The team behind the Caring For Conservation Fund consists of father Dr. Michael Riffel and son Tom Riffel. Driven by a shared passion for nature conservation and ecology, the Riffels also focus on a sustainable approach within the organization. Dr. Michael Riffel brings his extensive experience and deep understanding of ecological relationships, while Tom Riffel drives nature conservation forward with fresh ideas and modern knowledge. Together they combine their strengths to contribute to conservation in the best possible way.
Find out more about the backgrounds, careers and successes of the two founders in the following paragraphs.
Dr. Michael Riffel
With passion and conviction
In 2014, Michael Riffel founded Luambe Conservation Ltd. in Zambia, focusing on ecotourism and operating Luambe Safari Camp in Zambia’s Luambe National Park.
Born and educated in Bruchsal, North Baden, Michael Riffel was actively involved in the German Youth Association for Nature Observation (DJN) during his youth, where he engaged with local flora, fauna, and conservation. Pursuing biology in university was a natural progression.
After completing his studies at Heidelberg University and obtaining a doctorate in zoology, he founded RIFCON GmbH in 2000, which now employs around 200 scientists from various disciplines.
RIFCON GmbH primarily focuses on implementing national and European laws related to consumer protection, environmental protection, and nature conservation. Their work includes chemical registration, particularly pesticides, scientific literature research, ecological assessments, sustainability consulting, and preparing species protection reports.
RIFCON GmbH is Europe’s leading provider of GLP studies involving wild birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. The company has multiple locations in Germany and permanent staff in Italy and Spain. More information about RIFCON GmbH can be found on the company’s website.
In 2014, Dr. Riffel founded Luambe Conservation Ltd. in Zambia, focusing on ecotourism and operating Luambe Safari Camp in Zambia’s Luambe National Park.
The establishment and operation of the Safari Camp exposed Dr. Riffel to various, sometimes significant challenges facing the small national park, ultimately leading to the founding of C4C Fund gGmbH.
In 2021, Michael and his son Tom founded the Zambian nonprofit organization Nsanga Conservation Zambia Ltd., enabling them to conduct their own conservation and research efforts in Zambia.
Tom Riffel
Motivated by his education in ecology and conservation, Tom focuses on advancing conservation efforts and research in Zambia, particularly in Luambe National Park.
From an early age, Tom shared in his father’s passion for animals and nature. During his childhood, he traveled with his family to various national parks and protected areas worldwide, cultivating a deep interest not only in plants and animals but also in their conservation.
After completing his secondary education, Tom embarked on a journey to Zambia, where he gained insights into the safari industry and prevalent conservation issues as an intern in various safari camps. The following year, he completed a FGASA-accredited Field Guide training in South Africa and Botswana, subsequently working in safari camps across different national parks in Zambia.
In Germany, Tom contributed to various projects at RIFCON GmbH, acquiring a range of field biological techniques such as telemetry of mammals and reptiles, as well as bird ringing as part of various field studies.
In 2019, Tom pursued a degree in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science at the University of Suffolk in England, where he developed a strong interest in ornithology.
Additionally, in 2020, Tom joined the board of Luambe Conservation Ltd. Motivated by his scientific training, Tom actively promotes research and conservation efforts in Zambia, particularly within Luambe National Park. Through the establishment of C4C and Nsanga Conservation Zambia,, a Zambian nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation and research, Tom has the unique opportunity to coordinate various conservation activities.
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