Boca Raton-based Florida Atlantic University recently received a Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund award. The university will use it to help with sea turtle recovery efforts and to increase understanding of these animals through public education.
The Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund distributed $1.5 million this year – and has given out more than $11 million since Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park opened.
The DWCF funds – which are awarded to non-profit environmental groups and universities – went to 97 programs in 41 countries that are focused on saving animals and habitats.
Recipients were chosen from more than 260 applications reviewed by Disney scientists, veterinarians and other animal experts.
"Our company has a commitment to the environment that dates back to Walt Disney himself," said Jerry Montgomery, senior vice president of Conservation & Environmental Sustainability for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts.
"Protecting wildlife and wild places through the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund is a key component of our mission."
