"An activist can save a tree but a scientist can save a forest."

During the summer of 2018, I will be volunteering as a research assistant in the Wallacea region of Indonesia. I will be collecting extensive data by scuba diving, which will contribute to long-term studies about the condition of the delicate coral reefs, and the behaviour and ecology of hundreds of species that live within them. Over 4 weeks, I will be working alongside scientists from around the world to collect the data necessary for their studies, which contribute to conservation efforts not only in Indonesia's Coral Triangle but also in coral reefs around the world.

All the money raised will fund the expedition, and will ultimately help pay for the scientific equipment, research facilities, science staff, medical costs and accommodation for volunteers. The expedition is run by the research organisation Operation Wallacea (www.opwall.com), which helps aspiring scientists like myself gain experience in the field while improving our environment.

The Coral Triangle in Indonesia is the most biodiverse marine ecosystem in the world, being home to around 600 species of corals, 2000 species of fish and six out of the seven species of marine turtles on Earth. Pollution, rising water temperatures and overfishing all contribute to drastic changes in the coral reefs that most of these species are simply not adapted to cope with. This is why it is so important for us to carry out research to work out the changes we can make to help them survive, before we lose them.

Hundreds of people in this area of Indonesia rely on the marine life for an income through fishing and tourism, without it they would face extremely hard times – something that could be a possibility if we don’t keep monitoring the health of these marine communities.

Any donations will be greatly appreciated, whether you are able to give 1p, £1 or even more, it will bring me one step closer to my goal.