What is environmental conservation? Benefits, challenges, and how to get involved

Traveling the world lets you experience all its beauty firsthand—but also, sometimes, the not-so-beautiful: pollution, deforestation, and other signs of damage. This is where learning about what environmental conservation is comes in, and how crucial it is to protect our planet.

In this post, we’ll dive into the significance of environmental conservation and explore how you can take action. Whether you're passionate about reducing waste, conserving water, protecting wildlife, or promoting clean energy, there are numerous environmental projects around the world that need your help. We'll guide you on how to get involved and make a real impact. So, if you're ready to embrace sustainable living and join the fight for our planet, keep reading!

Suggested reading: 7 tips to be a more conscious traveler and 15 easy ways to reduce plastic waste while traveling.

What is environmental conservation?

So, what is environmental conservation? It’s simply the act of protecting the environment from harmful human activities, and it’s more important now than ever.

Environmental conservation focuses on preserving natural resources, like forests, wildlife, water and energy, for present and future generations. It aims to curb pollution through a multi-pronged approach involving the responsible management of resources. 

Historically, this concept gained traction during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time marked by rapid industrialization and significant environmental degradation. Early conservationists, like John Muir and Gifford Pinchot, advocated for the responsible use and management of natural resources, laying the groundwork for modern conservation efforts.

At its core, environmental conservation aims to balance human needs with the health of the environment. This involves a range of activities, including preserving natural habitats, protecting endangered species, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable resource management. It's not just about saving trees or protecting cute animals; it's about maintaining the complex web of life that supports all living things, including humans.

The importance of environmental conservation

The scope of environmental conservation is broad and multifaceted. It includes efforts to combat climate change, manage natural resources sustainably, and reduce human impact on ecosystems. It also involves advocacy and education to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Protecting biodiversity

Our planet thrums with an incredible diversity of life, each with a role to play in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. When habitats are destroyed, or pollution goes unchecked, it throws a wrench in the works, driving many plants and animals toward extinction. This loss of biodiversity threatens food security, access to clean water, and the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

A report by over 11,000 scientists warned of the "untold suffering" to come if we fail to address the current climate crisis. Scientists warn this will lead to collapsed ecosystems, mass extinction of wildlife, food scarcity and global displacement of people.

Environmental conservation seeks to counteract these negative effects by protecting habitats through sustainable practices which help to preserve biodiversity. 

Combating climate change

Our actions—particularly the burning of fossil fuels and rampant deforestation—wreak havoc on our climate. Greenhouse gas emissions are a major contributor to this environmental challenge, impacting air quality and contributing to global warming.

Environmental conservation, especially through reforestation, renewable energy use, and responsible land management, aims to mitigate the negative effects of human activity on the environment. It all ties back to taking proactive measures to heal the environment, so it can heal us in return. 

Ensuring clean water and air

Environmental conservation plays a huge role in the quest for keeping our water and air clean. Wetlands, forests, and other natural areas act as nature’s filtration systems.

Wetlands, for example, absorb pollutants from water, making it cleaner by the time it reaches our taps. Forests do something similar for the air. Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, releasing fresh oxygen for us to breathe. This natural filtration is crucial for maintaining the quality of our water and air, which directly impacts our health and well-being.

Additionally, conserved areas help regulate water cycles, reduce soil erosion, and prevent floods, all of which contribute to stable and clean water supplies.

Sustaining agriculture and food security

Healthy soils are the foundation of productive farming. Conservation practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage help maintain soil health by preventing erosion, improving fertility, and increasing resilience to droughts.

Protecting natural habitats also supports the pollinators, like bees, butterflies, and bats, which are critical for the pollination of many crops. Without these pollinators, our food supply would be at risk.

Moreover, by conserving water through sustainable practices and protecting wetlands, we ensure that agriculture has a reliable source of clean water. This, in turn, helps maintain crop yields and food production. 

Suggested reading: Organic gardening: a practical guide to a greener home

Helping rural communities

Thriving natural ecosystems provide so much for rural communities—clean water, fertile land, and raw materials. When we don’t protect these valuable resources, these communities bear the brunt.  Deforestation and environmental damage disproportionately impact these communities. 

Environmental conservation ensures the well-being and sustainable livelihoods of local people by advocating for the ethical use and management of land. It recognizes the connection between a healthy environment and the well-being of local communities. 

Keep reading: Discovering off the grid communities: What you need to know and How to join them.

Key areas of environmental conservation

Environmental conservation encompasses diverse fields. Each focuses on protecting different parts of the natural world, working to find solutions to the numerous environmental challenges we face today.

Wildlife conservation

Think of this as safeguarding our planet's remarkable diversity of animals. From tigers to turtles, preserving habitats, combating poaching and illegal wildlife trade, and promoting sustainable living alongside wildlife—these all play crucial roles in wildlife conservation.

It focuses on protecting endangered species and their habitats, promoting biodiversity, and minimizing human-wildlife conflict.

But wildlife conservationists are fighting an uphill battle against numerous threats, and their success hinges on global cooperation and proactive measures to protect endangered species and their delicate habitats. By supporting organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation and advocating for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats, we can help make a difference.

Read these Tips for wildlife watching and how to do it ethically and check 4 animal mistreatment experiences to avoid on your trips.

