Making Conservation a Global Priority

For the last 14 years the BP Conservation Programme has promoted pioneering scientific projects worldwide as part of its contribution to global conservation priorities.

The programme is run in partnership with BirdLife International, Conservation International, Fauna & Flora International and the Wildlife Conservation Society and is an excellent example of international business and conservation organisations working together. By helping to develop future capacity the programme has attracted, supported, and helped develop the skills of large numbers of young people, many of whom stay on in careers related to conservation. Projects are organised by teams of university students, who work closely with specialist advisers and local communities to investigate threatened animals, plants, and habitats. The overall aim is to make long-term conservation gains, and to demonstrate ways in which human needs can co-exist with environmental priorities.

Programme participants benefit from a comprehensive training system, as well as financial awards.

At a local level the programme seeks to raise awareness and involvement of people in grass-roots conservation issues. At the national level it is helping develop capacity in countries with globally threatened habitats and species. Globally the programme has not only helped encourage international cooperation in tackling diverse conservation priorities, but has also created a worldwide network of individuals deeply committed to conservation.