a) START supports region specific programs and activities through fellowships, training workshops, and training and research institutes to increase the number of scientists in developing countries.

b) Involve creating and maintaining a network to disseminate new global change information to local and regional organisations and individuals, and to transmit local and regional global change related information to the international agencies.

c) The overarching aim is to contribute to research on global change in areas of the world where such access to resources and networks are scarce. It is expected that the research outcomes will further contribute to African region and country specific issues of sustainable development.