13th February 2009 - Bradt Travel Guides

Increased awareness of the probable effects of human activity on the ecosystem has been outstripped by the exponential growth in the number of conservation-volunteer organisations.  Many make similar-sounding, squeaky-green claims to be ‘saving the planet’, ‘giving something back’, ‘doing the right thing’ and even promise travellers the chance to ‘change their lives’.  However, when challenged, many of these groups are unable to provide credible accounts of exactly how their projects make a positive contribution towards conservation.  It’s assumed that doing something – anything – is good enough…
Peter Lynch – author of Wildlife & Conservation Volunteering: The Complete Guide – has investigated the industry that has built itself upon the best intentions of thousands of travellers.  He’s listened to reports from staff and volunteers of research data being collected but left unused; he’s heard stories of the same buildings being renovated every couple of months by different groups, and of well-meaning projects to monitor nesting sea turtles being timed outside the season.  So are all these worthy endeavours flawed and these lofty claims just so much greenhouse gas?  In Bradt’s new guide, Lynch has made a detailed assessment of 50 conservation-volunteer organisations – using a rigorous audit of nine different criteria and 50 independent parameters to grade their efficacy.  In addition, the book reveals stories from the field, details the reality of volunteering life and covers the practicalities of health, visas, insurance and how to go about fund-raising before your trip.  Lynch’s guide is an indispensible first step on a volunteer’s journey towards travelling positively.

Peter Lynch is a travel writer who has a background in biology (degree and teaching) with a strong research element (Public Health and PhD).  His training has resulted in an irritating personal affliction that won’t permit him to take anything at face value, and which leads him on a perpetual quest for substantiating evidence.

For review copies contact Travel Media – 01830 540 440 or info@travel-media.co.uk
Title:            Wildlife & Conservation Volunteering
Author:         Peter Lynch
Publisher:    Bradt Travel Guides        Publication:    February 2009
Price:           £13.99                              ISBN:        978 1 84162 275 0

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