As is common in lesser developed countries ecological conservation is of no priority and under constant threat. Many local non-governmental organizations (NGO’s) and non-profit associations strongly rely on volunteers in numerous environmental protection, sustainability and conservation programs.

In many cases, the main focus is on providing environmental education to locals in order to create awareness about correct preservation practices. This way, the relationship between the (industrial) society and the environment is strengthened, promoting a lifestyle that is in balance with nature.

We are continuously updating our offer of volunteering options. Currently, you can choose out of 21 ecological projects all over Latin and Central America. The following overview will give you a clear picture of what is involved being an ecological conservation volunteer:

Locations:

• National parks and bio-reserves (e.g. tropical rainforest)
• Eco-communities (e.g. reforestation areas and greenhouses)
• Wildlife parks and natural breeding grounds (e.g. turtle hatcheries)
• Zoos and conservation centers (e.g. butterfly gardens and research institutes)
• Farms or schools where conservation practices are taught and demonstrated.
• Animal rescue shelters and nurseries.

Activities:

• Research, surveys and cataloguing native species and habitats.
• Collaboration in the administration and promotional efforts through e.g. guided tours, educational campaigns and the development of ecotourism activities.
• Assist with organic agriculture and production of organic fertilizers, repellents and insecticides, medicinal plants and seeds.
• Rehabilitation of wild fauna (often endangered) at e.g. jaguar and turtle breeding grounds. 
• Lend a hand with veterinary domestic animal care, visitor relations and shelter upkeep.
• Habitat restoration (reforestation, tree planting, fertilization of plantations and control of exotic flora as well as weeds)
• Assist park rangers with infrastructure clean-ups and maintenance of tracks, fences, signs, bridges, etc.
• Building ecological homes, water harvesting cisterns, solar systems, wood saving stoves, etc.

Requirements:

• Generally an intermediate to advanced level of Spanish (e.g. for writing reports, etc.)
• High flexibility and willingness to sometimes live in basic facilities.
• Payment of volunteer fee which includes a donation to the project.
• Enthusiasm and strong commitment to the project.
• Interest in the preservation of flora and fauna (being a true nature lover!).
• Not afraid to get your hands dirty!

What are you getting in return!

• Satisfaction of contributing to reducing the harm on nature (e.g. from pollution, deforestation, commercial hunting); assuring the preservation of Mother Earth for many of our future generations to come.
• Making for a better world by encouraging the proper use of natural resources, as well as how to become self-sufficient in water, food, shelter and energy. 
• Working as a conservation volunteer you will have the opportunity to make a tremendous difference for rural citizens providing means for economic and human development, but also for wildlife and conservation foundations who otherwise would be left struggling.  
• A chance to get up and close with the rich biodiversity in some of the most beautiful and diverse environments in the world.
• The enormous fulfillment of returning abused animals and freeing newborns into the wild, as well as preventing rare and native animals being caught by poachers and traffickers.
• As an environmental conservation volunteer in Central and Latin America you can expect your days to be physically demanding, with long hours but in return you can be sure to have an immensely rewarding experience!