Who We Are

Biodiversity by definition is the variety of life on earth including all plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms. IDEA WILD believes all life forms have intrinsic value and likely benefit humankind in numerous ways. Diverse life forms benefits humankind by providing 79% of the natural products found in the top 150 prescriptions, food from both wild and domesticated plants and animals, and fiber for building, clothing and paper. Diverse life forms also help maintain complex ecosystems so we can enjoy clean air and water. Biodiversity, in fact is the very foundation of human existence and “like every other species, ours is dependent on others for its own survival.”

Unfortunately, in the last four centuries humankind has caused the extinction of 484 animals and 654 plant species. Habitat destruction, introduced species, population growth, pollution and over-consumption continue to contribute to the demise of others. Work conducted by the UN Environmental Program estimated over 30,000 (5,400 animal, 26,000 plant) species are now threatened with extinction. Needless to say, this accomplishes little to benefit our own kind, let alone those species faced with impending demise.

IDEA WILD’s efforts conserve biodiversity by providing biologists and educators working in developing countries with equipment and supplies to aid in their conservation efforts. Since our beginning fourteen years ago, we have aided over 2500 projects in 82 developing countries. Recipients often share equipment with at least 3 other conservation projects. Consequently, the actual number of people using equipment and supplies provided by IDEA WILD is over 7500. The average cost per project is around $720. With IDEA WILD, a nominal conservation investment goes a very long way!

IDEA WILD is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization
All contributions are tax-deductible: Tax ID # 83-0299770

History

IDEA WILD was founded in 1991 to minimize the loss of biodiversity by empowering people who work on the front lines of conservation efforts in developing countries. We initiated work in Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Venezuela during 1992-1995. Additional South American countries were added in 1996-1999, with the Philippines, Madagascar, Caribbean, and West Africa added in 2000-2002. More recently, in 2003 – 2005, we have begun to expand the model into more countries in Southeast Asia.

IDEA WILD is unique to the conservation arena and provides basic equipment and supplies for biodiversity research and conservation education projects. We receive requests daily for basic tools from professors, students, activists, and non-profit staff working to minimize the loss of biodiversity within their countries.

IDEA WILD:

■ Provides Equipment and Supplies – In fourteen years IDEA WILD has provided binoculars, mist nets, climbing equipment, computers, printers, global positioning systems, slide projectors, video and 35mm cameras, and other equipment, directly to more than 2500 conservation projects in 82 countries.
■ Promotes Recycling – IDEA WILD encourages equipment transfer from one project to another when the first is completed. On average, the equipment cycles through at least three projects. Consequently, over 7500 projects have used, or are currently using, equipment provided by IDEA WILD.
■ Collects Data – Hundreds of theses, management plans, technical reports, scientific papers, videos and educational materials for children have been created with the enormous amount of data collected with IDEA WILD equipment donations.
■ Facilitates Training – Professors, graduate and undergraduate students, non-profit staff, and other nationals have all gained experience and skills using equipment donated by IDEA WILD.
■ Fills Professional Positions – IDEA WILD recipients have moved up to fill positions in national parks, eco-tourism operations, zoos, universities, non-profit organizations, and government agencies with individuals experienced in biodiversity conservation.
■ Creates Symbiotic Relationships - IDEA WILD has created mutually beneficial relationships with numerous equipment suppliers resulting in discounted equipment, and consequently, more projects funded per dollar donated.

IDEA WILD receives funding from direct mailings, slide presentations, merchandising, benefit auctions, individuals, corporations, and private foundations and has increased funding every year since 1991…