CONSERVATION STORIES
Stewarding Natural
&
Cultural Travel Assets Worldwide
2023 Travel Conservation Auction Winners!
The 2023 Travel Conservation Auction has been an incredible success, thanks to the unwavering support of over 35 generous donors who contributed their adventure travel trips, gear, and community connections to support our mission. Thanks to their support, we met our goal of $60,000, double what was raised in 2022. This remarkable achievement not only demonstrates the power of community and collaboration but also signifies the industry's commitment to protecting wild places.
We are immensely grateful and extend our heartfelt thanks to donors, bidders, and other partners who have enabled the ATCF to continue helping protect and preserve our world for future generations. The support demonstrated will have a lasting impact, enhancing project initiatives that protect the adventure travel communities we know and love.
ADVENTURE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
7-Day Upper Sacred Valley & Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu, PERU
Donated by Mountain Lodges of Peru
Won by Tara C.
5-Day Sacred Valley & Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu, PERU
Donated by Mountain Lodges of Peru
Won by Adam B.
4-Nights at Jamtara Wilderness Camp, INDIA
Donated by Encounters Asia
Won by Heather M.
5-Day Ancient Capitals Walking Tour in Kansai, JAPAN
Donated by Oku Japan
Won by Christina T.
14-Day Snow Leopard Expedition Led by Ismail Shariff, INDIA
Donated by Banjara Experiences
Won by Jan L.
6-Day Galapagos Wildlife Cruise, ECUADOR
Donated by Enchanted Expeditions
Won by Lan P.
5-Night Local Culinary Cooking Experience, DOMINICA
Donated by Discover Dominica
Won by Hannah M.
5-Day Rafting Trip, IDAHO
Donated by OARS
Won by Katie F.
2-Nights at Hotel Aguas Claras, COSTA RICA
Donated by Cayuga Collection
Won by Gordon S.
3-Night Maldives Marine Life Guided Tour, MALDIVES
Donated by Secret Paradise Maldives
Won by Isaac D.
5-Day Hiking & Camping Adventure for Two: Zion & Bryce, USA
Donated by REI Adventures
Won by Judy C.
5-Day W Trek Adventure in Torres del Paine, CHILE
Donated by Chile Nativo
Won by Joey P.
9-Day Camino de Santiago Tour, SPAIN
Donated by Wilderness Travel
Won by Hasissam K.
13-Day Patagonia Volunteer Trip, CHILE
Donated by ConservationVIP
Won by Thom B.
9-Day Whales & Wild Isles Expedition Cruise for 2 people, CANADA
Donated by Maple Leaf Adventures
Won by Heather M.
3 Nights at Hacienda El Porvenir, ECUADOR
Donated by Tierra del Volcan
Won by Christina T.
11-Day Wild Borneo Adventure, MALAYSIA
Donated by Sticky Rice Travel
Won by Lan P.
8-Day Bike & Boat Dalmatian Coast Tour for 2, CROATIA
Donated by Experience Plus! Bicycle Tours
Won by Xima
6-Day Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail Adventure, NEW ZEALAND
Donated by Adventure South NZ
Won by Deb C.
4-Day Rancho Cacachilas Adventure Camp, BCS, MEXICO
Donated by Rancho Cachilas
Won by Gina B.
7-Day Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting Tour for 2, USA
Donated by Mountain Travel Sobek
Won by Katie F.
3-Days Hotel Las Torres All Inclusive Experience, CHILE
Donated by Las Torres Patagonia
Won by Mary N.
Adventure Travel Gear
MiiR Coffee Bundle & Wine Bundle
Donated by MiiR
Won by Jon W.
GRAYL® Camp Cook Kit
Donated by GRAYL
Won by Jane B.
2 Helinox Sunset Chairs & 1 Helinox Table One Hard Top
Donated by Helinox
Won by Claudia L.
REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel - 34"
Donated by REI Co-op
Won by Nicolas C.
$250 Toad & Co Gift Card
Donated by Toad & Co
Won by Charles A.
2 prAna Verde Yoga Mats
Donated by prAna
Won by Emily L.
GRAYL® HipPack Go Kit
Donated by GRAYL
Won by Jon W.
Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 29" Luggage in Artic Seagreen
Donated by Eagle Creek
Won by Mohit G.
Peak Design 35L Travel Duffle, set of Packing Cubes, & Wash Pouch
Donated by Peak Design
Won by Luis V.
$600 Oboz Gift Card
Donated by Oboz Footwear
Won by on Jon B.
REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel + Packing Cube Set
Donated by REI
Won by Norie Q.
Adventure Travel Connections
5-Hours with ATCF Board of Directors
Donated by ATCF BOD
Won by Kirsten D.
5-Hours of Travel Marketing Consulting
Donated by AirTour.io
Won by Robin F.
Ticket to 2024 Adventure Travel World Summit + Carbon Removal
Donated by Adventure Travel Trade Association and Tomorrow’s Air
Won by Raza
AUCTION DONORS
We can’t thank our donors enough for their generosity and commitment to protecting our wild places. The ATCF was born to bring the travel and outdoor industry together to make a meaningful impact on conservation and the brands you see above are helping lead the way. From donating $10,000+ trips to some of the best travel gear in the world. These are really special brands and all we can ask is next time you’re looking for a trip or a new piece of gear that you keep them in mind.
Auction Committee: Soraya Shattuck, Hannah Lambert, Norie Quintos, Amy Brown, and Jonathan Burnham
Our auction committee did an incredible job this year, they helped double last year’s auction goal. From donor outreach to setting up the auction platforms to social media, this team put in hundreds of volunteer hours to make this auction a success. A lot goes on behind the scenes and we couldn’t have done it without these conservation rockstars!
If you had any part in our 2023 auction, from donating to bidding or just sharing on social media we are so grateful for your support.
We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings!
March Newsletter
After a successful and inspiring board retreat in December, in which we came away with priorities for 2023, we’ve had our heads down working on an implementation plan. The word for the year is Amplify. Amplify funding, impact, membership, grantees, and network.
Update from the Executive Director
After a successful and inspiring board retreat in December, in which we came away with priorities for 2023, we’ve had our heads down working on an implementation plan. The word for the year is Amplify. Amplify funding, impact, membership, grantees, and network.
