BUZZ ISSUE 13 - JUL 2025

JULY 2025
BUZZ
B E T H E B E S T Y O U C A N B E
ISSUE
#13
Special Edition
Focus Budget on Wildlife Friendly
Conservation Hobbies
and what Page GenZ 7
can do!
www.ubee.org.uk
WILDLIFE UNDER
THREAT
The State of Global Conservation
Page 5
Issue #13: / July 2025 / buzz@ubee.org.uk / www.ubee.org.uk
GEN Z
The Impact of Gen Z on Wildlife
Conservation
Pages 7-9
CELEBRITIES DOING
THEIR PART
Wildlife Conservation in Pop
Culture: Leonardo di Caprio,
Prince William and more...
Pages 17-19

WHAT'S IN
BUZZ?
3
A welcome to BUZZ from
our U:BEE Brand
Ambassador
5
The State of Global
Conservation
7-9
The Impact of Gen Z on
Wildlife Conservation
11
Wildlife Warriors: Young
Conservation Heroes
15
Conservation Success
Stories: Wildlife Bouncing
Back
17-19
Celebrities Doing Their
Part: Leonardo di Caprio,
Prince William and more...
20
Internationa Tiger Day:
Why it Matters
21
Become a Wildlife
Champion: Easy Actions
to Take Now.
Issue no. 13 / July 2025 / buzz@ubee.org.uk / www.ubee.org.uk

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WELCOME!
HI AND WELCOME
TO BUZZ!
We’re excited to bring you this special issue,
focused on one of the most urgent topics of
our time—wildlife conservation. Your feedback
continues to inspire us, and it’s amazing to see
so many of you getting involved in global
causes and making positive changes.
As summer unfolds, we’re turning our
attention to the natural world. From
conservation victories to endangered species,
this issue will explore how small actions can
lead to big results in protecting our planet’s
most vulnerable creatures. With Gen Z leading
the charge on environmental activism, there’s
never been a better time to get involved in
safeguarding our wildlife and our planet.
Check out our stunning photo spreads of
endangered species and practical tips in the
What Can You Do? section. Plus, we’re
covering global events like International Tiger
Day and showing how your everyday actions
can make a difference.
Keep your creativity alive, stay connected to
the planet, and share your stories with us.
Together, we can be the generation that
makes a lasting impact on wildlife
conservation!
Thanks for being part of the BUZZ community!
EMMALINE O'TOOLE
U:BEE BRAND AMBASSADOR
3

Wildlife Under Threat:
THE STATE OF
GLOBAL
CONSERVATION
BY MARK EVE
Wildlife Under Threat: The State of Global
Conservation
Wildlife conservation has become one of
the most pressing issues of our time. Across
the world, species are disappearing at an
alarming rate, and habitats are being
destroyed faster than they can be restored.
As young people involved in the Duke of
Edinburgh Award (DofE), you are part of a
generation that has the power to make a
difference in protecting our planet’s
incredible biodiversity.
Currently, over 1 million species are at risk of
extinction due to human activity.
Deforestation, climate change, pollution,
and illegal poaching are driving factors
behind this crisis. Iconic animals like tigers,
elephants, and polar bears are on the brink
of extinction, while lesser-known species
like amphibians and insects are
disappearing without a trace. The loss of
biodiversity not only affects wildlife but also
disrupts ecosystems that humans rely on
for food, water, and clean air.
Key conservation efforts are underway,
but they require global collaboration
and action. Organisations like the World
Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Greenpeace
are working tirelessly to protect
endangered species and restore
habitats. In 2022, conservationists
celebrated victories like the increase in
giant panda populations and the
recovery of humpback whales, but
much more work needs to be done to
protect other species from disappearing
forever.
Deforestation is another major
challenge, with forests—home to 80% of
Earth's terrestrial species**—being
cleared for agriculture and urban
development. The Amazon rainforest
alone, often referred to as the “lungs of
the Earth,” is losing an area the size of a
football field every minute. If we
continue at this rate, entire ecosystems
could collapse.
As DofE participants, you have the
unique opportunity to contribute to
conservation through volunteering,
advocacy, and awareness campaigns.
By choosing to support wildlife
charities, participating in tree-planting
initiatives, or reducing your own
environmental footprint, you can be
part of the solution.
Wildlife conservation isn’t just about
saving animals—it’s about protecting
the balance of life on Earth. Your
actions today can help ensure a future
where wildlife thrives. Let’s make a
difference together!
5

