Operation Wallacea EPQ Project - Mexico 2026!
Donation protected
Who am I?
Hi, I’m Holly, a Year 11 student interested in the sciences, with a passion for nature and travel. I am currently raising money for my upcoming expedition for my EPQ (extended project qualification) to engage in conservation efforts with Operation Wallacea - Mexico 2026!
What is Operation Wallacea?
I am very exited to say that as the 20th of May 2025, I have confirmed my place in the Operation Wallacea Summer 2026 Mexico Expedition.
Operation Wallacea - also known as Opwall - is an organisation that runs conservation and research projects across the world. Over the course of just under 30 years, Opwall has:
- Described 81 species that are new to science
- Been published in over 670 academic papers in peer-review journals
- Been used to lobby governments to create 6 Protected Areas and National Parks all over the world
- Supported communities to establish income streams that work in harmony with the environment
Hence, I would like to become part of the program both for my own educational enrichment, and to create tangible impacts in the world.
What will it involve?
Week 1: Terrestrial - Calakmul
- Jungle area of the Greater Petén Basin region
- Activities include data collection such as with transects to monitor efficacy of various existing conservation projects, and visiting cultural heritage sites including the Mayan ruins
Week 2: Marine - Akumal
- North East coast of Mexico
- Activities include diving and snorkelling, developing new skills and collecting research on turtle and seagrass biodiversity
Why do I want to do this?
I'd really like to make a difference in the environment, and it would be an absolute dream to get involved with wildlife on such a close level. I am very passionate about nature and biodiversity, and I believe that this will be both a very enriching and informative adventure, supporting me to develop real-world experience in this field and provide greater insight into my EPQ project which I intend to focus on my research of conservation efforts in terrestrial and marine ecosystems of Mexico.
What is the cost breakdown?
The total cost for this project, not including insurance for travel and activities like marine courses, is set at £3362. This covers all transport, accommodation, food and experience costs including equipment hire such as for SCUBA diving.
The raw cost, without flights and other travel, is due in 3 instalments of £790, as well as a £200 deposit that has already been supplied. The remaining fees will occur in the last 6 months before the trip.
The payments due are both large and rapidly approaching - I am motivated to take an active role in fundraising, so I have set up this GoFundMe page in order to raise money to make this all possible. In this summer holiday, after my GCSE exams, I aim to explore a variety of methods like physical posters and in-person sales. However, in the mean time I must focus on my academic responsibilities. As always, any donations and referrals are highly appreciated!
Thank you for your support,
Holly
Organizer
Holly Robertson
Organizer
England