active members understand our organization and how to get involved. Aryan Sahai, a high school junior from Seattle with a passion for using technology to make a difference understood this experience and was able to create an innovative solution for volunteer training with AI. Aryan has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) by developing a Chat GPT-based app that active volunteers can talk to learn more about all things EcoWB. The app was trained on EcoWB core documents and hosted on a user friendly cloud based platform that will allow us to continue it’s development. Aryan worked with EcoWB Vice President, Trevor Eakes, over multiple iterations that improved user friendliness and security. His innovation will get volunteers up to speed more quickly and efficiently, a constant need for our fast growing teams.


As a student at Skyline High School, Aryan is modeling how talented young people can be transformative in the wider environmental movement. His contributions to Ecologists Without Borders reflect his broader passion for science and technology. Alongside his work with us, Aryan has participated in a range of research projects, including developing AI models for pneumonia detection, promoting cybersecurity awareness, and even taking part in NASA’s Artemis ROADS challenge. We are very grateful for Aryan's contributions and happy to count him as an EcoWB volunteer. Thank you, Aryan, for your dedication and innovation! We look forward to seeing all that you continue to accomplish.


Stay tuned to learn more about our volunteers and how they are helping to support environmental conservation efforts around the world.

Supporting Those in Need During Uncertain Times

By Becky Muston • June 4, 2025
As a volunteer-supported ecological assistance organization, EcoWB contributes to the vital work of the international aid community—supporting humanitarian and conservation efforts where ecological expertise can make a meaningful difference. In recent months, critical funding and staffing for international aid once provided through U.S. government programs have been withdrawn. The effects are already visible: environmental and humanitarian programs paused, local teams let go, and progress at risk of stalling. Among the efforts most affected are those tackling biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, water pollution, and climate change—areas where EcoWB has long provided professional expertise and hands-on project support. In response, we’re actively looking for opportunities to support projects that need ecological guidance or technical capacity to keep going. With our global network of skilled volunteers, we’re well placed to step in where others no longer can. If you know of places, partners, or organizations where environmental needs are going unmet—or if you're looking to make a meaningful impact— we’d love to hear from you . We also encourage those with the means to do so to take a moment: research the organizations struggling on the frontlines, see where funding may have been cut, and consider offering your support. Now more than ever, action matters—whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply amplifying the work that still needs doing. 

EcoWB Welcomes Biljana Aljinovic as Program Manager

May 24, 2025
We are delighted to announce that Biljana Aljinovic has joined Ecologists Without Borders as our new Program Manager. Biljana brings over 15 years of experience in international conservation, having led projects across Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Her work spans both marine and terrestrial ecosystems and covers a wide range of areas, including sustainable fisheries, climate adaptation, marine regeneration, and environmental policy. She holds an MSc in Biological Sciences from the University of Padua, Italy. Raised on Mljet, a biodiverse island in the Croatian Adriatic, Biljana developed a deep connection to nature early in life. This connection has fueled her commitment to conservation and her focus on long-term impact and collaboration with local communities. In her role at EcoWB, Biljana will oversee our expanding portfolio of environmental projects, support the development of new initiatives in collaboration with partner organizations and communities worldwide, and help strengthen our internal systems to ensure we can respond swiftly and effectively to emerging needs. We’re excited to welcome Biljana to the EcoWB staff team and look forward to the expertise and energy she brings to this important role.