Expanding the Natural Reserve: A Vision for Amazon Conservation

In the heart of the Amazon rainforest, IEUNI has secured 20,000 hectares as a natural reserve, safeguarding its rich biodiversity. However, our mission extends beyond this achievement. We are poised to expand our protected area to create a more significant impact on Amazon conservation.

The Amazon, known as the “lungs of the Earth,” is vital for global climate regulation and home to countless species. By acquiring additional land adjacent to our existing reserve—particularly parcels designated for agrarian reform—we aim to protect critical habitats and showcase conservation as a viable alternative to deforestation.

This document outlines our strategy for land acquisition, community engagement, and long-term management, reflecting our commitment to preserving this essential ecosystem for future generations. Join us as we work to expand our green frontier in the Amazon.

1. Identifying Priority Areas

• Map out ecologically valuable parcels adjacent to our current protected area
• Focusing on buying the land destined for explotation and/or deforestation
• Focus on lands that create wildlife corridors or protect critical habitats, protecting the access to the untouched and indigenous areas

2. Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Ensure compliance with Brazilian laws and regulations
• Engage local communities and indigenous groups for support

3. Funding Sources

• Seek grants from international conservation and preservation organizations, foundations, corporations and individuals through our system of crediting and evaluating the impact
• Explore partnerships with larger environmental NGOs
• Exploring the areas of bio economy alternatives and involving ourselves offering sustainable services in exchange to receive grants to develop conscious projects
• Crowdfunding campaigns to raise awareness and funds

4. Acquisition Process

• Work with local land trusts to establish conservation easements
• Negotiate with landowners willing to sell for conservation purposes
• Partner with government programs for potential land transfers and projects support

5. Long-term Management

• Develop a clear management plan for newly acquired lands
• Implement monitoring systems to track biodiversity and forest health
• Involve local communities in conservation efforts and sustainable livelihoods

6. Scaling Up

• Use successful acquisitions as case studies to attract more support
• Gradually expand efforts to create a larger contiguous protected area