Every creature on this planet, no matter how big or small, has a distinct and invaluable role in the ecosystem that it lives in. Each species is dependent on the existence and contributions of another. It’s a delicate balance that, if disrupted, can cause chaos. This is why some people are so passionate about wildlife conservation and protecting endangered species and their habitats.
If you’re looking to get started and support wildlife conservation, there are
some unbelievably easy ways to make an impact! From staying informed about
conservation trends to organizing a beach cleanup, here are the four best ways
to do it.
1. Stay informed about endangered species
You’ve probably heard the expression “knowledge is power,” and it’s so true. In order to protect wildlife and their habitats, you need to learn which species are endangered as well as learn about what’s threatening them. It’s difficult to help if you don’t know where to start, but by researching and learning about the wildlife in your local area, you can find a good place to begin your efforts.
Not sure where to start learning? You can do some research online, or you can go straight to the source by visiting a national wildlife refuge or park. Some zoos that participate in wildlife conservation efforts are a good source of information too. Visiting in person allows you the opportunity to ask the experts directly, as well as observe some of the animals that are affected by habitat destruction.
One zoo that has made great strides is the Gulf Breeze Zoo in Florida. Its CEO, Eric Mogensen, has initiated a number of wildlife conservation efforts. You can read all about his contributions here: https://www.gbzoo.com/eric-mogensen. Eric’s story is proof that if you care about a cause, you can to help make a difference worldwide.
2. Support businesses that donate and support wildlife conservation efforts
If you are able to donate to an organization that supports wildlife conservation, you can make a huge impact on their reach. Donating directly will provide the biggest impact, but you can also make a difference by choosing to support businesses that donate a portion of their profits to conservation efforts.
Check the business’ website and social media profiles to see if they advertise that they support conservation organizations. Sometimes businesses will also match direct donations, so that is another thing to watch out for to maximize your contributions.
3. Protect the environment around you
One of the best and easiest ways to help with wildlife preservation is to actively work to preserve the environment that those animals live in. Always work to reduce your environmental impact and footprint, whether you’re at home, school, or work.
You can help protect the environment by:
- Reducing your overall waste by consuming less and using less plastic
- Reusing whatever products you still can
- Buying from secondhand shops instead of buying new
- Recycling whatever you can
- Avoiding disposable products or products with a lot of wasteful packaging that cannot be recycled
You can also do your part by conserving energy. When you’re not home or in a room of your home, turn the lights off. Unplug kitchen appliances and electronics when they aren’t in use or plug them into power bars that can switch off when you aren’t using them. If you have a car, try to drive less, or only when completely necessary, to avoid extra pollution into the atmosphere.
Try and conserve the amount of water you use every day as well. You can turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, have quicker showers instead of baths, and use a dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes.
If you have a lawn or backyard, a good way to help your local habitats is to plant flowers, trees and shrubbery that are native to your area. It helps feed the local wildlife, gives them a place to nest and raise families, and offers them shelter during poor weather. Whatever you do, stay away from chemical pesticides.
4. Organize community initiatives
Take the initiative in your community and hold your own environmental activities to help get others involved in protecting the environment. You could make posters and promote your community event on social media to help get the message out, plus ask your friends and family to join you and help spread the word. Some ideas for community initiatives could include:
- A local garbage clean-up /beach clean up
- Tree planting
- Starting a community garden to grow fruits and vegetables