TAN Meringue

Gen Z:
THE IMPACT OF
GEN Z ON
WILDLIFE
CONSERVATION
BY SANDRA ELLIOT
Generation Z is leading the way in
global conservation efforts, using
social media, activism, and volunteer
work to create real change for the
planet. As DofE participants, you’re
part of this conservation generation,
capable of making a significant impact
on the future of our environment.
Social media platforms like Instagram,
TikTok, and Twitter are powerful tools
for raising awareness about
conservation issues. Young activists are
using these platforms to amplify their
voices, share petitions, and educate
their peers about endangered species,
climate change, and habitat
destruction. With just a few clicks, you
can connect with global movements
like the **World Wildlife Fund (WWF)**
and **Greenpeace**, spreading the
word and gathering support for vital
conservation initiatives.
Take, for example, Greta Thunberg, the
Swedish activist who sparked a
worldwide climate movement with her
school strike for climate action. Or
Autumn Peltier a young Canadian
Indigenous water advocate who fights
for clean water rights and
environmental protection. Closer to
home, the UK’s Bella Lack is an
ambassador for the Born Free
Foundation, using her platform to raise
awareness about wildlife conservation
and animal welfare. These young
leaders are proving that age is no
barrier when it comes to making a
difference.
7

Gen Z:
THE
CONSERVATION
GENERATION
BY SANDRA ELLIOT
Getting involved in conservation
doesn’t require you to be an activist on
the global stage—you can start small
and make a big impact. Volunteer for
local environmental organizations,
participate in wildlife surveys, or join
clean-up initiatives in your community.
You can also support global
organizations like WWF and
Greenpeace by fundraising, sharing
their campaigns online, or even
signing up for their youth programs.
As a DofE participant, you’re already
building leadership skills and a sense
of responsibility. By stepping up for
conservation, you’re not just protecting
wildlife—you’re shaping the future of
our planet. Let’s make Gen Z the
generation that safeguards the Earth
for generations to come.
9

Wildlife Warriors: Young
Conservation Heroes
Meet three inspiring young
environmentalists who are proving that
age is no barrier to making a real impact
on wildlife conservation.
Ella Holmes (17)** from the UK is passionate
about protecting endangered species. She
started her own online campaign, ‘Save Our
Species’, raising awareness about the plight
of endangered animals like the orangutan
and the snow leopard. Her advice to other
young people: “Start small. Whether it’s
sharing posts, attending rallies, or
fundraising, every action helps. Don’t
underestimate the power of your voice.”
Liam Parker (19), a marine conservationist
from Australia, is dedicated to saving our
oceans. He volunteers with ‘Ocean
Guardians’, an organization focused on
protecting marine life from plastic
pollution. Liam organises beach clean-ups
and spreads awareness through social
media. “Seeing the direct impact of
pollution on marine animals motivates me
to keep going. If you love nature, find a
cause you care about and commit to it,” he
says.
Aisha Khan (16) from Kenya is an
advocate for protecting elephants and
rhinos from poaching. She works with
local conservation groups to educate
communities about wildlife protection.
Aisha's advice for her peers: “Educate
yourself, then educate others. Passion
comes from knowledge, and once you
understand the issues, you’ll be driven
to make a difference.”
These young heroes are proof that you
don’t need to be a seasoned activist to
create change. Whether it’s starting a
campaign, volunteering, or using your
social media to raise awareness, you too
can be a wildlife warrior. Let their
stories inspire you to take action and
protect the world’s wildlife!
11

