Alison Ashworth

Alison Ashworth, 19 from the United Kingdom is a student environmental studies and will be working with Biosfera’s turtle experts into the population of Green Turtles on San Pedro beach and the effects of increasing tourism on the health and wellbeing of the animals.

From watching nature documentaries as a child to studying climate change more comprehensively in her degree, Alison has always been fascinated by the causes of the current climate crisis and how it can be resolved.
Her academic journey has exposed her to various perspectives on global climate issues and potential solutions, fueling her determination to contribute positively to the cause. Whether through research or campaigning for governments and businesses, Alison is committed to making a difference in the fight against climate change.
One person who greatly inspired Alison is Wayne Dixon, an environmental activist she had the pleasure of meeting. Wayne's four-year endeavor of walking around the entire UK coastline, picking up litter, and raising awareness showcased the impact one individual can have.

Eager to broaden her horizons and gain hands-on experience, Alison sees the Darwin leadership program as a transformative opportunity. The chance to witness environmental changes first-hand and participate in research collection aligns perfectly with her goals.

A strong team player with excellent communication skills, Alison enjoys challenges and is passionate about scientific investigations. She relishes the idea of exploring new environments and meeting like-minded individuals through the program.
LOCATION: Cape Verde AREA OF STUDY: Turtles
NATIONALITY: UK SPONSOR: DHCF
FILMMAKER: Annie (Arnbjørg Aagesen)
START DATE: 12th September
END DATE: 19th September
LOCATION: Cape Verde
END POINT: UK
AREA OF STUDY: Turtles
SPONSOR: DHCF
FILMMAKER: Annie (Arnbjørg Aagesen)
Area of Study: sea turtles

My project was to work with Biosfera in producing the first database for green turtles, using the method of photo-identification. This was done to monitor the effects of global warming, poaching and the potential consequences of artificial feeding on the green turtle (Chelonia mydas).

The green turtles in Sao Vicente do not come here to lay their eggs but instead come here to feed before returning to mainland West Africa. However, local fishermen have begun feeding the turtles to attract them for tourists, resulting in an increase in both turtle numbers and the duration of their stay.

Biosfera’s database will allow them to discover how many green turtles are coming to Sao Vicente, how their diet and ecology change over time, and what changes may need to be applied to conserve them.

To collect information for the database, we carried out four key assessments: identification-tagging, DNA sampling, shell measurements, and capturing detailed facial photographs of both sides of the turtle’s face.

These facial photographs are used to produce a unique ‘’fingerprint’’ in the database software. This will enable Biosfera to recognise turtles already in the database, observing how they have changed. It will also allow new individuals to be uploaded to the system. Overall, the database will allow Biosfera to continuously update the status of the green turtles in Sao Vicente, with the findings they obtain.

Project Films

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Project Reports

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This Project Was Made Possible By: Don hanson charitable foundation 

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