Earthwatch rated among top volunteering organisations
A new guide to volunteering names Earthwatch as one of the top international wildlife and conservation organisations.
Bradt's Wildlife & Conservation Volunteering, The Complete Guide, is the first book of its kind to use a scoring system that allows readers to compare 50 organisations on categories such as credibility, cost, safety and achievements. Earthwatch is the only organisation to score maximum points for its ‘demonstrable achievements' - the area which the book describes as "potentially the most important criterion for assessing organisations".
Senior Research Director at Earthwatch, Nat Spring, says, "We are delighted that our achievements are recognised in this guide. The contribution that volunteers make to our research cannot be underestimated. Working side by side with some of the world's leading scientists as ‘Citizen Scientists', Earthwatch volunteers make a valuable contribution and gain a unique understanding of key global environmental issues."
Earthwatch also scores maximum points for the pre-departure preparation which it provides to volunteers, and scores exceptionally highly on ‘safety measures' - the category itemising plans and procedures that organisations may have in place to minimise risks.
"The quality of volunteers' experience, and their safety while they are part of a team is a top priority," Nat continues. "We are delighted that this guide recognises our commitment and the care our staff put into preparing volunteers for expeditions and ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience."
The author of the book, Peter Lynch, recently placed Earthwatch's expedition to the Peruvian Amazon, Amazon Riverboat Exploration, as the number one choice in a ‘Top 10 Conservation Holidays' feature in BBC Wildlife magazine.
The results of Earthwatch research help ensure the long-term survival of endangered species and habitats, by influencing conservation decisions at local, regional and international level. The charity's recent successes include the designation of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baja, Mexico, informed by data gathered by Earthwatch volunteers about populations of endangered black sea turtles. Sea turtles are highly endangered worldwide due to poaching, pollution, climate change and fisheries.
Come along to our Expedition Open Day in Oxford on 18 April to find out more and to meet staff and past volunteers.
- Wildlife and Conservation Volunteering, The Complete Guide, by Peter Lynch, is published in the UK by Bradt Travel Guides (£13.99). The guide is published in the USA by The Globe Pequot Press (US$21.99).
Editor's Notes