6 Environmental Organizations For Voluntourism

Earthwatch Institute:

For those who don’t like sandy beaches, the Earthwatch Institute allows people to join research expeditions into the Arctic. Past volunteers find the experience to be rewarding, taking part in actual climate change research.

American Hiking Society:

Volunteers built and maintained many of America’s trails. The American Hiking Society organizes such volunteer trips across the country for a range of experience levels, doing everything from repairing bridges to clearing out invasive species.

Oceanic Society:

Help protect our oceans by collecting data and translating research into policy proposals. Founded in 1969, the Oceanic Society organizes volunteers in Belize and Ulithi for conservation-focused trips, aiding projects like counting crocodile hatchlings and deploying underwater cameras.

Kibbutz Lotan:

For those interested in ecological design and permaculture, Kibbutz Lotan is an Israeli community that practices sustainability and living with a low environmental impact. Participants will take part in organic gardening, recycling projects and ecological education in their two-week stay.

Reef Check:

The organization conducted its first global survey in 1997, confirming fishing and pollution were destroying our reefs. Since then they organized experienced divers to help collect data for scientific research around the world.

Enkosini Eco Experience:

Many people travel to see the “Big Five,” but on the Enkosini Eco Experience in South Africa, you will help protect lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, rhinoceroses and the rest of the South African ecosystem. You will learn a variety of survival and navigation skills in addition to carrying out fieldwork on the animals.