In the latest instance of computing heavyweights teaming up with environmental organizations, Hewlett-Packard has developed a partnership with the World Wildlife Fund that will apply both groups' expertise to the problems posed by climate change.

Together, the groups will launch three programs that aim to make the daily, real-world effects of climate change apparent and will help promote and coordinate solutions to the crisis.

The projects focus on analysis, research and data collection. First up is the creation of the Epicenter for Climate Conservation, which is focused on advancing climate adaptation and resiliency strategies and projects around the globe. the Epicenter for Climate Conservation will be driven by HP technology and led by Dr. Lara Hansen, chief climate scientist of WWF.

The second program is called Climate Witness, an online forum that serves to raise global awareness of the tangible consequences of climate change. Climate Witness will gather the stories of individuals and communities affected by climate change and share them with the world.

Finally, the third program is called "Information and Communication Technology Innovation as a Driver of Climate Change Solutions." This program will work to identify 1 billion tons of carbon reductions through the use of information and communication technology.

"Climate change may be the most significant environmental challenge of our era," said Suzanne Apple, WWF's VP of Business and Industry. "Now is the time for partnership and action. HP and WWF are committed to addressing the causes of climate change and limiting its impact on the planet."

HP's investment in these projects is part of the company's ongoing initiative with WWF in the United States, first established in November 2006, to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from its operating facilities worldwide; develop measures for product energy usage; educate and inspire others to adopt best practices; and, use HP technology in conservation efforts around the world.

"These initiatives are part of HP's comprehensive philanthropic and environmental strategy that uses technology to help reduce our own environmental impact, as well as that of our customers, partners and suppliers," said Pat Tiernan, HP's vice president of Corporate, Social and Environmental Responsibility. "Our contribution to these projects will deliver measurable results that we hope will encourage action from corporations, individuals and governments around the world."