Ecuador Going Green in Ecuador

Although barely larger than the state of Wyoming, Ecuador is one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, meaning you get a lot of ecological bang for your buck. Between continental Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands—birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution and many a blue-footed booby—the country’s geography covers everything from tropical sanctuaries to the altitudes of the Andes (hence its popularity among penguin- and butterfly-lovers alike). This complex ecosystem is delicate, and accordingly conservation is one of the most critical issues in contemporary Ecuador. Preserving the vast array of flora and fauna in this biodiversity hot spot is the goal of numerous programs. From protecting cloud forests to managing organic farms, there’s an organization for every cause

While many of these opportunities are organized by English-speaking groups, the vast majority of them require volunteers to have at least an intermediate knowledge of Spanish in order to interact with the community.

Conservation

Earthwatch, 3 Clocktower Pl., Ste. 100, Box 75, Maynard, MA 01754 (+1-800-776-0188 or 978-461-0081; www.earthwatch.org). Arranges 1- to 3-week pro-grams in Ecuador to promote conservation of natural resources ...more

Ecotourism

Arajuno Jungle Lodge, Quito (+593 8 268 2287; larstom@gmail.com). On the banks of the Arajuno River. This forest reserve-cum-hostel has volunteer opportunities for forest conservation, agriculture, aquaculture ...more

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