Lovasoa Esperance Razafindravony
In Madagascar, where biodiversity loss and societal challenges are deeply tangled, the need for impactful conservation education has never been greater. Integrating effective environmental education (EE) with consistent evaluation is essential to drive meaningful outcomes and support long-term sustainability goals.
Lemur story reading session at Centre ValBio. ©Environmental Education Team of Centre ValBio.
The Centre ValBio (CVB) is one of Madagascar’s oldest and most prominent organizations in EE. Established in 2003, its roots date back to an education program launched during the creation of Ranomafana National Park (1987–1991). Early efforts included school-based sessions, health and hygiene awareness campaigns, and initiatives to promote income-generating activities for local communities. While past evaluations were conducted, a more comprehensive analysis is needed to better understand long-term impacts and refine future interventions.
By leveraging a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, this project aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice in environmental education. Through a deeper understanding of behavior change and its drivers, it will provide actionable strategies to enhance pro-environmental practices among communities near Ranomafana National Park. Ultimately, this initiative aspires to create a replicable model that not only strengthens conservation efforts but also empowers local communities to adopt sustainable lifestyles, ensuring a harmonious balance between people and nature.