It’s important to note that in 2020 and 2021, during the acute phase of the pandemic when travel came to a virtual stop, the ATCF continued to support critical communities progressing their conservation efforts. The need was great and the organization felt a responsibility to help where it could. In 2021, we also reached the milestone of having distributed $500,000 to 33 projects in 27 countries around the world. In 2022 we worked on rebuilding the organization, which had been hard-hit by the pandemic along with the travel industry, and re-engaging our communities.
For 2023, our two primary focus areas are:
Reconvene our community - bring our membership back together, bring in new partner businesses from the travel and outdoor supply chain, and convene our grantees. Work has begun on several fronts.
Evolve our grant program - bring in stronger elements of communities who are supporting climate mitigation, consider our geographic reach of projects that qualify for funding, and integrate the ability for individuals to earmark additional funds to projects that align with their priorities. A new and energized Grants Committee is hard at work. Look out for the announcement of our 2023 grant program by May.
Nominations open on May 7th for ATCF members to put forth a project for funding consideration. Keep an eye out for more information on the nominations process coming soon!
There is lots more news to come including our annual Travel Conservation Auction, planned for the fall.
Please reach out to me with any questions, comments, or ideas. Contact us
Welcome to Three New Board Members
We are thrilled to welcome three new members to the ATCF Board of Directors. Welcome, Nicole Abbott, vice president of Wilderness Travel, Amit Sankhala, owner of Encounters Asia, and Jonathan Burnham, ATCF’s digital director! These remarkable individuals will add insight and expertise to ATCF’s strategic direction. Learn more about ATCF’s new board members here.
Hydro Flask Joins ATCF at the Trailblazer Level
We are thrilled to announce the addition of Hydro Flask as ATCF’s newest Adventure Trailblazer ($10,000 Level). Hydro Flask joins other like-minded businesses in supporting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Hydro Flask is well known for its reusable, high-quality water bottles and is committed to reducing the use of single-use plastics. The company’s products are a perfect fit for adventure travelers who are passionate about sustainability and conservation.
"ATCF’s mission aligns with Hydro Flask’s commitment to responsible consumption. Not just the bottle, but the way people explore and engage with the outdoors," said Jeffery Walter, Hydro Flask's corporate social responsibility (CSR) specialist. "Our products are designed for a world of adventures, and it is essential for organizations like ATCF to equip travelers and explores with the knowledge and tools to be stewards for the planet."
Hydro Flask has also teamed up with the ATCF on an exciting partnership that will support a local project and community. More details coming soon.
Barbara Banks Vision Fund (BBVF) Raises $80,000
We are pleased to announce that in three months, the Barbara Banks Vision Fund raised more than $80,000 to support the work of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund. The fund was set up by Charles Altekruse, with Benjamin and Jeremy Banks-Altekruse, to honor the life of wife and mother Barbara Banks, a pillar of the adventure travel community whose untimely death of cancer in May 2020, came as a shock to all who knew and loved her.
New & Returning Members
Mountain Travel Sobek is known as the pioneer of adventure travel and has been offering immersive travel experiences for over 53 years. Their worldwide network of guides and experts allows them to offer tours on all seven contents!
Conservation Conversation With Explorer X
Michael Bennett, Ed.D, is the co-founder of Explorer X, a Seattle-based travel design company launched in 2017 by him and fellow travel industry veteran Jake Haupert. It crafts unforgettable and impactful travel experiences for its clients. The company’s mission is to support clients in both traveling better and living better. Bennet puts it this way, “We're sort of the love-child of Anthony Bourdain, the irreverent yet savvy traveler, and Joseph Campbell, the wise and sage-like teacher.”
Calendar
Spring 2023
April 4
ATCF Happy Hour in Berkeley, CA
May 7
Grant nominations open for ATCF members. (funding consideration)
May 9-11
AdventureELEVATE held in Portland, Maine
Fall 2024
September 11-14
Adventure Travel World Summit held in Hokkaido, Japan
Thanks so much for reading our March newsletter and if you have any questions about the auction please feel free to contact me.
Cheers,
September News
See what the ATCF has been up to during the COVID pandemic and our conservation priorities for 2023 and beyond.
In This Issue:
See you in Lugano
Introducing New and Returning Members
JourneyWoman and Wanderful Raise Funds for ATCF
Conservation Conversation with Experience Plus! Bicycle Tours
Convening Communities Coming Soon
What We’re Reading, Listening To, Watching, and Talking About
See You In Lugano
See what the ATCF has been up to during the COVID pandemic and our conservation priorities for 2023 and beyond. We will also have a special breakfast speaker, Georg Schwede from Campaign for Nature, who will talk about 30x30 and tourism's role in the most significant global collective conservation push in the planet's history. Not to be missed!
Welcome New Members
Adventure Leaders
WeTravel
Adventure Trailblazer
Freely
JourneyWoman
Email soraya@atconservationfund.org to renew your membership or become a member.
Conservation Conversation With Experience Plus! Bicycle Tours
Has Travel Been Good for You?
Here’s How to Return the Favor by Norie Quintos, ATCF Board Member.
Convening Communities - Coming Soon
As we prepare for a new grant funding cycle in 2023, we also are introducing a major new initiative to connect not only our grantees to each other but to our members and partners in the travel and travel gear industries. The goal is to provide a platform and opportunities for the various communities that make up the ATCF family to connect, share, and find solutions.
What We’re Reading, Listening To, Watching, and Talking About
See what the ATCF Board Members have been thinking about.
August News
See what’s happening this month!
Record-Breaking Auction!
The 2022 Travel Conservation Auction was a huge success! Thank you to all our donors and bidders - we couldn’t have done this without you! And an extra big thank you to Hannah Lambert and Jonathan Burnham for the support in getting this auction to be our most successful yet!
ATCF Makes Headlines
Hear what Adventure Travel News has to say about ATCF’s most recent milestone.
Conservation Conversation With Journalist Stephanie Pearson
Hear what Stephanie Pearson, contributing editor to Outside Magazine, author of the recent National Geographic book 100 Great American Parks, and ATCF member has to say about travel today.
Travel Conservation Auction Winners
Check out the full list of the 2022 Travel Conservation Auction winners.
Support ATCF When You Shop on Amazon
Give .05% of your Amazon purchase back to the ATCF with AmazonSmile.
Calendar
Fall 2022
October 3-6
Adventure Travel World Summit in Lugano, Switzerland
ATCF will host its annual members’ breakfast on Wednesday, October 5, from 7 to 9 a.m.
