Conservation is as much about helping people as it is about wildlife. Conservationists build schools and health centers, they help women gain independence by empowering them to earn their own income, they plant trees, restore habitat that has been scorched or bulldozed, and they educate the next generation about the importance of nature.

Wildlife conservation would not be possible without working with local people and investing in their well-being. Working closely with local people cements trust between communities and conservationists, which reduces conflict between people and wildlife. In this talk, Tommy will emphasize the social and economic values of conservation, in addition to its ecological importance, demonstrating that conservation is a win-win for both wildlife and people.