Nature Conscious
Tourism Initiative

The Nature Conscious Tourism Initiative (NCTI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Nessie O’Neil to support wildlife conservation in places where tourism and human activity have a direct impact on animals and their habitats.

NCTI originally focused on helping conservation-minded tourism organizations improve their outreach and visibility. Over time, that work expanded into direct conservation support, public education, and wildlife research.

Today, much of NCTI’s work centers on the critically endangered pygmy raccoon (Procyon pygmaeus) of Cozumel, Mexico. O’Neil, a graduate student in biology at Miami University, conducts research on pygmy raccoon behavior, human–wildlife interactions, and the effects of tourism on the species. NCTI helps fund that research while also supporting local rescue, veterinary care, rehabilitation, and other direct welfare and conservation efforts for pygmy raccoons on Cozumel.

NCTI also continues to support conservation organizations through educational resources, communications assistance, and limited website guidance. The organization’s work is guided by a practical goal to use research, funding, education, and collaboration to improve outcomes for wildlife and the people working to protect it.