Thanks so much for reading our August newsletter and if you have any questions about the auction please feel free to contact me.
Cheers,
ATCF Makes Headlines
See what Adventure Travel News has to say about the ATCF and its most recent milestone.
Adventure Travel News, the biweekly publication of the ATTA, recently ran a feature on the ATCF, with the headline “Adventure Travel Conservation Fund Quietly Achieved a Milestone in the Height of the Pandemic.” The article noted that despite the difficulties of the pandemic, the ATCF crossed the half-million-dollar mark in grants awarded—enabled by members—to 33 nature and cultural preservation projects around the world. “The ATCF completed two full grant cycles in response to the needs over the past two years. It was through this commitment … amid the pandemic challenges that $500,000 dollars were raised and granted in less than five years.”
The piece also quoted executive director Soraya Shattuck: “ATCF is a visible example of the adventure travel industry coming together to support the wild and wonderful, but imperiled, destinations our businesses rely on.” It noted that in the past two years, ATCF funded many meaningful projects such as the protection of threatened species and Indigenous communities in Guyana, the last remaining elephants in Cambodia, humpback whales in Mexico, and wildfire recovery in Australia.
“Many members stayed committed to the ATCF through financial hardship because they know our mission is more important than ever.”
Quoting Casey Hanisko (ATTA president), Shannon Stowell (ATTA’s CEO), Steve Barker (ATCF chair and co-founder of Eagle Creek), Norie Quintos (ATCF board member and contributing editor at Nat Geo), Paul Sarfati (ATCF member and founder of Baboo Travel, and JB Haab (board member of ATCF grant recipient Friends of Cochamo), the in-depth article delved into how the organization came to be, how it works, the types of projects it funds, its plans for the future, and how you can help.
Read the full article here.
Support ATCF When You Shop on Amazon
Support the ATCF when you shop on Amazon.
If you shop on Amazon, did you know you could support the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund at the same time, at no cost to you?
AmazonSmile is available at smile.amazon.com on your web browser and can be activated in the Amazon Shopping app for iOS and Android phones. When you shop with AmazonSmile, you’ll find the exact same prices, selection, and shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added benefit that AmazonSmile will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases to ATCF.
On your web browser, you can add a bookmark to smile.amazon.com to make it easier to return and shop.
To learn more, visit smile.amazon.com/charitylists or tap Charity Lists on the "Programs & Features" menu in the Amazon Shopping app on your mobile phone. Search for and choose: Adventure Travel Conservation Fund.
May News
In this issue:
New membership categories (lowered pricing for travel industry & media)
Welcome new & renewing members!
Project update from 2020 grantee Friends of Cochamo
Royal Robbins raises $7,000 for ATCF
Three questions for Adventure Trailblazer Toad&Co
And more
In this issue:
New membership categories (lowered pricing for travel industry & media)
And more
New Membership Categories & Reduced Pandemic Pricing
In response to member feedback and the challenges the travel industry is still undergoing, the ATCF Board recently approved changes to the membership structure and dues. The membership levels are more closely aligned to those of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) to avoid confusion. In addition, annual dues have been lowered for travel industry members and media in 2022, considering the pandemic’s continued consequences. “The pandemic has only emphasized the importance of our mission to preserve and protect the planet,” says Steve Barker, chair of the ATCF board. “At the same time, many travel companies are still recovering financially. Our revised strategy lowers the barriers to membership, expands the tent, diversifies funding streams, and builds community.” Also new, is a membership level for individuals.
Join us! Or re-join! Contact Soraya or any of the board members.
Annual Membership Dues Structure
Adventure Leaders - $25,000
Adventure Trailblazers - $10,000
Adventure Stewards - $5,000
ATCF Member (travel industry) - $300 per $1M in sales, up to $5,000 *COVID special pricing
ATCF Member (gear/retail industry) - $500 per $1M in sales up to $5,000
DMO/Tourism Boards - $1,000 flat fee
ATCF Media Member - $100 (with revenue <$1M)
Nonprofits and Foundations - reciprocal
ATCF Community Member - $100 (for individuals: non-voting, non-nominating member)
Welcome New & Renewing Members!
Adventure Trailblazer
Toad&Co, Pandion Consulting, Travel Babbo, Alaska Wildland Adventures, Wild Places, Greenspot Travel, Hi Travel Tales, Stephanie Pearson Media, Bike Odyssey Cycle Tours, Encounters Asia, Law Office of Chun T Wright, Angama Mara, Mountain Lodges Peru, Conservation Alliance, Grayl, Todos Santos Eco Adventures, Trekking Hellas, Wilderness Travel, Norie Quintos Media, & Cynthia Dunbar.
Email soraya@atconservationfund.org to renew your membership or become a member.
Auction Update
Planning for ATCF’s 2022 online summer auction, our biggest fundraiser of the year, is underway. The money raised goes to support ATCF programs and initiatives, including small, high-impact grants that protect a diverse and unique set of the natural and cultural resources of our world. To date, the ATCF—supported by you—has awarded more than half a million dollars to 33 community conservation projects in 27 adventure destinations around the world!
The online auction takes place in June (dates to be determined), and will be hosted on the ATCF website, with high-value items concurrently hosted on Charity Buzz, with its wider audience reach.
We are still taking donations. To learn more about why you should donate an item to our June auction, read here. Thank you to those who have already donated items and trips, including Grayl, Mountain Lodges of Peru, and Todos Santos Eco Adventures.
Project Update
ATCF Grant Funds Trail Maintenance, Provides Work to Unemployed Horse Packers, and Generates Further Funding.
3 Questions for Toad&Co.’s Gordon Seabury
“We believe that if we all work together to make conscious choices, it means a brighter, more joyful future for all of us.”
Royal Robbins Raises $7,000 for ATCF in 2021
Last year, at the height of the pandemic, outdoor clothing company (and ATCF member) Royal Robbins donated a percentage of the proceeds from select products to the ATCF to fund its conservation efforts. The fundraiser raised over $7,000. Thank you, Royal Robbins!
This year we’re making a big push to find more passionate volunteers. Join an experience team of travel leaders to make a major difference in conservation.
Calendar
Spring
May 3 to 5
Adventure Elevate - Eugene, Oregon
ATCF is a supporting partner of Adventure Elevate. Do you want to meet to talk about joining as a leader in conservation? Reach out to Soraya Shattuck to schedule some time to talk!
