We have always believed that our business can, and should, have a positive impact on the local community, environment and wildlife. As lovers of the outdoors it’s our responsibility give something back to the communities and environment in which we serve and work. As part of this commitment, a percentage of the profits at Flight of the Gibbon is set aside every month for conservation projects in Thailand and other parts of Asia. We have a dedicated, full-time conservation team that works with local experts to deliver meaningful conservation projects and we have already achieved some notable successes.
Our projects include regular tree planting events (at least once a year) as well as tree aftercare and maintenance. We’ve also rehabilitated a threatened species of gibbon around Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. The results have been so successful that the primates have reproduced and there are now a family of gibbons enjoying life in the Chiang Mai rainforest. We also work together with the local community to provide employment opportunities and education. Please see more information below about our company, our values, our projects and our history.
Traditional Conservation
It's no secret that traditional conservation methods, while well meaning, have been failing miserably. Since the first forest and wildlife conservation programs were embraced internationally some 60-70 years ago, half of the world's forests have been destroyed and biodiversity has plummeted around the globe to the point where many scientists are already terming this era the ‘sixth great extinction’.
Flight of the Gibbon strives to introduce more effective conservation projects. We do this through our unique model of public and private partnerships that create long-term value for all our stakeholders, including local communities and visitors.
The Flight of the Gibbon Conservation Model
Empower
Step one: is to empower local communities to preserve the environment through sustainable livelihoods such as community agriculture, agroforestry and ecotourism. In order to make a living and survive, some rural Asian communities have engaged in wildlife poaching and forest destruction. By supporting traditional livelihood programs and ecotourism, we help these communities increase their income and encourage sustainable – rather than destructive – practices. Examples include community owned/operated restaurants using sustainably grown ingredients and produce gathered from the forest. Flight of the Gibbon also provides jobs and income to locals with the added benefit that eco-tours, such as our Ancient Village Artisans Tour, helps to preserve a traditional way of life.
Educate
Step two: is to design and implement educational programs for the community, students and tourists. This has the benefit of conserving the environment and preserving traditional livelihoods. The Flight of the Gibbon model of preservation and conservation is strengthened with continued education for adults and experiential learning for children.
Rescue
Step three: involves the rescue, rehabilitation and repopulation of endangered species and wildlife that is vulnerable to poaching close to where we operate. Our goal is to release animals into forests where they can stay safe. This is achieved by co-operating with local authorities, NGOs, the community, and animal husbandry experts. Flight of the Gibbon is also proactive in educating and training former hunters and poachers from the local community. We can then employ them in a positive role as forest guards to protect the wildlife population.
Reforest
The key to preserving the rainforests, preventing climate change, and protecting mammal populations is to regrow and reconnect fragmented forests. To help this, we plant indigenous species to increase forest density. In some areas of forest there are ‘conflict zones’ between primates and humans because of insufficient food sources. To resolve this problem, we plant specific plants and trees so that human and animal communities are properly sustained.
Sustain
When you book a tour with Flight of the Gibbon you will enjoy an unforgettable experience. Just as importantly, you help us to sustain and improve our work. Find out more about how you can get involved with our projects and check our full range of tours.