Real Gap Experience
This year has certainly been a defining one for climate change activists; global warming, environmental concerns and the importance of wildlife preservation have made their way to the forefront of international issues in a series of global talks and summits. For many conservation enthusiasts, however, the most important date of the year is yet to come.
The 12th of November is a significant date on the calendars of nature lovers and environmentalists alike as it marks Orange for Orang-utan Day. Established by the Orang-utan foundation more than a decade ago the day aims to increase awareness about the plight facing orang-utans and their rainforest habitat through a series of global events and fundraising activities, including wearing everything and anything orange.
Each year, the funds raised by Orange for Orang-utan day are devoted to a specific cause and this year the proceeds will go towards an Orang-utan Release Programme in Borneo. Such programmes are an essential element of rehabilitating and reintroducing these creatures to their natural home and maintaining the rainforest’s delicate ecosystem that will ensure not just their survival but also the survival of their fellow forest dwellers.*
For conservationists who want to make a more hands on contribution to the Orang-utan cause, gap year travel company Real Gap, offer a range of rehabilitation and volunteer projects that focus on preserving and maintaining these majestic animals. Ideal for travellers who are interested in jungle, mountain and beach exploration, hands on conservation activities or pioneering restoration and research, the projects combine intrepid travel with worthwhile volunteering.
Explorers who wish to make sure the good work continues can get involved with various research and environmental conservation activities by taking part in the Malaysia Orang-Utan and Wildlife Experience. Volunteers can help with data collection focusing on wildlife population density amongst the Orang-utans and other animals, as well as assisting in habitat restoration and teaching the local community about environmental conservation.
For those who wish to focus entirely on caring for Orang-utans, Real Gap’s Malaysia Orang-Utan Experience is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to their preservation and welfare. Travellers can work closely with Orang-utans in a Malaysian zoo, explore the depths of Borneo’s jungles, help build trails with indigenous tribesmen, assist with wildlife monitoring and see rehabilitation in action at a nearby Orang-utan sanctuary.
Travellers looking for an enriching and cultural trip may find just what they are searching for with the Borneo Experience. A mixture of adventure and cultural immersion, the programme will see travellers trekking through mountains, scuba diving in pristine waters, camping in Borneo’s deepest jungles, helping with essential environmental project work in Sabah and working with local communities to improve local education and improving sustainable energy resources.
Environmental and Orang-utan enthusiasts who would like to find out more about Real Gap’s volunteer projects can find out more by visiting the company website at http://www.realgap.co.uk/
* Information sourced from the Orang-utan foundation www.orangutan.org.uk/
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