131
3

CONSERVATION
SUCCESS
STORIES: WILDLIFE
BOUNCING BACK
BY TOBY SPENCER
Amidst the challenges facing wildlife
conservation, there have been several
uplifting success stories in the past
year that show how global efforts are
making a real difference.
One of the most celebrated victories is
the recovery of the giant panda. Once
on the brink of extinction, these
beloved animals were removed from
the endangered species list in 2021,
thanks to decades of dedicated
conservation efforts in China, including
reforestation and strict anti-poaching
laws. Their recovery is a powerful
reminder of what can be achieved
when governments, communities, and
conservation groups work together.
Another remarkable success is the
reforestation project in the Atlantic
Forest of Brazil. Over the last decade,
millions of trees have been planted,
restoring crucial habitats for countless
species, including jaguars, toucans,
and tamarins. This project showcases
how rewilding efforts can revive entire
ecosystems and bring back
endangered species.
GLOBAL EVENTS
IN 2025
Global events like Earth Day (April 22)
have also seen increasing participation,
with millions of young people taking
part in climate strikes, clean-up efforts,
and online campaigns to support
wildlife conservation. These events are a
chance to raise awareness and
celebrate the progress being made to
protect our planet.
Conservation conferences, such as the
International Union for Conservation of
Nature (IUCN), continue to bring
experts together to address pressing
wildlife issues, foster collaboration, and
push forward innovative solutions.
These success stories prove that while
the challenges are great, progress is
being made. Let them inspire you to get
involved and help create more
conservation victories in the future!
15

Wildlife Conservation in
Pop Culture
CELEBRITIES
DOING THEIR
PART
BY HELEN DAVIES
In today’s world, pop culture has a
powerful influence, especially on younger
generations like Gen Z. With millions of
followers on social media, celebrities and
influencers are using their platforms to
raise awareness about wildlife
conservation and inspire action. Let’s take
a look at some notable figures who are
making a difference for the planet.
Leonardo DiCaprio has long been a
champion for environmental causes.
Through his Leonardo DiCaprio
Foundation, he supports projects that
protect endangered species, conserve
biodiversity, and combat climate change.
His documentaries, like *Before the
Flood*, have brought crucial
environmental issues into the public eye,
inspiring millions to take action.
Billie Eilish, known for her activism
alongside her music, has been
outspoken about the importance of
saving the planet. She has encouraged
her fans to support conservation efforts
and even partnered with organizations
like Reverb to make her world tours
eco-friendly. By advocating for
sustainable fashion and animal rights,
she’s helping to shape the way Gen Z
thinks about the environment.
The Prince of Wales (Prince William), a
prominent conservation advocate,
founded the Earthshot Prize—an
initiative to reward innovative solutions
that protect nature and combat climate
change. Through his work with
organizations like Tusk Trust, Prince
William has raised awareness about the
poaching crisis and the urgent need to
protect Africa’s wildlife.
17

Wildlife Conservation in
Pop Culture
Pop culture plays a significant role in
shaping environmental awareness among
Gen Z. Celebrities like DiCaprio, Eilish, and
Prince William serve as role models, using
their fame to highlight critical
conservation issues. They connect with
young audiences in ways that traditional
organisations might not, making complex
topics like biodiversity loss and climate
change more relatable and accessible.
When celebrities speak out about
conservation, it sparks conversations and
encourages their fans to get involved. This
ripple effect is crucial in building a
generation that cares about the
environment. As a DofE participant, you
can join this movement by following these
celebrities' initiatives and using your own
voice to advocate for wildlife conservation.
The more we engage, the bigger the
impact we can make!
Quick Quiz:
Test Your Conservation Knowledge!
1. Which animal was recently removed from the
endangered species list?
a) Bengal Tiger
b) Giant Panda
c) Blue Whale
d) Snow Leopard
2. What percentage of the Earth's species are found
in rainforests?
a) 50%
b) 10%
c) 80%
d) 25%
3. What is the main cause of marine life dying due
to human activity?
a) Overfishing
b) Plastic pollution
c) Climate change
d) Oil spills
4. Which famous actor founded a foundation
focused on protecting endangered species?
a) Leonardo DiCaprio
b) Emma Watson
c) Robert Downey Jr.
d) Chris Hemsworth
Answer: a) Leonardo DiCaprio
5. How much of the world's oxygen is produced by
the Amazon rainforest?
a) 10%
b) 20%
c) 50%
d) 5%
How did you do? Whether you got them all right or
learned something new, you’re already on the path
to becoming a wildlife conservation champion!
Answers: 1b / 2a / 3b / 4a / 5b
19

