The emergence of the Instituto Estrela Universal (IEUNI), a nongovernmental organisation (NGO), represents a significant response to growing concerns about environmental degradation and the urgent need to promote sustainability. This movement gained momentum over the past year, reflecting an increasing awareness of the need for effective action to protect ecosystems and create sustainable alternatives.

In my 25-year career as a journalist, I have been involved in environmental movements and sustainability projects in indigenous communities. The institute arises as a response to these growing concerns, motivated by the observation that even small efforts, when combined, can lead to significant changes.

The region where the Reserva Ambiental Instituto Estrela Universal is located was destined for agrarian reform, a designation that threatened to turn primary forest into agricultural pasture and arable land. This situation, marked by a lack of oversight and incentive, reflected the enormous fragility of these natural resources in the face of rampant exploitation.

The vision that this land could become a reference center for sustainable development was crucial for mobilizing people and institutions committed to this cause. Signs of deforestation, river pollution, and the extinction of endangered species are just some of the phenomena that depict rampant exploitation in the region. This awareness generated a movement for structured actions that went beyond the often-ineffective scattered initiatives of government programs.

In this context, the emergence of the IEUNI could not have been more timely. The idea of an environmental preservation of institute began to take shape. The institution presents itself as a platform for centralizing efforts, coordinating projects that seek to promote sustainability across sectors, bringing together diverse experiences and local knowledge.

The institute, therefore, was born as a response to this growing demand, already receiving the mission to embrace this area of land with its primary forest, as a clear sign of our social and environmental responsibility. It is important to emphasize that the Instituto does not act alone. It forms partnerships with foundations, governmental, and business institutions, seeking to implement projects aimed at biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and the promotion of sustainable practices.

However, it is important to state that transformation does not occur only through large initiatives. Good examples and daily actions have the power to inspire people and communities. As professionals and citizens, it is our duty to act with responsibility and commitment, promoting sustainable practices and educating new generations about the importance of environmental preservation.

The emergence of the Instituto Estrela Universal reflects changes in social behavior towards nature and the need for a more holistic approach to solving environmental problems. It is the union of efforts, the sum of small actions with the aim of restoring our relationship with nature. With the growth of environmental awareness, we can continue this path by including more individuals in this fight.

The IEUNI is not just an entity but a hope that together we can build a more sustainable future for future generations.

André Luis Lima
Executive Director