Conservation on a Tropical Island in Thailand

  Thailand

Koh Tao

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: 2 - 12 weeks placement throughout the year

Description: Will you help preserve this piece of paradise?
This project offers a unique opportunity for keen conservationists to live and work on one of Thailand's most stunning and famous islands - Koh Tao. Situated just off the southern cost of Thailand, Koh Tao is regarded as one of Thailand's best kept secrets boasting spectacular sites, miles of white sandy beaches, lush jungle and world class diving opportunities. Working on the island, willing helpers are needed to preserve their stunning surroundings whilst educating future generations to do the same. Volunteer on Koh Tao and you will not only have the opportunity to support a vast range of conservation activities, but you will also play a part in helping to conserve this slice of paradise for years to come.

*Project details:
The conservation project is located on the stunning tropical island of Koh Tao, the last of a chain of islands after the more well known Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan. The project is an environmental and educational program run by the Save Koh Tao Community group in cooperation with the local government to help preserve the island for future generations. The group was created over the last few years by local residents wishing to address the environmental and social problems faced by the island and who have a strong desire to preserve the local culture, coral reefs and land resources while also ensuring the long term sustainability of the island economy. The group believe that through education, conservation and careful planning, the beauty and health of the island can be preserved for future generations to enjoy.   

*Why the project needs volunteers:
The project needs volunteers to support the conservation efforts on the island and help educate the future generations on the importance of protecting the island's ecosystem. Much of the work at this project is dependent on having the necessary labour and without volunteers, the battle against irresponsible tourism may be lost to the detriment of the island's future.

Find out more about i-to-i, watch their short video here: http://video.i-to-i.com/site-videos/video.html

Highlights:
* Getting to live on, and be part of preserving, one of Thailand's most beautiful islands
* Chilling out and relaxing into the island way of life
* Learning to dive or snorkel and exploring the sea - Koh Tao is a world famous dive spot

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
You do not require any specific skills or knowledge, but you will need to be ready to take on a number of tasks that may be required of you, and to get dirty in the process! You must be prepared to get involved with hands on approach. General fitness and lots of enthusiasm will definitely enhance your experience.

Your role as a volunteer:
You will be involved in a number of activities such as environmental research and surveys, beach cleaning, tree and seed planting as well as helping educate the future generation on the island. You could also get involved in swimming activities at the weekends with the local children.

You will meet up daily with the project coordinator to discuss the assigned project, whether personal or team projects, as well as updating the conservation journal on a daily basis and keeping a weekly diary of your experience to pass on.

Cost in US$: USD 1755.00 for 2 weeks, USD 275.00 for every week thereafter

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: The project needs volunteers to support the conservation efforts on the island and help educate the future generations on the importance of protecting the island's ecosystem. Much of the work at this project is dependent on having the necessary labour and without volunteers, the battle against irresponsible tourism may be lost to the detriment of the island's future.

Age Range: 18 years old and above

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 1994