INTERNATIONAL
TIGER DAY: WHY IT
MATTERS
BY JADE WINTER
Celebrated every year on July 29,
International Tiger Day raises awareness
about the urgent need to protect tigers,
one of the world’s most iconic but
endangered species.
With fewer than 4,000 tigers left in the
wild, this day serves as a reminder of the
critical conservation efforts required to
prevent their extinction.
As a DofE participant, you can join the fight
to save tigers by raising awareness on
social media, supporting conservation
organizations, or participating in wildlife
events. Together, we can protect these
magnificent creatures for future
generations. Let’s make every day a tigersaving
day!
Tigers face numerous threats, including
habitat loss, illegal poaching, and conflicts
with humans. Deforestation and urban
expansion have reduced their natural
habitat by 95%, forcing them into smaller,
fragmented areas. Poaching for their skins
and body parts further decimates tiger
populations.
International Tiger Day aims to inspire
people across the globe to support tiger
conservation efforts. Organizations like the
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Global
Tiger Forum work tirelessly to restore tiger
habitats, prevent poaching, and raise
public awareness. Their efforts have seen
success—some tiger populations have
stabilized and even grown in countries like
India and Nepal.

BECOME A WILDLIFE
CHAMPION: EASY
ACTIONS TO TAKE
NOW
BY EMMALINE O’TOOLE
Wildlife conservation isn’t just for
scientists and activists—you can make a
difference right now! By taking small,
practical steps, you can help protect
endangered species and preserve our
planet’s ecosystems.
Start by reducing plastic in your daily life.
Single-use plastics like straws and bags
harm marine life, so switch to reusable
alternatives. Every small action counts!
Next, support ethical products. When
shopping, look for brands that prioritize
sustainability and fair trade. This ensures
that your purchases aren’t contributing
to deforestation, animal cruelty, or
habitat destruction.
You can also volunteer your time.
Whether it’s joining a local beach cleanup,
planting trees, or helping wildlife
organiSations, your efforts directly
impact conservation.
Take a moment to reflect on your
current habits by taking our ecofootprint
quiz**. This will help you
identify areas where you can make
more eco-friendly choices. Are you
conserving energy? Recycling? Avoiding
fast fashion?
Lastly, raise awareness by participating
in our social media challenge. Post
about conservation efforts, share facts
about endangered species, and use
hashtags like **#SaveTheWild** and
**#GenZforNature** to inspire your
friends to take action.
Remember, every small change you
make adds up to a big difference for
wildlife and the planet!
21

READY TO TAKE YOUR
LEARNING EVEN FURTHER?
Great job on subscribing to a UBEE Online Course for
your DofE Award! You're already on the path to
learning something new and valuable.
If you're enjoying the course, why not explore some
of the other options UBEE offers? Whether you want
to deepen your knowledge in your current subject
or try something entirely different, there’s a course
that could be a perfect fit.
Adding another course can help you diversify your
skills and make your DofE experience even more
fulfilling. Take a look and see what else might catch
your interest—you never know what new passion
you might discover!

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
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Issue #13 / April 2025 / buzz@ubee.org.uk / www.ubee.org.uk