China’s Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Projects

If you have a few months in China and want to do something where you can travel a bit, settle a bit, and have a deeply rewarding experience, then perhaps a volunteer program would be right up your alley. There are different companies and types of volunteer programs that you can find in China although not quite with as much variety as other countries, but there are still numerous activities you can do ranging from conservation, animal or wildlife care, social programs like working in schools with children or the disabled, or building houses and necessary infrastructure. The nice thing about stopping for a few weeks or months is that you can relax a bit and do something both memorable and fun. Sometimes you need a break from endlessly jumping on and off trains, planes, and busses.

Photo: Andrea Hunt

This first section will cover volunteer opportunities that pertain to environmental and wildlife conservation. This is a good opportunity to partake in something that will benefit the environment here in China for the future. There are a few ways that you can find these kinds of programs. For some of them, you need to go though a company who will find you the program for a fee. These fees range greatly so check out several before making your selection. There are many different options if you check online. It’s important that you remember that just because you’re volunteering doesn't mean it’s cheap! Most programs charge hefty fees. However, there are other projects where you can pay your own transportation and room and board. Here are a couple examples of some interesting alternatives to simply being a tourist in China and a couple of ways to go off the beaten path.

Restoration of the Great Wall: World Endeavors

China’s Great Wall is over 3000 years old and stretches over an incredible area of 8,851.8 km (5,500.3 mi)). Incredibly, the initial construction of the Wall started in the 5th century BC. Needless to say, because of its ancient beginnings, there is a lot of work that goes into the restoration and preservation of this great wonder of the world. The minute you set foot on the Wall for the first time, you will immediately feel the splendor of standing on thousands of years of history before your feet. So what better way to enhance your experience of China than by volunteering to restore one of the most awed creations man has created?

Details:
This program requires that you sign up with one other person.
The program is 2 weeks long, available from April to July, September to October.
If available the program gives you an orientation when you first arrive to Beijing.
You have the opportunity to live with a Chinese family
You work 4-5 hours a day rebuilding portions of the Great Wall.

For more detailed information, check their website.

Photo: Hao Wei

Volunteer taking care of Pandas: Real Gap- Panda Volunteer Adventure

This is a truly amazing experience to take care of one of the world’s most endangered species. In total, there are only 1600 pandas alive today. The panda is one of the most beloved symbols of China and you will be able to be near the pandas and interact with them first hand.

Details:
The program is in Bei fangxia, 150 km from Chengdu.
The programs range in length from 1-4 weeks.
You can volunteer to go work at the Panda Conservation Center and prepare and serve them food.
You will clean the quarters.
You can observe and research them under observation.
The price of the program includes room and board.

Check the site for more detailed information.

Photo: Magnus Manske

Volunteer in the City with Cats and Dogs: Beijing Human and Animal Environmental Education Center:

If you love animals, especially cats and dogs, and want to have the chance to live in Beijing for a bit while making a difference, consider working in the Beijing Human and Animal Environmental Education Center. The center focuses on the humane treatment of animals as well as adoption and care.

Details:
As a volunteer, you will be responsible for feeding, cleaning, walking and caring for the animals at the facility, as well as helping to promote the center to International organizations.

See the site for more detailed information

Photo: hiphotos

Live with a Family and Work in a Village in Tibet: The Snowland Great Rivers Environmental Protection Association

This volunteer excursion is not for everyone but will give you an extremely rare and rewarding view of life from the perspective of the Tibetan villagers. The association aims to educate people about biodiversity and ecological conservation of the region. This association focuses on a variety of outdoor activities mainly centered around on the three rivers of the Yushu area of Tibet as well as the grasslands, mountains, lakes, and forests. The programs offer a variety of programs that are matched to your knowledge, interests and abilities. There are even opportunities for volunteers to live with herdsman in order to gain experience and understanding of the challenges they face. This is truly an opportunity that is once in a lifetime. To see if there is an appropriate placement for you check the site for more details.

Photo: Oliver Herold

To check out more amazing volunteer experiences, check back for our next section of this article on Rural Development, Medical Outreach, etc.

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Related links:

China Explorer> Introduction to Travel in China
Expat Corner> 5 Tips to Finding the Perfect Teaching Job in China
China Explorer> How to Get a Drink Thrown in Your Face Over Panda Sex
China Explorer> Teddy Bear is the word at Emeishan!
Expat Corner> Hit the Girl? China says, "Not Anymore"

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