Body Shop Invests £2m In ‘Bio Bridges’ Scheme To Protect Rainforest Endangered Species

The Body Shop launched a £2m scheme to create 10 new ‘bio bridge’ that connects areas of rainforest in order to help save its wildlife. The company is working closely with conservationists in Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia on a global scheme that aims to set up by 2020, 10 corridors connecting isolated and endangered and plant species to allow them to breed and thrive.

In addition to helping species such as orangutans, tigers, monkeys, water monitor lizards, tapirs, sun bears and muntjac deer, the cosmetic company’s World Bio-Bridges Mission includes engaging local communities to support the long-term protection of the habitat and help them develop more sustainable ways of life.

A Body Shop spokesperson said it will be looking into identifying new natural ingredients from these wildlife hotspots in order to create sustainable sources and viable alternatives to logging and poaching for the local communities. Thanks to proceeds from the sale of limited edition products, the Body Shop offers funding to conservation groups and invites them to apply.

The Body Shop’s international director of corporate responsibility and campaigns, Christopher Davis, said: “Through protecting and regenerating land, working with local communities and seeking partnerships with civil and state organisation around the world, the World Bio-Bridges Mission can make a substantial difference to some of the planet's richest and most diverse areas.”