you have a place in conservation

What is conservation?

Conservation is action – understanding and protecting the natural world and the biodiversity around us.

Biodiversity (biological diversity) refers to the total variety of life on Earth – including us humans!

Have you ever visited a river full of life with fish, algae, frogs, dragonflies, trees, hawks, lizards, insects? They’re all part of a healthy biodiverse ecosystem.

Monarch Butterflies at Jones Beach Pine Barrens on Long Island, New York, during their Great Migration. Can you spot the red tracking tag on one of the butterflies.

Image source: The Fire Island Pines Historical Society.

Why care?

According to Earth.org:

“There are between 5.3 million and one trillion species on Earth and while humans just make up 0.01% of the planet’s life, their activities are compromising its health and killing millions of animals and plants every year.”

Humans have a massive impact on the planet. Many people protect the environment while others destroy it.

Are you aware of the environmental impact of data centers? Do you live near one?

Did you know?

You don’t have to be a researcher or scientist to have a role in conservation.

You can change a habit and share what you learn.

You could volunteer or even make conservation your career!

Why is biodiversity important?

David Attenborough explains why humans depend on the health of our planet and why we’re linked to Earth’s biodiversity.

Things you can do

Pivot your tech skills

According to trueup.io, over 50,000 tech people have been laid off in early 2026. In 2025, over 250,000 people were laid off! If you’re in tech and looking for a change, the conservation sector needs your skills.

Job Boards and Training Resources

Job Boards

Training/Educational Resources

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to do something for a cause you care about. If you’re considering a career in conservation it’s a great way learn and find your fit.

List of volunteer resources

VolunteerMatch.org – Large database of volunteer opportunities, searchable by cause (including environment/animals) and location

Idealist.org – Connects people with nonprofit jobs and volunteer positions, including conservation work

All for Good – Aggregates volunteer opportunities from multiple sources

Wildlife & Nature Focused

National Wildlife Federation – Local chapter volunteer opportunities across the US

Audubon Society – Bird conservation and habitat restoration projects through local chapters

The Nature Conservancy – Volunteer page connects you to local preserve and restoration work

Sierra Club – Outings and conservation volunteer projects nationwide

Specialized Programs

National Park Service Volunteers – Direct volunteer opportunities at national parks

Youth-Specific

American Conservation Experience – Programs for ages 15+

Student Conservation Association – Youth and young adult conservation crews

Contact legislators (USA)

Calling your representatives is one of the most powerful ways to make your voice heard on proposals and bills. Petitions work too—they raise awareness and can draw media attention to critical issues.

Contacts and petitions

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

We need to recycle, but it isn’t the answer to eliminating waste in landfills or plastics in the environment. Reducing our consumption and repurposing items is a way to move forward.

Keep an eye out for Plastic Free July and learn more about the three Rs here!

Donate

Charity Navigator evaluates how well nonprofits operate, giving you clear insights to support causes with confidence. Most organizations listed are US-based.

Become a citizen scientist

You can start reporting what you see by simply installing an app on your smartphone! The apps listed below are free and offer a great way to learn about conservation: