Darwin Leader Week Tenerife!

1 September 2023

Darwin Leader Week Tenerife!

The first Darwin Leader Week has kicked off in Tenerife. Throughout this week, we serve as the home base for five Darwin Leaders, five cameramen, and the project leaders. But who exactly are Darwin Leaders? In a nutshell, they are young, passionate scientists (in training) specializing in the fields of natureconservation and sustainability.

Every topic covered during this event bears a connection to the work of Charles Darwin. During his voyages, Darwin meticulously documented numerous plant and animal species. This week’s focus revolves around research into Pilot Whales, Dragon Trees, endemic bird species, and subtropical forests. One of the primary research questions examines how plant and animal species have evolved over the past two centuries, including the various influences that shaped these developments. After this an assessment is made of ongoing efforts to preserve these species. Following that, a plan is devised to enhance or expand the current conservation methods. Collaborating with local scientists and specialists, the Darwin Leaders have a mere five days to accomplish this task. The comprehensive results will be presented at the conclusion of the week, accompanied by photographic and video documentation.

To achieve all of this within the span of five days, the team works tirelessly aboard the ship, often well into the late hours. The ship’s salon has been transformed into an office and media space. Laptops are scattered all around, and individuals are engrossed in their work. Just before dinner, the tables are temporarily cleared to make way for plates and other meal necessities. Not long after dining, the tables are once again filled with laptops and work materials.