Growing trees with farmers in Argentina

Why this project?

Misiones, Argentina, is home to the largest remaining section of the Interior Atlantic Forest. This biodiverse region shelters one of the most significant jaguar populations, with approximately 90 individuals. However, nearly half of the original forest remains at risk, fragmented by plantations and grazing lands.

Our restoration efforts in this region aim to transform agricultural landscapes and reconnect vital ecosystems. By partnering with 49 small-scale farmers, we are converting farmland into forested corridors, linking the Yabotí Biosphere Reserve with the Piñalito and Cruce Caballero Provincial Parks. This transformation helps restore degraded landscapes and create essential forest patches to support wildlife movement and biodiversity.

Fighting climate change through reforestation

Human agricultural expansion has led to the destruction of approximately one-third of the world's forests, an area equivalent to twice the size of the United States. The urgency for targeted action is evident, especially when considering that only 10 countries are custodians of 70% of the remaining global forests.

As we envision a future focused on nurturing nature, businesses are becoming more aware of the opportunities for combating climate change through landscape restoration. Restoring landscapes, particularly through nature-based solutions like reforestation, holds immense potential, capable of delivering up to one-third of the necessary reductions in carbon emissions essential for achieving global emission targets. These approaches represent some of the most effective remedies available against human-caused emissions.

The augmentation of tree canopy coverage plays a pivotal role in providing the planet with the necessary tools to manage the carbon dioxide discharged into the atmosphere due to human activities. This significance is particularly pronounced in tropical regions, where canopy cover can potentially reach 100%.

Empowering farmers

This project demonstrates how smallholder farmers can play a vital role in forest restoration and conservation. By adopting sustainable agroforestry practices, they can cultivate yerba mate more efficiently while helping to restore crucial forest connections for species like the jaguar.

Water scarcity is a major challenge for many farming families in this region. While natural springs exist, farmers often lack the infrastructure to transport clean water to their crops. Many rely on exposed or poorly maintained pumps that are vulnerable to damage. Farmers are provided with the materials and expertise to build durable water collection and storage systems. This includes constructing reinforced structures with bricks and gravel to protect water sources, as well as installing pipelines and storage tanks to supply both household and irrigation needs.

Each participating farmer dedicates 4 hectares of their land to forest restoration. In return, they receive essential resources, technical training, and ongoing support in agroforestry and sustainable land management. Additionally, they are assisted in developing alternative income streams, such as horticulture or livestock farming, while also benefiting from improved water access and infrastructure.

By combining ecological restoration with community empowerment, this initiative not only rebuilds forests but also enhances livelihoods—ensuring a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.