| About Stichting ARK |
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 Mission We, as an innovative nature organisation, we would like to show how societal changes invariably lead to new chances for nature and the landscape. We encourage people to seize these opportunities in the conviction that more room for nature in our thoughts and actions will improve the quality of life, for men and for nature.  Vision Robust, spontaneous nature is essential for plants and animals, but also for the economy and all people's well-being: green, resources and happiness!  Spontaneous nature Vast robust and dynamic nature areas where natural processes can go their own sweet way: this is what we of ARK stand for. It results in an unprecedented richness in landscapes and the accompanying flora and fauna. If interconnected, the new nature areas will create the necessary network for plants and animals to move on.  Green gold It is essential that nature is socially and economically embedded. Large nature areas can generate billions in income and offer prospects for spatial development. Projects such as mineral extraction, water management, urban development and health care will be better off with nature development. Recreation, tourism and a favourable climate for establishing businesses and institutions will bring strong local economies.  Pleasure and health Authentic nature is exciting. It offers plenty of prospects for enjoyable activities and contributes to good health. Millions of people live and work or recreate in and around nature areas and are aware of the economic and societal value of nature. The development of spontaneous, accessible nature will enhance the quality of life for many of us, especially close by urban areas.  From vision to practice Our innovative approach covers the whole field, from vision to practice. The reliability of our story is largely determined by the fact that we know how to flesh out our ideals down to the minutest detail. Strong interaction will put our visionary ideas and practical reality on a higher plane.  Catalyst ARK tries to play a mainly initiating and catalysing role at the risky early stages of many a project. Its independent position makes that ARK can fulfil this role better than many other organisations, authorities or companies. If possible at all, the pilot projects are transferred once the hard work is done.  Spontaneous nature As to nature itself, we'd rather not focus on one or another specified aim, but aim at development itself. We create conditions for spontaneous, natural processes that are typical of this area, and await the surprise.  No ownership ARK does not aspire to become an owner; it is important that, starting from their own specific interest, the present landowners take the responsibility for nature and landscape.  Resources for foreign countries We also dash to the help of supervisors of nature areas without resources, often abroad, by offering them tools (such as a herd of cattle from our Herd Fund), with which they can develop their own nature area ('we offer them a fishing rod, not fish').  Borrowed plumage Internalising ARK's aims in economic and societal partners are of vital importance to ARK's work. A project is successful only when others shine in borrowed plumage.  Nature close to your heart People must keep nature near to their hearts. Departing from this conviction, ARK involves the public and especially children very intensively in its activities. Wilderness cafes, an extensive website, a newsletter and free access to the nature areas, even beyond the trodden paths, fit in with this philosophy. Clearing away barbed wire in the new nature areas (de-fencing) can therefore be seen as a psychological activity.  Small and flexible It requires a versatile, flexible and small organisation to make the most of the dynamics of nature and society. That is why ARK does not have a conventional office but is organised in small working units to operate quickly and project-based. Working at ARK is a challenge, as is ARK's works. Self-supporting units are made organisationally independent, if at all possible, after which the cooperation is continued in web-like structures.  New problem, new opportunities In all this we apply a problem-solving approach instead of a problem-oriented attitude; opportunities instead of bottlenecks. ARK seizes the opportunities, together with a whole range of partners. |
