In 1996, Chris Gordon spent two weeks in Cameroon’s Rainforests after being awarded a Millennium Teacher Fellowship. The project involved surveying biodiversity in Cameroon’s pristine forests, practical work which took him fondly back to his roots in environmental science.

On his return, the trip inspired Chris to continue working on community projects, in particular, helping to mentor people who had won funding for environment and community initiatives.

He was also pivotal in ensuring that the new Landfill Tax was used to support wider wildlife projects, resulting in millions of pounds being made available for conservation.

“I now work in learning and development for Natural England so there has definitely been a direct - if circuitous - route between the original Earthwatch expedition and my current career.”