Summer
ATCF Auction - Virtual, join from anywhere
Donate an item to the auction, spread the word, and bid at ATCF’s largest annual fundraiser.
June 9 to 11
Summer Outdoor Retailer Show - Denver, Colorado
ATCF members will be in attendance. Reach out to Soraya Shattuck to connect.
Fall
October 3 to 6
Adventure Travel World Summit - Lugano, Switzerland
ATCF will host its annual breakfast for members and potential members.
Thanks so much for reading our May newsletter and if you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
Cheers,
Coming up in 2022!
IN THIS ISSUE:
Big plans for 2022 and beyond!
MiiR renews commitment as Adventure Leader
New virtual speaker series
Auction update, calendar, and more
Three questions for new member Baboo
In This Issue:
MIIR RENEWS SUPPORT AS ADVENTURE LEADER
Seattle-based outdoor product company MiiR has renewed its longtime support of ATCF, coming in as an Adventure Leader for 2022. ATCF Adventure Leaders commit to a minimum of $25,000 annually. MiiR joined in 2019 as an Adventure Leader and additionally has donated products for ATCF member and donation campaigns. Moreover, it donated $9,000 to boost grants to three 2021 projects. The company partners with some of the most respected nonprofits in the world to create sustainable projects which support clean water, a healthy environment, and strong communities across the globe. “We are thrilled to have MiiR as an ongoing partner. Our missions of empowering people and protecting places for a better future are aligned,” says Soraya Shattuck, ATCF’s Executive Director. “MiiR represents the best of our community.”
MiiR, creates timeless, innovative and responsibly designed products, primarily in the insulated drinkware category, and each year, invests a portion of top-line revenue into organizations whose work uplifts both people and planet. To date, MiiR has given over 2.7 million dollars to 100+ non-profit organizations in 26 different countries. “We believe every decision you make has an impact,” says Tiffany Ong, SVP of Impact and People. “Preserving the cultures, places and ecosystems which help our global community thrive is core to who we are as a company.”
Step up to become an ATCF Adventure Leader! Contact Soraya or any of the members of the board.
ATCF to Launch a Virtual Speaker Series
Our community is a unique one, consisting of companies, organizations, and media in the adventure travel and outdoor gear space, as well as local nonprofits and community organizations, all committed to the belief that responsible travel can have a positive impact on people, places, and planet. We are launching an exclusive speaker series aimed at gathering and growing this impactful community. The inaugural livestream, being planned for TK, will introduce you to past and current project grantees and the insights we can learn from their experiences. Future gatherings will focus on topics relevant to the community.
We are looking for a volunteer willing and able to lead this important initiative.
Items and Sponsors Needed for Annual Auction
Items and Sponsors Needed for Annual Auction
ATCF's annual auction raises critical funds to enable its work. Please consider becoming a sponsor or donating an item.
We are soliciting a range of items like trip packages, hotel accommodations, airline tickets, adventure travel tours, etc. See examples from our 2019 auction.
So why should you be involved in the ATCF auction?
Visibility through ATCF’s auction emails and messages to our entire database
If it is a high-value item then we may feature it on CharityBuzz.com, which caters to high-end travelers and environmentally conscious bidders. Charitybuzz has a network of 60,000+ active bidders and their website receives 600,000+ unique views per month
Exposure through The Adventure Travel Association’s newsletters and social communications to a network of over 23,000 travelers worldwide
Exposure in an Adventure Travel Prosper piece that goes out to another 5,000 people and 1,300 organizations.
Spotlight for your company in a rotation of announcements on our social media sites
Logo posted on ATCF’s website as a donor during the auction;
Allows you to align with ATCF, which is known worldwide for our important work in conserving travel destinations
All donations from U.S. based companies are tax-deductible
To donate, simply complete this form (5 minutes) as soon as possible and we will follow up with you to finalize details. Questions? Ask Soraya.
Member Spotlight: 3 Questions for Baboo's Paul Sarfati
In the midst of the pandemic, Paul Sarfati, founder of Bamba Travel, decided to start a new travel company, Baboo, an innovative platform that connects travelers directly with local in-destination experts to build custom itineraries all over the world, giving travelers on-the-ground expertise at reasonable prices. Baboo provides centralized assurance and assistance. Not only that, but the company compensates for all the CO2 emissions of the entire trip (including flights), and donates a percentage of its sales to conservation causes, including the ATCF. We had three questions for Paul, who is based in Mexico City.
The majority of travel companies, including yours, were hit hard by the pandemic, yet you launched a new company. Why? Everything stopped, and I actually had time to breathe, to relax, to revive, to become better, and to value what I have. I was inspired to start a business that would be innovative and that could work great with the "new" normal; I wanted it to be a force for good to support our planet. It's our responsibility as business owners and entrepreneurs to do something about it, and not depend entirely on the world’s governments, which in most cases are not doing enough. To that end, Baboo is working towards becoming a B-Corporation and all that entails. We are also working to make sure that the carbon footprint our trips produce is not only compensated, but overcompensated, so that when clients travel with Baboo, they are already helping the planet.
You made a bold commitment to donate one percent of your company’s sales to ATCF. Why? The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund has the same values as Baboo and firmly believes in the power of travel to protect and conserve the environment. I have seen the work that the ATCF has done in the past with many different projects, and I believe that donating one percent of our sales to ATCF is a great way to help. I think all travel companies should commit part of their profits to give back to the planet, and the ATCF is one to seriously consider. We need to be the change we want to see in the world.
Tell us about a trip that changed you or your thinking. When I was 18 years old, I traveled around the world for a year. I experienced things I had never done before and I met people who challenged my many pre-structured ways of thinking. I did a 10-day Vipassana meditation program; took a Thai massage course; got lost in the Kumbh Mela—the largest spiritual festival in India—for 24 hours without money, food, or water; got certified in scuba diving; among many other things. These experiences taught me to enjoy life, but also to see first-hand the inequality that exist on our planet, thus opening me to learning and exploring more. That yearlong trip led me to dedicate my life to traveling, and to find ways to help people and the planet.
ATCF Joins 1% For The Planet Network
Did you know that the ATCF is an accredited and certified nonprofit partner of the 1% For The Planet network? That means that donations to ATCF, including membership dues, by individual and business members of the network count toward their annual commitment.
