Next summer I will be volunteering with Operation Wallacea for 4 weeks, working alongside academic researchers to conduct vital biodiversity and conservation projects in Mexico.

Operation Wallacea (Opwall) is a conservation research organisation that is funded by, and relies on, teams of student volunteers to work on real-world research programs. The Operation Wallacea programme provides the opportunity to consider science and conservation of key ecosystems from a global perspective. Opwall is able to draw upon researchers from a wide range of different disciplines to address major issues related to the sustainable management and conservation of some of the world’s most diverse but threatened environments.

Whilst in Mexico, I will spend 2 weeks in Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, contributing to collecting data to assess the impact of climate change on biodiversity and to monitor sustainable development projects that aim to maintain forest cover and abundance of fauna. I will then move to the Akumal marine site gathering data necessary to determine the carrying capacity of tourists in Akumal to ensure that the delicate marine ecosystem is protected and a sustainable income is generated for local people.

As a volunteer, I would love to be part of such important scientific research, making a difference to some of the most endangered wildlife in the world. I believe it is of utmost importance to conserve and take care of our natural environment so that future generations can enjoy it's beauty as we do. The money which I manage to raise will go towards making these expeditions possible, from accommodation to essential field equipment, Operation Wallacea depends on independent funding of student volunteers to continue specialist conservation projects on a global scale.

Any donations, no matter how small, would be hugely appreciated!
Thanks for the support!

Jaimee