International Animal Rescue Marks Earth Day 2025 by Sharing Stories of Hope and Harmony
London, UK – In celebration of Earth Day 2025, International Animal Rescue (IAR) has released a series of powerful images and stories showcasing the remarkable success of their projects in working with local communities to promote human-wildlife coexistence. These heartwarming stories demonstrate the deep connections that can be formed between people and nature, proving that coexistence is not just an ideal concept, but a reality happening globally today.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, explains the significance of Earth Day in recognizing our connection to nature and the importance of working alongside communities to achieve long-term conservation solutions that benefit both humans and the environment. “We cannot simply take away income streams from communities,” he says. “We need to provide alternatives to ensure long-term conservation goals are met, and that is exactly what we have been doing. From Indonesia’s rainforests to Armenia’s hills, we have shown that by educating and supporting communities, we can achieve success in improving their prosperity and well-being, while also making a positive impact on nature.”
One of IAR’s successful partnerships is with YIARI in Indonesia, where over 130,000 trees have been planted and 300,000 hectares of forest have been safeguarded, providing important habitat for iconic species such as orangutans. This conservation effort also prevented an estimated 70 million tonnes of CO2e from being released into the atmosphere, crucial for mitigating climate change and protecting endangered species.
Some of IAR’s other community projects include the Incredible Power of Mama, an all-female firefighting team in Borneo, YIARI’s scholarship program that supports education for young people in remote areas, and their Access to Literacy project, which promotes learning and skill development for children and women. IAR also operates the Sir Michael Uren Learning Centre in Ketapang, Western Borneo, which serves as a hub for education, research, and community development.
In addition to these initiatives, IAR also provides agricultural support to villages affected by illegal mining, teaches organic farming and sustainable agriculture techniques, and conducts rescue and release operations for animals across Indonesia. Through their conservation and habitat protection efforts, over 300,000 hectares of forest have been safeguarded, preventing the release of 70 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
IAR’s success in promoting human-wildlife coexistence through community engagement is exemplified by the story of The Power of Mama, a group of 96 women who are making a difference in wildlife conservation. These women are not only safeguarding forests and educating the next generation, but they are also challenging gender norms and building resilient communities. Their dedication and connection to nature serve as a testament to the crucial role of local engagement in achieving lasting conservation outcomes.
To learn more about International Animal Rescue’s projects, visit their website at www.internationalanimalrescue.org.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.