Conservation Research Indonesia

In July of this summer, 2018, I will be travelling to the Wallacea region of Indonesia (SE Sulawesi) to volunteer with leading University academics who are conducting critical research surrounding the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources in this area. The forests here are currently some of the least biologically studied in the world, and one of the most likely places to discover species new to science. The data gathered will be used to support a REDD+ (Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation) application which is desperately needed to ensure these forests are protected, and also that local communities are able to access a financial benefit from the conservation programme. I will also be assisting in marine research in the centre of a triangle of coral reefs in Eastern Indonesia, which are thought to have the highest overall diversity of coral reefs anywhere in the world. The Wakatobi Biosphere Reserve represents the currently protected areas of reef in this region, and one of the aims of research this summer is to provide data needed to extend the boundaries of this reserve to protect a much greater area of coral reef.
I am currently trying to raise money towards the large costs of travel, vaccinations and the training I will need to conduct research in the field and so have decided to run a sponsored half marathon this Easter (8th of April). This expedition is an opportunity of a lifetime and I am so excited to get involved in research that will make a genuine difference to an issue I really care about, and so I would be extremely grateful for any donations, however small, to help me achieve this. Thank you!