Amazon conservation project in Peru

Environment

Since 2005, the project partners have welcomed volunteers from around the globe, creating a positive impact on the management of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Today, the volunteer programme is recognised by local communities, local government and the protected area management, as a vital way of supporting conservation research and developing sustainable initiatives. In 2012, to celebrate this, the project was awarded the Rainforest Alliance (RA) verification mark for high standards of sustainability.

The tireless work of both the volunteers and the project staff has truly astounding results. The project is responsible for the collection of a vast amount of data, which is vital in the understanding of the species that call this magnificent jungle home. Volunteers on this project encounter a staggering wealth of species, including jaguar, sloths, parrots, and many species of monkey. Making it easier for the area's indigenous communities to live alongside its species of wildlife is one of the main aims of this project. The work carried out is essential for the well-being of both the amazon's communities and animals.

Community

The overall aim of this project is to work against the cycle of poverty and poor resource management by local communities, that is having an adverse effect on the Manu environment. This is achieved through actively engaging with local communities to devise lifestyle solutions that are much more sustainable and do not negatively impact the natural environment. Volunteers work with staff and community members, with a view to actively changing the future for the better, through implementing sustainable initiatives.

This project achieves its aims through creating sustainable agriculture and timber and carbon alternatives for local communities, on deforested land. This will effectively reduce the human and carbon footprint in the rainforest, and will increase the community’s well-being and enhance the region's sustainable produce. What makes this project truly unique is that it works towards the improvement of the lives of both the indigenous communities and countless species that live alongside each other.