Recognizing that the climate crisis cannot be solved without recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental issues, 1% for the Planet was founded to prevent greenwashing, certify reputable giving, and provide accountability. The 1% for the Planet certification is given to businesses and individuals that meet its high-bar commitment—donate at least one percent of annual sales or salary to environmental causes.
But you don’t have to be a member of 1% For The Planet to make the same commitment. Read about Paul Sarfati of Baboo in “Member Spotlight,” below. Paul has made the bold pledge to donate one percent or more of the company’s annual profits to the ATCF.
Make your commitment to the ATCF today. Join as a member, or make a one-time or monthly donation. For more information, contact Soraya or speak to any of the members of the board.
Thank You to Retiring Board Members Josie Norris and Praveen Moman
After serving two terms, for a total of five years each, Josie Norris of the Conservation Alliance and Praveen Moman of Volcanoes Safaris are exiting the ATCF board. “Both Josie and Praveen have gone above and beyond, these last five years, and I cannot thank them enough,” says Soraya Shattuck, ATCF Executive Director. “Our organization is a lean one, and board members do a lot of the heavy lifting. Josie and Praveen have each brought unique strengths during the ATCF’s formative years.”
As grants director for the Conservation Alliance, a group of like-mind companies that disburses its collective annual membership dues to grassroots environmental organizations, Josie was instrumental in formalizing ATCF’s grant program, where she chaired the Grant’s Subcommittee.
The founder and CEO of Volcanoes Safaris, Praveen has been at the forefront of reviving tourism in Uganda and Rwanda. Having weathered many storms, Praveen's insightful guidance during the foundational years of the ATCF has been key to its success.
While they will be missed on the Board, Josie and Praveen don’t get off scot-free. As board alumni, they join the ATCF advisory committee and will continue to be called on to provide advice and support.
Mark Your Calendars!
SPRING
May 3 to 5, 2022
Adventure Elevate
Eugene, Oregon
ATCF representatives will attend; look for us.
SUMMER
Dates TBD
ATCF Auction
Virtual, join from anywhere
Auction items currently being solicited.
June 9 to 11, 2022
Summer Outdoor Retailer Show
Denver, Colorado
ATCF will host an afternoon event on June 9 for OR attendees, gear folks, and friends in the Denver area.
FALL
October 3 to 6, 2022
Adventure Travel World Summit
Lugano, Switzerland
ATCF will host a breakfast.
LUGANO SWITZERLAND; PHOTO: MAKSYM HARBAR/UNSPLASH
ATCF Loves Its Volunteers!
ATCF runs a lean administration, and therefore volunteers play an integral role in our work. In addition to our dedicated and active board members, who fundraise and run committees and guide operations, we have several people working hard behind the scenes. Jonathan Burnham helps guide our digital marketing. Jerry Sealy worked to get our new newsletter out. Amy Brown is working with ATCF to conduct a needs assessment (while completing her PhD).
Learn more about volunteering and join us!
2020 Grant Winners - 6 Projects Funded
6 NEW conservation initiatives in Chile, Cambodia, Botswana, Palestine, and Bolivia. Our 6th grant winner, in Guyana, was funded by travelers from all around the world! During the month of December, we were able to raise over $10,000 in donations from individuals who care about conservation and the protection of our travel destinations.
2020 was a rough year for the entire planet but we still made an impressive leap forward in conservation by funding 6 NEW conservation initiatives in Chile, Cambodia, Botswana, Palestine and Bolivia.
Our 6th grant winner, in Guyana, was funded by travelers from all around the world! During the month of December, we were able to raise over $10,000 in donations from individuals who care about conservation and the protection of our travel destinations.
Support for the Last Remaining Elephants, Cambodia
Continuing critical care for Cambodia's last remaining captive and wild elephants, restoring their forest habitat, and supporting the indigenous Bunong community during the Covid 19 Pandemic, enabling the project to continue to attract adventurous eco-tourists both.
From Horse Guides to Conservation Stewards, Chile
Funding of this project will allow out of work arrieros (horse guides) affected by diminished tourism, to earn income while working for a much needed stewardship infrastructure project. This project will refurbish critical sensitive sections of the trail to Cochamó and provide wages to an invaluable workforce which keeps Cochamó afloat.
The Elephant Express Conservation Bus, Botswana
The Elephant Express buses educate and promote human-wildlife coexistence by safely transporting vulnerable members of the community through an elephant corridor along which elephants move between key wildlife tourism areas.
Homestay Family Training Program, Palestine
The purpose of the project is to conduct COVID-specific capacity-building training so that local communities can again welcome tourists and thereby continue to raise awareness of the need to protect the Palestinian environment, heritage, and unique communities.
Strengthening Resilience in Chalalán Ecolodge, Bolivia
Recovering tourism after the pandemic in the heart of the Madidi National Park will secure the future income for the indigenous Uchupiamonas families and stewardship of the natural capacities of the indigenous peoples living in this highly biodiverse landscape.
From Horse Guides to Conservation Stewards, Chile
Funding of this project will allow out of work arrieros (horse guides) affected by diminished tourism, to earn income while working for a much needed stewardship infrastructure project. This project will refurbish critical sensitive sections of the trail to Cochamó and provide wages to an invaluable workforce which keeps Cochamó afloat.
THANK YOU!
Our mission to harness the travel community's environmental and cultural conservation efforts for maximum impact, means nothing with our the support of so many people who make this happen:
ATCF Members for sharing the importance of this campaign
Grayl for offering a $2,000 match for this campaign
Every. Single. Donor.
A Lookback at a Record Year
As we approach the end of the year, we want to express our gratitude to so many of you from across the globe who have made it a wonderful and successful year for the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund and our community.
First things first, our members! They have been there for us in so many ways from nominating and voting on projects to donating auction items to their membership that allows us to support meaningful conservation work around the world, we are so grateful for their support. If you're 2020 goals include supporting incredible conservation work in important adventure travel destinations think about becoming a member. Just take a look at some of our highlights in 2019 to see the power our travel community has when we come together.
2019 HIGHLIGHTS
We distributed our largest annual dispersal of grant funding - $100,000 - to five new projects taking place all over the world.
We witnessed the highest turn out for project voting - over 90% of our members voted for the project grant winners! How awesome is that!
