International Animal Rescue (IAR) is celebrating Earth Day 2025 by sharing inspiring stories of hope and harmony. These stories showcase the successful efforts of IAR in working with local communities around the world to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Through images and real-life experiences, IAR demonstrates the unexpected connections that can be formed between people and nature, proving that coexistence is not just an ideal concept, but a reality that exists globally.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, emphasizes the importance of working alongside communities to achieve long-term conservation solutions that benefit both the environment and the community. He states, “We can’t just take away income streams; we need to provide alternatives to achieve long-term conservation goals, and that’s what we’ve been delivering.”
One of IAR’s successful partnerships is with YIARI in Indonesia, where they have planted over 130,000 trees and protected 300,000 hectares of forest, crucial habitat for species like orangutans. This work has also prevented approximately 70 million tonnes of CO2e from entering the atmosphere.
Among their various community projects, IAR highlights the first-ever 96-strong female firefighting team in Borneo, known as “The Incredible Power of Mama.” This team empowers communities living on the forest edge through education and providing alternative income streams.
Their scholarship program has also enabled 11 graduates to pursue further education, with the goal of breaking the cycle of illegal activities in their community. Additionally, IAR’s Access to Literacy project provides education and learning opportunities for children and women who did not have access to education before.
The Sir Michael Uren Learning Centre, run by IAR’s partner YIARI, is a hub of education, learning, and community development in Western Borneo. This center aims to bring together various stakeholders to work towards a better future for people and nature.
Furthermore, IAR supports villagers in areas affected by illegal mining by providing access to agricultural technology and teaching sustainable farming techniques. Through their conservation efforts, over 770 animals have been released, and 565 animal species have been protected in the Batutegi forest.
Bruce emphasizes the importance of grassroots initiatives and collective action in wildlife conservation, using the example of The Power of Mama. He states, “Their connection to nature and dedication is a testament to local engagement’s crucial role in achieving lasting conservation outcomes.”
To learn more about International Animal Rescue’s projects, visit their website at www.internationalanimalrescue.org.
Press release distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
