Turtle Conservation Program in Greece

  Greece

Zakynthos

Dates: Visit our website for upcoming start dates

Description: Volunteering and work with turtles on the beautiful Ionian island of Zakynthos in Greece. Up to 80% of Mediterranean Loggerhead turtles nest here, but they are under threat from the tourist industry. Join this GVI project and help the Sea Turtle & Wildlife Information Center to demonstrate how turtle conservation and tourism can exist in a mutually beneficial manner. As a volunteer you will work with the National Marine Park to protect a small corner of this island from over-development. You will patrol beaches, educate tourists, save injured animals, and conduct beach and forest cleans. In your spare time, enjoy the gorgeous island of Zakynthos, a haven for flowers and wildlife, with many endemic and migrating birds. It is also home to the rare Monk Seal and around 6000 species of flowers; making it a perfect, peaceful location in which to do voluntary work.

* How this program makes a difference:

The idyllic island of Zakynthos has attracted numerous package tourists and is struggling to cope with a huge summer influx of vacationers and the waste, traffic, noise, litter and pollution they bring with them. The tourist industry provides an extremely lucrative way of life for the locals, but its exploitation is to the detriment of wildlife and the countryside. 80% of the Mediterranean leatherback sea turtles come to nest on Zakynthos' beaches, and mass tourism is slowly taking over these beaches, preventing the species from nesting and therefore creating a large decline in numbers. Ecotourism is the best way to encourage locals and tourists alike to change their attitudes and habits. Promoting tourism year round, educating the local children and forcing the Greek government to face up to these important issues will help halt this rapid decline, saving not only the sea turtles but other flora and fauna as well.

Highlights:
* Watch turtles lay their eggs and babies hatch
* Gain experience combining tourism and conservation
* Work with the Marine Park and other NGO's
* See rare birds and the endangered Monk Seals
* Experiencing Greek culture first hand
* Live on a picturesque island
* Help preserve endangered turtles

Qualifications: No special training or qualifications are required as you will receive training in the field.

Cost in US$: From $1700 for 2 weeks

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998