Community Environmental Conservation Promoter

Are you passionate about protecting the planet and inspiring future generations to do the same? Communities across Panama are seeking support to promote environmental education and conservation practices.

Panama is facing severe environmental degradation driven by deforestation, poor solid waste management, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss; compounded by extreme weather events. Economic development has led to increased exploitation of natural resources and the expansion of agriculture into sensitive ecosystems, threatening the public’s health and Panama’s natural heritage. Despite Panama’s commitment to global sustainability efforts, communities need additional support to implement basic conservation practices.

As a Community Environmental Conservation Promoter, you will collaborate with community members to improve solid waste management, reforestation, and the use of eco-friendly technologies—efforts that will protect the country’s ecosystems and support national sustainable development strategies. Together, you will foster a generation committed to conservation and long-term environmental stewardship, ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future.

Associate degree in any field and at least two years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).
OR
Bachelor's degree in any field.
OR
High school diploma or GED and four years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).

Volunteers will live in a mix of rural and semi-urban communities ranging from approximately 150 to 5,000 people. Housing will likely include simple concrete block walls with cement or tile floors and a corrugated tin roof. Communities will generally have basic utilities and infrastructure, including cell phone signal, treatable water, and electricity, although the reliability of these services may vary. Volunteers must live with a host family during their first 3-4 months of service, after which they may opt to move into independent housing.

Gain hands-on experience in environmental education and natural resource management while working directly with communities and government partners to protect ecosystems.
Build Spanish language and project management skills by collaborating with local organizations, schools, and government agencies.
Immerse yourself in Panama’s rich culture and uniquely biodiverse natural heritage.

Facilitate community environmental assessments to identify local conservation needs and develop projects that address these priorities.
Plan and facilitate environmental education clubs and camps for youth to build awareness and leadership skills.
Facilitate hands-on activities in schools such as gardens, tree planting, recycling, or waste management initiatives.
Organize and support community clean-ups and recycling events to strengthen local capacity.
Train and guide community members to establish and maintain tree nurseries and reforestation efforts.
Facilitate workshops on constructing and using fuel-efficient stoves to reduce deforestation.
Mentor youth and community groups to sustain eco-friendly practices and environmental leadership.
You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as English conversation clubs and team sports.

As a Community Environmental Conservation Promoter, you will be trained to promote environmental education and facilitate community-based conservation activities. Peace Corps/Panama will teach you Spanish to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community.

After 10 weeks of training, you will move to a rural or semi-urban community where you will collaborate with schools, local organizations, and community members. You will work with the community to assess the local needs and develop solutions based on locally appropriate environmental conservation practices.