We added a new Adventure Leader, MiiR! And are thrilled about the other new members that joined our community this year - Adventure Transformations, Aniyami, Travel Babbo, India Insight Tours, Sendas Altas, Socompa, Enchanted Expeditions, Iconic Adventures, Hiking New Zealand, Trekking Hellas Group of Companies and Toad & Co. International, Inc.
We organized a successful cocktail event at the Summer Outdoor Retailer Summer show and had a record turnout at our annual breakfast event at the ATWS in Sweden in September, where we featured world-class climber, alpinist, and adventurer, Leo Houlding.
We put on our most successful auction to date raising $15k and we appreciate all of you that donated or participated in some way.
Our members voted in two new board members: Chris Noble and Gordon Seabury for terms beginning January 2020.
We also hired a new Membership & Outreach Coordinator, Marisa Gant. Who has been such an asset to our team and members.
Lastly, we could not have accomplished all that we did this year without the support of our amazing board of directors, as well as the incredible volunteers that put in countless hours. Special thanks to Amy Brown, Jonathan Burnham, and Colvin Hedgepeth!
Once again, thank you to all of you that made it a wonderful year. We look forward to building upon our successes in 2020 and we are so very appreciative of your support of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a great start to the new year!
Sincerely,
Soraya, Marisa, Steve, Cynthia, Richard, Neil, Nicky, Chunnie, Norie, Mandip, Praveen, Josie, Roger, Shannon, Chris and Gordon
For all those that feel the same
Let's Start 2020 By Giving These Projects Life
In case you missed the news last month, we announced our 2019 Grant Winners and awarded $100,000 to fund five conservation projects. Although this was a record year for us we wish we could do more and fund all of the amazing projects that made it onto the ballot.
For all those that feel the same - desiring to get more of these projects off the ground and running - ATCF launched our Adopt A Project Program in 2017 to facilitate member companies or other travel and outdoor and companies to support the other amazing projects left on the year’s ballot. From creating a trail in Georgia to support local tourism to saving sharks in Panama - here are the seven 2019 Projects for Adoption: (View Proposals)
The Transcaucasian Trail- Pankisi Valley, Georgia
Saving Coiba’s Sharks with Communities, Panama
Sustainable Management for 6.3 Million Acres of Ecuadorian Rainforest, Ecuador
A New Frontier, Egypt - Project Adopted!
Protecting Coral Reefs through Sustainable Tourism, Timor Leste
El Impenetrable National Park: Upraising the Wild, Argentina
Bringing Back Endangered Wildlife into Montenegro’s National Park of Virgin Forests, Montene
Learn more about the Adopt A Project Program and please fill out this form to take the steps to fund a specific conservation project from ATCF's 2019 ballot.
Adopt A Project Application Form
Conservation Member Spotlight
Check out ATCF member Natural Habitats project Ride 4 A Woman! So many of our members are already doing awesome conservation work. If you are one of those, please share more with us so that we can help share it with our community!
Donate to the ATCF
Lastly, you can be a part of augmenting our impact by making a donation to support the ATCF. Thank you to recent individual donors Kim Ross and Mona McPhee whose donations are greatly appreciated. As one of our members, Luis Vargas from Modern Adventures said about the difference ATCF makes:
“It's our responsibility and privilege to be able to invest in the conservation of people and place that make what we do possible. Thank you to the ATCF for making this possible in a simple and effective way.”
Your donation helps to:
Grow our yearly grant program.
Increase our ability to capture and distribute stories from our grant projects.
Amplify our presence and reach at conferences and summits.
Deepen the impact we are making in grant locations.
We thank you in advance for making a donation as a on-time offering or a recurring donation. Your donations are tax-deductible and greatly support us in furthering and deepening our collective impact.
Happiest of Holidays to you!
If you have any questions about the ATCF please send me your questions.
Sincerely,
Soraya Shattuck
ATCF Executive Director
MiiR Steps Up As New ATCF Adventure Leader Member
We are pleased to welcome MiiR as the newest Adventure Leader member. Adventure Leaders are distinguished ATCF members leading the way in their fields to conserve natural and cultural resources of international adventure travel destinations. These members play a critical role in supporting ATCF operations, allowing the organization to run and manage a successful grant program. With signing on as an Adventure Leader, these companies make a three-year commitment to contribute $25,000 annually.
“We are already funding nonprofit work around the world, but would love to see a focus on adventure tourism.” says Charlie Clark, Director of Impact for MiiR. “MiiR has a goal to develop an internal travel program which would highlight partners, projects and adventures which are part of our company's greater ecosystem. We see this relationship as an excellent opportunity to not only help drive positive change but be connected to a robust network of like-minded groups.”
The ATCF came into existence in 2017 with organizations in the adventure travel and outdoor retailer industries uniting to support and catalyze conservation and environmental protection efforts worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, the organization has awarded $235k towards 10 projectsin 9 countries in just two short years.
ATCF began their Adventure Leader membership when the organization began and with MiiR joining, we now have six Adventure Leaders: ExOfficio, Adventure Travel Trade Association, Eagle Creek, Backroads, REI Adventures and MiiR. Making a committing at this level, these Adventure Leaders have provided over $150 thousand in organizational support this year that helps the organization steward important conservation efforts worldwide.
MiiR, a Seattle based company founded in 2010, began with the mission to empower people for a better future. A Product to Project company, MiiR donates 3% of revenues to trackable Give Projects, creates timeless, innovative and thoughtfully designed products, primarily in the insulated drinkware category. MiiR partners with some of the most respected non-profits in the world to create sustainable projects that support clean water, a healthy environment, and strong communities across the globe. To date, MiiR has invested in 60 projects across 26 countries, and helped empower over 100,000 people.
Charlie Clark further explained that "at MiiR we exist to empower people for a better future. As an international brand which values environmental integrity and strong, healthy communities, it makes complete sense to align ourselves with the ATCF and its vision. As an Adventure Leader we hope to support critical programs and help drive awareness of the people and places which make the world worth traveling."
Thanks so much to MiiR and to all of the other members dedicated to supporting The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund protect the natural and cultural resources of adventure travel destinations. To learn more about membership, please read through our membership page, sign up to become a member below or contact us with any questions.
Sincerely,
Soraya Shattuck
Executive Director
PS: Thanks to MiiR for supplying us these sweet coffee tumblers at the ATCF Breakfast Meeting! This helped me reduce my plastic waste at this year's Adventure Travel World Summit in Sweden.
