The International Biological Programme took the form of an evolving process which occupied some five years of preliminary planning, followed by a decade of work. Just how it was conceived, initiated, conducted and completed is set down in this volume. The programme's successes and shortcomings are discussed, as it its relevance to future coordinated research. Much useful background data on the organisation of IBP, its publications, meetings and other relevant information are presented in the appendices. An IBP booklet on recommended quantities, units and symbols is reprinted in its entirety. Dr Worthington has incorporated a number of contributions from leading personalities of the IBP, so that this overall account, first published in 1975, will be of great value to those concerned with science policy, planning and administration. It will be of great benefit also to anyone going on to read the other volumes in the series.