The ECUS mission is to inspire, educate and engage people in making the Earth Charter’s vision and principles for sustainability a reality through policy initiatives, community actions, and lifestyle changes. The Earth Charter is a global declaration and commitment for a sustainable future that was written by thousands of people in 78 countries over the course of ten years and launched at The Hague Peace Palace in 2000. The Earth Charter’s 16 principles provide an ethical framework for sustainability that include environmental, economic and social factors, participatory democracy and a culture of peace.