Welcome Our Two Newest ATCF Board of Directors
We are so pleased to welcome two new members to the ATCF board.
Gordon Seabury and Chris Noble both come to the ATCF bringing ample experience and a readiness for joining our active board as we continue to move the dial on conservation for adventure travel destinations. With terms beginning in January 2020, adding these two individuals brings the board of directors to fourteen members. We could not be more excited!
A little more about these two men so that you can get a better sense of who they are and why they accepted their nominations (as well as receiving sufficient votes by ATCF members) for joining this board of directors:
GORDON SEABURY, TOAD&CO
As an outdoor industry leader for the last 22 years, Gordon has committed his career to building brands that practice a triple bottom line (people, planet and profit) approach to business. After a four year stint as a management consultant at Deloitte, Gordon purchased Toad&Co (formerly Horny Toad Activewear), a small start-up outdoor apparel brand based in Telluride, CO. Now headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, he remains the CEO and Toad&Co designs responsible outdoor lifestyle clothing that seamlessly transitions from trail to tavern. He also co-founded Planet Access 20 years ago, a social enterprise committed to providing life skills, vocational training and outdoor experiences for people with disabilities. Gordon spent 17 years on the Outdoor Industry Association Board most recently as its Chairman. He formerly served on the Board of the not-for-profit Heal the Bay in Santa Monica and as a Director for RootsRated.com, a tech start-up in the outdoor lifestyle space. He is currently on the Advisory Boards of Alante Capital and Limeloop and sits on the Eco-Entrepreneurship Advisory Council at the Bren School at UCSB. He also serves as a mentor for Telluride Venture Accelerator and several early stage sustainable start-ups.
How do you feel that your history best prepares you for service on the ATCF Board?
I have been involved in the outdoor industry for 23 years as CEO of Toad&Co (formerly Horny Toad), a responsible outdoor and travel lifestyle apparel brand. During that time, I have also served on several Boards including the Outdoor Industry Association Board for 15 years (Chairman from 2015-2017). I currently work with several early stage entrepreneurs as adviser and mentor and on the Advisory Council of the Eco-Entrepreneurial program at the Bren Graduate School at UCSB. Toad&Co has been active members of the Conservation Alliance for over a decade along with many other environmental and socially responsible organizations in the industry and the communities we serve.
Describe prior experience you have working with nonprofits and conservation groups?
I have been involved as a Board member or adviser for several not-for-profits including the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), Planet Access & Search for Adventure (a social venture co-founded between T&Co and an organization providing vocational training, housing and life experiences for people with disabilities), Heal the Bay and the Bren Graduate School. I have also personally been active in Toad&Co's support and Board participation of the Conservation Alliance although not personally as a Board member.
Outline the specific skills you bring or contributions you hope to make to the ATCF Board.
Financial and strategic organization planning.
Start-up/early stage organizational experience and advice.
Building stronger relationships and network between the Outdoor and Adventure Travel industries.
Contribute to the future vision, scale and scope of the ATCF.
Leverage my OIA Board experience over the past 15 years to support ATTA/ATCF organizational evolution through growth and success.
Why do you seek a position on the ATCF Board of Directors?
Through my work and personal global travel, I have a deep appreciation for the impact adventure travel experiences can have on individuals and importance of preserving those experiences for future generations. I have been impressed since the launch of the ATCF at the Alaska ATTA Summit with the vision and momentum built to-date. I believe we are at a unique moment when the powers of the ATTA and OIA communities can work more collaboratively together to further their collective influence both in the activities and experiences they promote and the responsible conservation and sustainability ethos they share. I hope to contribute to building that collaboration and the corresponding momentum it can create.
Describe any experience with sustainable tourism.
Through our Toad&Co partnerships in the ATTA and our commitment to support sustainable living methods and business practices, we have provided education and eco-travel opportunities to our responsible consumer audience.
Describe any experience working in fundraising and development.
While there were some limited fundraising elements of the OIA Board, my most specific fundraising experience came from my Board role at Heal the Bay as it was the prime purpose of the position.
Describe any experience working with indigenous/community groups.
I do not have any personal experience working with indigenous groups.
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CHRIS NOBLE, WORLD NOMADS
Chris Noble is the GM of WorldNomads.com. A travel insurance brand that provides cover to residents of over 130 countries around the world. With over 20 years’ experience in strategic marketing, brand building, strategic alliance development, poorly crafted jokes and online community development, Chris is also the co-founder of The Footprints Network. The Footprints Network is an alliance of e-commerce travel companies funding global community development projects through micro-donations. So far they have funded over 217 community projects around the world from over 2 millions donations, harnessing the power of travelers to change lives. If he hadn’t escaped into the unknown in his youth, met people from all corners of the globe, continued to understand the world he lives in and worked hard with members of the adventure travel community to make a positive impact… he’d probably have been a Vegas dancer. We think he made the right call for all of us.
How do you feel that your history best prepares you for service on the ATCF Board?
I have been the General Manager of WorldNomads.com, an adventure travel insurance and travel services provider for the past 10 years (15 years in total). We have also been an ATTA member for over 10 years. We have been at the forefront of digital and content marketing, having worked with over 25 ATTA member organizations across a multitude of programs and campaigns aimed at growing awareness and participation in adventure travel. This has lead to not only developing a highly profitable international business underpinned by a substantial community (over 1.5 million travelers) but more importantly done so through harnessing partnerships with likeminded adventure organizations. Those that want to leave a positive impact and create sustainable programs that support people, communities and our planet. That's what inspires me and working within the ATCF to that goal would be an honor.
Describe prior experience you have working with nonprofits and conservation groups?
In 2005 after the Asian Tsunami, we developed The Footprints Network. Footprints is an organisation dedicated to fundraising through micro-donations technology. We do not implement projects itself but partner with specialist charities and NGO’s. The Footprints Network fund projects that broadly align to one or more United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in effort to help end poverty and shift the world onto a sustainable and resilient path by 2030. We believe that people will have come across many of these issues as they travel around the world and have a moral obligation to give a little back to do something about them. So far we have raised over $4.5 million dollars, from over 1.7 million travelers that have funded and completed 217 development projects worldwide. It's not the money we are proud of, it's that we've been able to tap into the hearts and wallets of over 1.7 million travelers that care as much as we do.
Outline the specific skills you bring or contributions you hope to make to the ATCF Board.
