OBJECTIVES

• To inspire participants to take an active interest in the sciences, our environment and conservation
• To provide a grounding in the history and status of the natural sciences as well as the social and economic context of conservation today
• To inform participants about Darwin’s theory of evolution and its relevance to our lives today in scientific, social and business terms
• To learn key facets of leadership from the experience of Charles Darwin

SCOPE

Many have argued that no individual has had a greater impact on modern thought than Charles Darwin. His revolutionary theory of evolution by natural selection turned the world on its head.  It was in the remote Galapagos Islands that Darwin made many of the observations which triggered his thinking.  The protected status of the islands today means that we can make the same observations and learn through the same experience as Darwin.

Ecuador’s rainforest and cloud forest provide a wonderful opportunity to explore a lush, green world which is rich in species and biodiversity.  The Chocó biogeographical region runs from Panama, through Colombia and Ecuador to Peru. It encompasses the biodiversity hotspot known as the Tumbes-Chocó-Darien, along the western foothills of the Andes. The combination of the position of the area close to the Andes and the Equator has led to the highest concentration of biodiversity anywhere in the world.

The research station which is the base of the initial stage of the programme and which also houses a luxurious hotel, is situated between the rainforest and the cloud forest in a large private reserve.  It is perfectly placed to explore the eco-systems which exist from the forest floor to the tops of the tree canopy.  Many species thrive in these different environments, both those which we know about and those which remain as yet undiscovered.

The programme consists of the following:

• Led by renowned experts, leading figures in conservation bring alive both Darwin’s life and theories and the challenges of conservation today. These specialists enable participants to understand the importance of both exploring and looking after our environment and the inspiration of Darwin’s life, his theories and their impact on science and the world today.  The different areas for the programme, both the forest and the Galapagos Islands, provide the perfect environments
• The programme starts in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Here we meet with the specialists who will provide in-depth guidance through their own personal experience and through the projects which they are supporting and organising in the region
• The first main stage of the programme is based in Ecuador’s rainforest and cloud forest. Having assembled in Quito, we set out by road to the research station in the forest reserve.  We spend three days in the forest, exploring the different eco-systems in different areas, at different heights and at different times of the day.  The environment delights the most experienced nature lover and will inspire everyone. There are 400 varieties of bird, monkeys, peccaries and puma, myriad invertebrates and amphibians
• We travel back to Quito by road and then fly to the Galapagos Islands for the second stage of the programme. Here we experience first-hand the environment and animals which exerted such a profound impact on Darwin and enabled him to develop his theories.  Each of the islands that we visit has a different ecosystem which means that different species have developed to adapt to the terrain. We learn about the different animals and plants as well as the geology of the islands which is so critical to the life which continually adapts to the environment.
• We are based on a boat which provides an ideal platform from which to explore the islands. It enables our specialists to spend time with participants, discussing their particular interests and expanding on the observations and experiences gained both on the islands and in the waters around them.   Ample time is available to explore the islands and the surrounding marine life by boat, snorkelling, kayak and on foot.  Indeed, each of these methods of exploration is important in gaining a good understanding of the environment and the wildlife.

For those with limited time, who are not able to devote the 3 weeks necessary for the full Darwin programme, the Darwin & Conservation programme is a tremendous, concentrated experience, to inspire individuals with the wonders of the natural world, the possibilities of science and the criticality of looking after our world today.

Learning Approach & Key Specialists

• Learning by doing, through direct experience and under the instruction of experts in each field
• One of our key specialists for this programme is a Director of a conservation charity, with vast experience of Darwin and the challenges of conservation. Others are specialist academics and conservation project leaders who are particularly adept at illuminating the practical application of Darwin’s theories, the need for conservation, the methods and challenges involved
• The research station in the forest is at the vanguard of rainforest protection. Its scientists and projects are practical ways in which participants gain real experience of conservation in action. The science team spend their days and nights in the forest observing, measuring and tracking existing species and looking for new species to share with the world.  They make ideal tutors and guides
• Daily workbook to guide each participant on the subjects covered and the key learnings
• PhD level native Chinese interpreters who are specialists in each field of study