Skip to content

Programs : Brochure

This page is the brochure for your selected program. You can view the provided information for this program on this page and click on the available buttons for additional options.

Mexico Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation Internship (short-term) (Directory Program)

Print  Save 

  • Locations: Puerto Morelos, Mexico
  • Program Terms: Academic Year, Calendar Year, Fall, J-Term, Jan Term, Janterm, May Term, Semester, Spring, Summer, Summer I, Summer II, Summer III, Summer IV, Trimester, Winter
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: GVI 
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Language of Instruction: English Housing Options: Dormitory, Hostel/Hotel, Other
Program Description:

Mexico Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation Internship (short-term)

Cover
Enjoy the warm tropical waters and the coral reefs of the Mexican Caribbean in Puerto Morelos, as you participate in marine conservation training and development. This internship is designed to help you learn about the ecology of the coral reef ecosystem through lectures and in field training while contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals #14 Life Below Water.
 
You will see firsthand the diverse environmental factors that impact the reef ecosystem, and work with the community in the conservation and restoration of the Mesoamerican reef system in the region. These activities will also mean that you will be contributing towards UNSDG #13 Climate Action, UNSDG #12 Responsible Consumption and Production and UNSDG #4 Quality Education.
 
PROGRAM FOCUS
 
Approximately 50% of coral reefs around the world have bleached over the past three decades. This biodiverse species faces a true threat of extinction with the rise of global warming, and GVI’s work in Mexico directly contributes not only to studies in replicating and protecting surviving species, but also looks at longer term preservation and education strategies, in aid of protecting the species on a larger scale.

Working with an international team, you will undergo extensive training, designed to improve your skills and further your knowledge of the marine ecosystem. This program also provides a fine balance between theoretical and practical learning, giving you a “hands on” experience, which will be of great benefit not only from a professional development point of view, but also in terms of your personal development too. On this internship, you will also gain a formal ILM qualification on base, which will assist you in your career pursuits following the completion of the program.

Puerto Morelos is a tiny port town based on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Your adventure with GVI starts here, as you immerse yourself in the charming character and culture of what is traditionally a well known fishing village. The town contains a wide variety of dive sites and breathtaking cenotes, which you may explore as part of your participation on this program. This particular project is made possible by GVI in conjunction with highly revered local partners and organisations in the region. Through these partnerships, our interns are assured of measurable impact while on the ground.

Cover
 LOCATION
 
GVI’s base camp is in the town of Puerto Morelos, situated on a stretch of the Carribean coastline known as the Riviera Maya. Puerto Morelos is the oldest town on the Mexican Carribean coast.  The Riviera Maya is a top tourist destination, and there are many spots for snorkelling and diving in this area. 
 
While the biggest industry in Puerto Morelos is tourism, fishing comes in a close-second. The fishing trade is essential to the economic well-being of this Mexican community. Volunteer work in Puerto Morelos focuses on community development and marine conservation.
 
Volunteers assist the local community in planning and implementing sustainable practices aimed at making a positive impact in Puerto Morelos. 
 
This may mean assisting the local community with beach cleans, to reduce environmental pollution. It could also involve volunteers contributing to marine conservation by running environmental awareness workshops with school children and the broader community. Another way that sustainability is promoted is through programs focused on the conservation of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, and other marine life.
 
These programs look to find the balance between the usage and maintenance of natural resources in Puerto Morelos. Volunteer work in Mexico that’s focused on marine conservation has an immediate effect on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, as well as on the well-being of other marine life in the Riviera Maya.
 
By contributing to sustainable development efforts on land and in the sea, this volunteer work in Mexico can go a long way in contributing to the sustainability of the Puerto Morelos community.
 
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
 
  • Improve your employability if you have dreams of starting a career in (or growing your skills in) marine conservation.
  • Work both in and outside the water, as you contribute to national efforts to protect and assist in reproducing endangered coral reefs.
  • If staying 8 weeks or longer you will complete your Biological Survey Techniques training and qualification.
  • Visit a tropical paradise, providing you with an opportunity to experience a new culture and way of life.
  • Earn your GVI ILM Leadership Development certificate, a qualification recognised by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).
  • Experience snorkelling, swimming and diving in a comfortable, warm landscape and climate.
  • Meet people from all corners of the world, as you expand your network and boost your status as a global citizen.
 
If applying for this program to obtain credit from an institution, GVI can supply learning outcomes and support in the application.
 
For more information, check out our video https://youtu.be/vKuzdAOzQDg