As above. I believe my strong marketing, leadership, partnership building skills combined with my passion for supporting the development of sustainable tourism programs makes me a strong candidate to join the team.
Why do you seek a position on the ATCF Board of Directors?
I believe through my experience with both WorldNomads.com and The Footprints Network that I can bring both the skills, passion and a different perspective on how to grow the impact of the work ATCF does. I am incredibly passionate about how to engage not just member organisations, but also travellers in general in ensuring that the work that the ATCF undertakes can have an impact beyond just the organisation membership. I want to help understand and create opportunities for all travellers to become both educated and ultimately advocates for sustainable tourism worldwide.
Describe any experience with sustainable tourism.
As above, we are working through Footprints to fund more projects based around sustainable tourism (such as - https://www.footprintsnetwork.org/project/214/Empower-Farmers-for-Sustainable-Tourism-in-South-India.aspx). We are also working on a 'Full Stack' approach to funding sustainable tourism with a number of ATTA members and have been a secondary funding partner for ATCF since its inception.
Describe any experience working in fundraising and development.
As above - lots! :)
Describe any experience working with indigenous/community groups.
Through The Footprints Network we have funded organizations that work primarily with local and indigenous community groups. This has been core to Footprints and the SDGs have provided that framework to enable our funding to reach those communities most in need. To see this in action, go to - https://www.footprintsnetwork.org/fundedprojects.aspx
Outdoor Retailer Success & The Summer Deets
We wanted to share a quick recap of how things went for us at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Show June 16 - June 20, 2019. This was our third year attending this show and we had a fantastic time!
The Deets!
In addition to catching up with ATCF members, successful meetings with brands, connecting with new folks and taking part in many happenings, we also hosted an AdventureConnect ATCF fundraising event in partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association. This event was a huge success with nearly 200 people attending spanning across the outdoor industry and adventure travel sectors! We also featured a silent auction with outdoor gear and adventure travel trips which were donated from a number of our ATCF members. Between closing a couple items from GreenSpot Travel and Todos Santos Eco Adventures, as well as raffling off a grand prize for an OARS rafting trip, we raised approximately $15 thousand dollars over the course of the event and the month of June! Attendees at the event also got the chance to hear from two-time grant winner WILDCOAST about all the conservation work they are up to in Baja and Oaxaca, Mexico. The event was so successful we plan to put it on next year! So mark your calendars for June 24, 2020 to join us again for this event.
Special Thanks
We want to thank the many ATCF members/partners whom made the OR Summer show a hit! We had a great time engaging and catching up with a number of ATCF member companies attending the show and whom supported us in one way or another.
We want to express our deep gratitude to all the member companies who donated items to the ATCF June auction - Angama Mara, Volcanoes Safari, Adventure Travel Trade Association, Eagle Creek, Mountain Lodges of Peru, OARS, Hydro Flask, ExOfficio, Osprey, Grayl, Toad & Co, Northern Outdoors, Stanley, Ibex Expeditions, Todos Santos Eco Adventures, GreenSpot Traveland REI Adventures. So many amazing items and adventure travel trips were bid on thanks to these member companies who supported us with this auction. A big heartfelt thanks!
In addition, shout outs are warranted to members/partners who generously sold items during the Outdoor Retailer show, with proceeds going to support the ATCF. This includes the following companies (some of whom have been making this happen for the last three years at this show). You all are rockstars!
Finally, we also were fortunate to have the following companies sponsors for our AdventureConnect event at the OR Show which made the event that much stronger and amazing. Thank you so much to Light my Fire, MSR, Branwyn, Upslope Brewing, Epic Brewing and REI for your contributions!
Whether you met with us at the OR show, joined us for our event or participated in our auction, we want to thank you for all your support. We hope all of you who attended the OR Summer Show had an equally great time and that those fortunate auction winners enjoy your amazing items.
Have questions about the OR Show or any other questions? Let me know.
Sincerely,
Soraya Shattuck
ATCF Executive Director
Spring is Here
Spring is in full bloom here in Seattle and we are riding this energy with ramping up towards our grant season and upcoming tradeshows/conferences! In addition, we have plenty going on that we want to share with as well as offer some ways you can participate and contribute.
Spring is in full bloom here in Seattle and we are riding this energy with ramping up towards our grant season and upcoming tradeshows/conferences! In addition, we have plenty going on that we want to share with as well as offer some ways you can participate and contribute.
Don’t Forget - Project Nominations Open!
In case you didn’t see, we opened up our project nominations to solicit projects from our members. And if you're not already a member, we’d be happy to help you become one! ATCF members may nominate up to two conservation projects for funding consideration by Friday, May 17, 2019. The projects nominated must meet our funding criteria. We encourage you to talk with your team, suppliers and greater network to find and submit great projects worthy of funding.
Project Updates!
The 9 grant projects that our ATCF members supported in 2017 & 2018 are all moving forward in wonderful ways! Check out what they have been working on!
ATCF MEMBERS
Stay tuned for newly re-designed visuals showcasing these grants that you can share with your customers! We hope to have these released next week, in addition to social media bites and updated project photos so that your community can easily recognize how you are making a difference for travel destinations all over the world.
Calling for Your Support!
The ATCF is holding our second auction and would appreciate your donations! With 100% of our membership dues going directly to finance conservation projects, we rely on events like this to raise funds to directly support the ATCF in administering our grant program. Last year, we ran our first successful auction (grossing over $12,000) and plan to carry out two more in 2019!
New Member
"We have grown by becoming part of a large community of entrepreneurs, dreamers and leaders that are bonded not only because there is an industry and business interest, but because there is passion and heart in what they do. We would love to be part of the Fund that can help us all guarantee amazing adventures to future generations. " - Mariana Caliuolo
Share Your Conservation Work!
Thanks to all those who responded to our call for stories that feature important conservation initiatives or lessons learned in the field. We hope to highlight stories that have a clear connection to the travel industry, and that encompasses an environmental or cultural focus.
Speaking of stories, check out this recently released video that ATCF member World Nomads put out in partnership with The Sea Turtle Conservation organization documenting the work they are doing in Costa Rica. This project’s aim is to reduce the impacts of climate change on sea turtles and promote eco-tourism around Tortuguero Beach, which hosts the largest green turtle rookery in the Western Hemisphere as a way to build sustainable conservation programs that provide revenue for local communities. Way to go World Nomads!
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Project Updates
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