Aiding research with Operation Wallacea

Operation Wallacea are a non-profit organisation that undertake essential environmental research across the globe with the aid of academic partnerships, namely students like myself.

For 6 weeks next summer (19/6 - 30/7) I will take on the role of a research assistant at Operation Wallacea's base in Indonesia, helping to carry out some of the essential research that underpins scientific exploration and discovery within these fragile ecosystems.

Whilst there I will split my time between terrestrial and marine work, gaining a true insight to the type of research that is undertaken by conservationists globally. Two weeks will spent in the forests of the Wallacea region on Buton Island, undertaking biodiversity surveys; and a further month will spent diving and collecting data on Hoga Island in the Wakatobi Marine National Park which is at the heart of the Coral Triangle; one of the most biodiverse coral reefs in the world.

Of the money myself and other volunteers raise, a small proportion goes to training volunteers like me however what it is most important is that the majority of all funds raised supports this vital research carried out by Operation Wallacea scientists and ultimately the longevity and success of these fragile ecosystems.