Forest conservation

Forests—they're often called the Earth’s lungs for a reason. They are not just beautiful, they’re essential. These vibrant ecosystems are vital in regulating our climate, purifying our air and water, and providing us with wood and countless other resources.

Deforestation, driven by factors like agriculture, logging and infrastructure, continues to pose a threat. 

Forest conservation actively addresses this challenge by advocating for sustainable forestry practices, promoting reforestation, and combating illegal logging to protect this important natural resource. This includes efforts to prevent deforestation, manage forests sustainably, and restore degraded forest landscapes.

Marine conservation

Covering the vast majority of our planet, oceans are teeming with an astounding variety of life. They play a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate, absorbing carbon dioxide, and supporting a vast web of marine life. Yet, they face numerous threats, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

By establishing protected marine areas, advocating for sustainable fishing methods, and cleaning up plastic waste already choking our oceans, marine conservation aims to conserve these ecosystems. 

Water conservation

Every drop counts, right? From showering to farming, from brushing our teeth to producing the clothes we wear, our daily lives depend on water. However, freshwater resources are under increasing pressure from overuse, pollution, and climate change, making water conservation more crucial than ever.

Water conservation encourages us to use this precious resource wisely. It starts with embracing practices like fixing leaks promptly, installing water-efficient appliances, and adjusting irrigation methods in agriculture. Reducing water waste lessens the strain on freshwater resources and is especially important in regions grappling with water scarcity.

Energy conservation

By reducing energy consumption and promoting efficient use, environmental conservation efforts aim to mitigate the impacts associated with energy production and consumption.

This includes advocating for policies that encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

Additionally, conservation efforts involve promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices in both residential and commercial sectors. By prioritizing energy conservation, environmental conservation aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, lessen dependence on finite fossil fuels, and minimize environmental degradation associated with energy extraction and production. This approach not only contributes to a more sustainable energy future but also supports broader conservation goals by reducing overall environmental footprint and preserving natural resources for future generations.

How to get involved with environmental conservation

Ready to make a difference for our planet but not sure where to start? There are lots of ways you can get involved, no matter your interest. From making sustainable choices in your daily life to supporting conservation organizations, every action counts in protecting our natural heritage.

Volunteering with Worldpackers

Conscious travelers have a sense of responsibility for the planet, and with Worldpackers, you can combine your travel lust with a passion for conservation by volunteering on environmental projects around the globe. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to environmental protection while immersing yourself in different cultures.

Looking to lend a hand with reforestation efforts in Costa Rica, maybe marine conservation in Thailand or wildlife conservation in Africa? Worldpackers lets you connect with hosts from all over. This hands-on experience deepens your connection with local communities and provides invaluable skills—a major resume booster, and you’ll forge incredible memories, too.

Besides the positive impact on our planet, environmental volunteering provides an opportunity to meet people who have similar interests and values than you. Volunteering together for a cause can also foster a sense of community and belonging, which is often missing these days.

Moreover, spending time outdoors, breathing fresh air, and engaging in physical activities such as hiking, gardening, or doing beach cleanups can do wonders for your mental health.

In exchange for your help, you'll get free accommodation on site, and -depending on the agreement- meals can be included, as well as other perks like free activities to join.

In the Worldpackers' platform you will find plenty of opportunities to volunteer in environmental conservation projects around the world. 

These are a few of the many projects you could join:

• Help with a honeybee ecotourism operation in Maui, Hawaii.
• Assist in the research and study of animals, insects and plants in the jungle of Peru.
• Help and learn in an eco-village in the south of Italy.
• Join an organic family-run farm in the mountains of central Portugal.
• Help organizing environmental related activities in a non-profit school in India.

Environmental project in Costa Rica

Connect and give back while exploring Costa Rica's epic beaches and sunsets at Finca Ganadito.

This specific project located in the famous Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica offers a service learning experience steeped in sustainability.

You'll engage in eco-farming, ecosystem protection, and community enrichment. Savor vegan farm-to-table meals, and as you embrace eco-conscious living, discover personal growth and make bonds with like-minded souls. 

Turtle conservation (July to December only), organic farming, producing coconut oil and soap and creating organic fertilizers are some of the activities involved. Plus, you'll benefit from yoga and Spanish lessons during your stay.

Volunteers who have had this experience shared this kind of words about it:

"My experience with the eco village was incredibly valuable and rewarding. Rob and Rebe were professional, engaging & consistent hosts. There was a ton of variety & balance throughout our tasks & everything was extremely organized. The location was breathtaking. Waking up to the sounds of monkeys & greetings by colorful macaws made each day made each day feel like a dream. Rebe prepared each farm to table meal with her soul. Her yoga classes truly resonated with me as well. Rob is kind & genuinely cares about his work. His Spanish classes were also super fun and helpful. I would 100% return." Michael, USA.

"I felt at home at the eco village within a week. The hosts, Rob and Rebe cultivate a welcoming, family-like environment. We actually worked less hours than 5 per day, and the tasks were different every day so had ample free time to go to the beach, read, do yoga, etc! It often didn't feel like actual work because we got to learn so much about plants and animals! The living space is also super clean (and they're proud of it) which you might not think but makes a huge difference in comfort in the jungle. I loved learning new vegetarian recipes with Rebe and always felt full from the food!" Dona, Canada.

Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified.