VIDA SILVESTRE
Founded in 1977 , Vida Silvestre is a leading environmental NGO in Argentina and since 1988 is the Argentinian arm of the World Wildlife Fund . Given that overuse of natural resources is a critical problem in Argentina , their vision is for human development to unfold in harmony with nature . Vida Silvestre focuses its work on the protection of natural areas , on responsible consumption of resources , as well as responsible production , environmental legislation , awareness and education . Priority areas of work focus on eco-regions that are rich in biodiversity but endangered , such as the Paranaense rainforest , the Great Chaco , the Pampas , the country ’ s coastal waters and shores , and Antarctica . Through tireless work , Vida Silvestre has been able to establish over 20 protected wildlife areas in Argentina .
Argentina ’ s constitution says that all inhabitants have a right to a healthy environment and the human development and needs should not have a negative impact on future generations , but must preserve them . This is essentially the definition of sustainable development . Vida Silvestre works actively with the governments in Argentina to ensure that new laws , policies and plans guarantee environmental protection .
Of particular interest to GGP readers is Vida Silvestre ’ s work with local fauna . They have organized local adoption programs to help protect endangered animals . Through “ symbolic ” adoption , people can donate toward the costs of protecting species and buying protected land . Vida Silvestre has been actively involved in protecting whales , deer , pumas , jaguars , among other endangered species .
Vida Silvestre is involved in a number of other great projects including helping commodity ( wood , soy ) producers reduce the ecological footprint of their production . To learn about their projects visit their website or wikipedia page .
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Research what environmental challenges your local community is facing . Is there anything you can do alone , with your family , friends and community to help ? Make a list of ideas , pick your favorite one and start planning what you will do .
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