The Nurture Nature Campaign is a coalition-based initiative enabling individual and community choices to end harmful wildlife trades. It was launched in Trinidad and Tobago, with plans to expand throughout the Caribbean.  Harmful components of wildlife trade include species endangerment and ecosystem disruption. Non-native animals released into the wild create conflicts with local wildlife, and many pet owners are unaware of the harm they cause until it is too late. In light of this, our campaign’s mission is to create a region where all individuals who interact with wild animals are well informed to treat them with respect, context, and competence.

Our strategies to eliminate detrimental wildlife trade through education, community engagement, policy advocacy, and collaborative projects include:

• Social Marketing Campaigns: Raising awareness and promoting positive behavior changes regarding the wildlife trade.

• Public Education: Educating the public, particularly the youth, about wildlife conservation and the impacts of the wildlife trade.

• Community Engagement: Involving local communities in conservation efforts and fostering a sense of responsibility toward wildlife.

• Capacity Building: Strengthening the abilities of local organizations and individuals to manage and protect wildlife effectively.

• Policy Advocacy: Pushing for stronger policies and regulations to support wildlife conservation and ethical trade practices.

• Collaborative Projects: Partnering with other organizations and stakeholders to implement best-practice wildlife projects.

We have successfully conducted numerous public awareness campaigns, community workshops, and collaborative projects and continue to work towards its vision and mission.

The foundation of our campaign is collaboration with civil society organizations to work towards common goals for wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Our partners include:

• Animals 360 Foundation

• Animals Alive

• Centre for the Rescue of Endangered Species of Trinidad and Tobago (CRESTT)

• Corbin Local Wildlife Park

• El Socorro Centre for Wildlife Conservation

• Environment Tobago (ET)

• Trinidad and Tobago Field Naturalists’ Club (TTFNC)

• Trinidad and Tobago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TTSPCA)

• Trinidad and Tobago Veterinary Association (TTVA)

• Venus Doggess of Love

• Veterinary Students' Association of Trinidad and Tobago (VSATT)

The Campaign was made possible with funding from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

You can also visit the Campaign on Facebook and Instagram.

How You Can Help

With your support, the Nurture Nature Campaign can raise awareness, cooperation, and capacity in communities for responsible wildlife stewardship. Your contributions will help save Caribbean wildlife and ensure a thriving natural environment.