Peter Apell

Peter Apell is a conservationist, biodiversity expert, and sustainable development practitioner with over 20 years of experience in environmental management, ecosystem restoration, and community-driven conservation. As Programs Director at theJane Goodall Institute (JGI) Uganda, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives that bridge science, policy, and grassroots action to safeguard biodiversity and enhance ecological resilience.

Deeply inspired by the visionary work of Dr Jane Goodall, Apell embodies her belief that"every individual makes a difference" and that "We are part of the natural world and we depend on it for our very existence." He is passionate about fostering a new generation of environmental stewards, ensuring that conservation is inclusive, community-led, and rooted in both scientific innovation and traditional ecological wisdom.

Apell’s expertise lies at the dynamic intersection of conservation, sustainable development, and community empowerment, with a strong focus on human-wildlife coexistence, ecological restoration, and integrated land management. An enthusiastic advocate for blending traditional ecological knowledge with cutting-edge environmental science, he has collaborated extensively with both local communities and international partners to design and implement large-scale conservation programs focused on conservation of chimpanzees and their habitat in Uganda. His work has been featured in BBC Natural World andNational Geographic Channel documentaries, amplifying the urgency of restoring and protecting nature. And his contributions to biodiversity conservation have earned him international recognition, including the prestigious UN Ian RedmondConservation Award. This accolade celebrates his dedication to protecting great apes, restoring critical ecosystems, and advancing community-driven conservation initiatives.

With a diverse background in wildlife medicine, conservation economics, and sustainable development, Dr Apell is not just a scientist—he is a thought leader who believes that conservation success is rooted in reciprocity between people and nature, where ecosystems are restored not only for biodiversity but also for restoring the fabric of life itself—one that connects communities, traditions, and ecosystems. 

‍