Cool Earth is working alongside the community to develop sustainable incomes and improve nutrition. From alley-growing inga to developing fish ponds, all activities aim to help local people maintain a balanced diet and have a reliable income. Healthy people, healthy forest.
Location: Amazonas Province, Northern Peru
Extreme poverty places pressure on the forest, as community members turn to illegal logging to sell wood for an income.
Extractive industries are on the rise as land is mined for gold and other heavy metals. Not only does this cause deforestation and degradation, polluted water runs off into local river courses, harming ecosystems and health.
The movement of people from the Andes & coastal region has seen a change in traditions and ways of life in the area. Religious interventions and pressure to develop is beginning to put a strain not only on forest, but communities themselves.
The use of inga is continuing to grow and regenerate soils in the area. It’s a way forward for diversifying diets and providing families with improved food security. By supporting artisanal, small-scale cacao production and helping form market links, local farmers are working to improve the quality of crops and generate a sustainable income alongside the forest.