The inspiration that drives us
There are many champions in the environmental field it seems unfair to single out just two or three. However there are a handful of groups that are fundamental to us here at Zipperlen Consulting.
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity project (TEEB)
This major international initiative was born out of the G8+ Summit in 2008. TEEBs mission is to draw attention to the global economic benefits of biodiversity, to highlight the growing costs of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, and to draw together expertise from the fields of science, economics and policy to enable practical actions moving forward.
The project has undertaken an extensive review of scientific literature on biodiversity valuation, has synthesised the findings and published practical frameworks for policy makers, business and citizens.
New resources are appearing regularly as the project gains momentum. Check out their web site communicating th importance of biodiversity valuation to citizens at The Bank of Natural Capital.
David Suzuki - and the David Suzuki Foundation
The David Suzuki Foundation works with government, business and individuals to conserve the
environment by providing science-based education, advocacy and policy
work. It also acts as a catalyst for the social change that today's
situation demands and has a special focus on empowering young people in environmental politics. This mutli tiered approach is essential in achieving a better deal for the environment.
Top goals are: protecting our climate, transforming the economy,
protecting nature, reconnecting with nature and building community.
"Our mission is to protect the diversity of nature and our quality of life, now and for the future."
"Our vision is that within a generation, Canadians act on the
understanding that we are all interconnected and interdependent with
nature."
The Danum Valley Field Centre - Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Nestled in the heart of the Bornean rainforest, Danum Valley is probably now the leading rainforest research centre in the old world tropics. The centre lies adjacent to the Danum Valley Conservation Area, one of the largest, most important and best-protected expanses of
pristine lowland forest remaining in SE Asia covering 43,800 hectares.
This rainforest is truly spectacular. During the 1990s, founder Shirley Zipperlen spent over 3 years living and working at Danum under the auspices of the Royal Society South East Asian Rainforest Research Programme. The impact of experiencing this majestic environment first hand, and the desire to cherish and protect it, is one of the major influences on Zipperlen Consulting.
For more information on Shirley's background visit our "About Us" page.