More than 40 years in the Amazon

Reaping conservation results from decades of sowing

Within six years after its creation in 1961 as an international conservation organization, WWF began a long and rich history of involvement in the Amazon.

Over the years, WWF has expanded from its site-based and focussed research projects to include landscape-wide research and scientific analyses, protected areas, capacity-building, policy development and reform, environmental education, and creation of alternative sources of income for local communities.

WWF deploys its presence in the region

In the early days, WWF's technical support for projects in Latin America and the Caribbean  was mainly located in Washington, D.C. In 1994, a decentralization process deployed and expanded WWF's presence in Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and the Guianas. The majority of WWF's technical staff is now located in these offices, with a cadre of multi-disciplinary experts and administrative support continuing to serve in Washington.

Long-term studies and partnerships

In 1978, a long-term WWF project began in the Brazilian Amazon, called the Minimum Critical Size – a project aimed at determining the effect of deforestation and fragmentation in a large tropical forest. Today, that project continues under the auspices of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Other early projects included 10 years of support to a long-term research on fishes, floodplains and forests.

WWF is working with a range of partners on conservation in the Amazon – from governments, communities, local NGO´s to other international organizations, e.g. WWF and USAID have been partners in Brazil for more than 16 years, looking into alternative land-use systems for the Brazilian Amazon.

WWF achievements over the years…

Some of the many positive impacts achieved include the institutional strengthening of some of the most professional, capable, and credible NGOs working in the region; the formulation, advocacy, and implementation of successful public policies; and the development and dissemination of knowledge on conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

…in Brazil

In Rondônia, where rubber-tappers are strong advocates for conservation, WWF has helped establish extractive reserves where rubber-tappers are preventing conversion of the forest to less sustainable uses.

WWF is working with the environmentally progressive state of Acre to implement state-wide ecological zoning. An important component of the process has been WWF's work to identify potential new protected areas, extractive reserves, and indigenous reserves.
Find out more about WWF-Brazil

…in Peru

In Peru, WWF's first major initiative was the creation of Manu National Park. Expeditions led by scientists in search of new animal and plant species drew the attention of the Peruvian government to the need to set up the area as a reserve. WWF support to the Park continues today.

In 2005, WWF contributed to the establishment of the biggest natural protected area of Peru, the Alto Purus National Park. Other protected areas that have received WWF support and involvement include Purús, Amarakaeri, Bahuaja Sonene, Abanico de Pastaza, and Pacaya Samiria.

WWF also supported the Forest and Wildlife Law in 2002 and made significant contributions for responsible forest management (CEDEFOR project).
Find out more about WWF-Peru

…in Bolivia

In Bolivia, WWF first supported a study on caiman propagation in 1967 and was involved in the establishment of the Pilon Lajas National Park in 1976. In following years, the organization played a key role in the establishment and/or implementation of Amboró National Park, Manuripi National Wildlife Reserve and Carrasco National Park.

WWF also supported the development of certified forestry and forest management, which is ongoing today.
Find out more about WWF-Bolivia

WWF has played a unique role in the conservation of the Amazon region for over 40 years, developing scientific knowledge, experience, and key partnerships with local, regional, and international players. By delivering tangible, significant results, WWF has laid the groundwork for delivering even greater results in the years ahead.

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