It is no mistake that two of the 2021 Sustainable Tourism Grants are to empower initiatives being spearheaded by young people who are conservation leaders and represent the next generation of decision makers. Giving them the exposure, skills and encouragement they need now will help them demonstrate their capabilities and lay the foundation for future impact. We are delighted to be working with Kelab Alami Mukim Tanjung Kupang in Johor, and the new Rapid Response Conservation Unit of Fuze Ecoteer in the Perhentian Islands of Terengganu. … [Read more...] about Empowering the next generation of community leaders
Grants
Microplastic Loads in Fish and Invertebrates in Malaysian Rivers
This research grant will support researchers from University of Nottingham, Malaysia to evaluate the presence and impact of microplastics in our river ecosystems. The lead researcher is Dr Christopher Gibbins, a Professor of Hydro-ecology and sustainable river management at the School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, University of Nottingham Malaysia. His work focusses on understanding the links between physical habitat conditions and biota in freshwater ecosystems. The study will be implemented with colleagues from Nottingham … [Read more...] about Microplastic Loads in Fish and Invertebrates in Malaysian Rivers
Ecosystem Services Provided by Bats in Ricefields
The study to be undertaken Dr Nurul ‘Ain of the School of Biological Sciences, USM focusses on the insectivorous bats of the Gunung Keriang area of Kedah. It aims to ascertain whether the insectivorous bats which roost in the nearby limestones caves are consuming species that are known to be pests in rice fields. The research methodology involves documenting seasonal insect abundance and pest availability at different phases of paddy growth. Faecal samples of bats will be analysed to understand resource partitioning among the bats of … [Read more...] about Ecosystem Services Provided by Bats in Ricefields
Investing in building local capacity for Sustainable Tourism
The Habitat Foundation Sustainable Tourism Grants have been created to strengthen the links between ecotourism and conservation. It is no surprise, therefore, that two of these grants are investing in capacity building for local communities. The grants are facilitating training by academics and science-based NGOs to equip local people to be stewards and guides to natural attractions. This will also enable individuals and community organizations to play an effective role in conservation by safeguarding fragile sites and vulnerable … [Read more...] about Investing in building local capacity for Sustainable Tourism
Advancing research in the proposed Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve
The forests of Penang Hill offer exceptional opportunities for ecosystem and sustainability studies. Here you will find an unbroken swathe of pristine yet accessible ecosystems from hill and lower montane forest, to coastal mangroves and lowland forest, contained within Penang National Park. In 2019/2020 the Foundation provided Research Grants towards studies to describe the diversity of cyanobacteria, wild edible and medicinal fungi, and the endemic Penang Hill Vampire Crab. In 2021, we are continuing to provide Research Grants that … [Read more...] about Advancing research in the proposed Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve
