Innovative Initiative Safeguards the Amazon Rainforest and Empowers Local Communities

A Transformative Initiative in the Brazilian Amazon

In a remarkable development for environmental conservation, an innovative initiative in the Brazilian Amazon is safeguarding nearly 400,000 hectares of rainforest. This initiative is not only focused on preservation; it also aims to empower local communities and aid them in cultivating sustainable livelihoods.

Supported by Health In Harmony (HIH) and other partners, the Rio Novo community, located within the Rio Iriri Extractive Reserve, has made significant strides in overcoming previous challenges like lack of certification and inadequate infrastructure. As a result, they are now capable of bringing Brazilian fruits and nuts to both local and international markets, showcasing an impressive model of sustainable development.

Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, who is the COP30 President-Designate, highlighted the importance of cooperation, stating, "Brazil's Constitution equally binds the country to be governed in its international relations by principles that include 'cooperation among peoples for the progress of humanity.'" This core principle will guide the upcoming presidency of COP30, emphasizing the need for deep, rapid, and sustained cooperative efforts among peoples worldwide.

Historically, the Rio Novo community primarily harvested Brazil nuts and fruits for local consumption. However, they faced numerous obstacles that limited their ability to sell their products in broader markets. HIH, known locally as SAMA HIH, played a crucial role by providing essential resources, including site assessments, infrastructure support, solar-powered food dehydrators, and training in sustainable harvesting techniques, product development, and business management.

In addition, HIH collaborated with local communities and Indigenous groups, such as the Terra do Meio Network, to leverage the Food Acquisition Policy (PAA). This government initiative helps small businesses and farms sell their products for school meal programs. Despite the difficulties presented by the remote location of the mini-factory that processes these products, the community has successfully engaged with the government and navigated various challenges. As a result, they are now able to supply food to local schools.

Currently, the certified products from Rio Novo support local school meal programs and are also used by international brands like Dengo, which incorporates dehydrated nuts from Rio Novo into their chocolates. This initiative has fostered new income opportunities, enhanced nutritional standards for children living near the rivers, and played a significant role in combatting illegal logging activities. The endeavor generates approximately BRL 275,000 annually, benefiting over 500 individuals while working to protect the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.

Daniel Tiberio Luz, the Brazil Country Director for Health In Harmony, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "This initiative puts the Rio Novo community in control of their own future. With certifications and training, local families lead every step—from harvesting to sales—ensuring fair prices and sustainable resource management." Through these efforts, the community is working toward self-sufficiency while simultaneously protecting the forest for future generations.

Today, Rio Novo is producing about five tons of Brazil nuts each year and is gearing up to expand its reach into global markets. The next phase, with continued support from HIH, will concentrate on enhancing the community's independence by exploring avenues for commercializing handicrafts and seeks to renew their Food Acquisition Policy certification in the coming year.

Raímmunda Rodrigues, the plant manager at Rio Novo, expressed her gratitude, stating, "SAMA HIH's support has transformed our ability to sustain our community and protect our environment. With new certifications and infrastructure, we can access new markets while preserving the forest. It means everything to us to protect our way of life and safeguard the Amazon."

This groundbreaking project embodies the spirit of what is known as 'mutirão,' a term originating from Brazil's Indigenous peoples. It refers to a collaborative community effort to accomplish a shared task, whether that be harvesting, constructing, or providing mutual support to one another. Ambassador Corrêa do Lago described this concept as vital in the face of climate change, inviting global cooperation to join Brazil in this necessary endeavor.

Images depicting the Brazil nut production from Rio Novo are available for media use, showcasing the community's accomplishments and their commitment to sustainable practices.

About Health In Harmony

Health In Harmony (HIH) collaborates with Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities, and Afro-descendant Peoples to champion solutions for addressing climate and environmental crises. Their work impacts approximately 135,000 community members, ensuring the protection of half of the world's tropical rainforests. HIH is expanding its global footprint, partnering with various organizations to support communities residing within tropical rainforest regions. For more information, visit www.healthinharmony.org and follow them on Instagram at @healthinharmonyngo.