Support the Peruaçu Communities in Coping with the Water Crisis
DONATE TO EKOS BRASIL Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Name Instituto Ekos Brasil Location: Vale do Peruaçu, Minas Gerais, Brazil (Januária, Itacarambi, and São João das Missões) Appeal Category: Community Support & Development Protected Area Management Reforestation Key Species: Rock Cavy Cougar & Mountain Lion Hoary Fox Bush Dog Giant Anteater Narrow-billed Woodcreeper Boa Constrictor Challenges And Threats: Forest fires Intense deforestation Water crisis Soil degradation Actions: • Contribute to water security and increase the availability and quality of waterin the region• Identify more sustainable income-generating activities and productionpractices aligned with the conservation of natural resources and localbiodiversity• Highlight the vital role of Indigenous communities in protecting and conservingnatural resources and biodiversity The Challenge The Brazilian Cerrado is a vast tropical savanna that covers more than 20% of the national territory and is the second-largest biome in the country. Over half of its native vegetation has been converted for agribusiness, making the region a major global supplier of soy. Scientists are increasingly concerned about how these land use changes may affect the future of the biome and its communities—especially given the Cerrado’s higher vulnerability to climate change and drought compared to other regions in Brazil. This project, led by Instituto Ekos Brasil, focuses on the Peruaçu Cluster, part of the Sertão Veredas–Peruaçu Mosaic (MSVP) in Minas Gerais. The area spans five municipalities, with a total population of 118,233 inhabitants. Located within Brazil’s Drought Polygon, the Peruaçu region faces harsh conditions such as irregular rainfall, high temperatures, and low water reserves—leading to water insecurity, social vulnerability, and rural exodus, particularly among the youth. Water scarcity is considered the most pressing issue in the region. The Mosaic lies within a watershed with a negative water balance, and the unregulated use of groundwater has intensified the crisis. Another critical challenge is the high incidence of wildfires, some of which are illegal and others characteristic of the biome, but increasingly worsened by prolonged dry periods. Despite these threats, the region plays a vital role in conserving the Cerrado’s biodiversity. The Peruaçu Caves National Park and the Peruaçu Caves Environmental Protection Area are especially important for local communities, who rely on their natural and cultural heritage as sources of income aligned with conservation. These landscapes represent not only ecological value, but also the cultural and economic resilience of traditional populations. Urgent Solutions To address the escalating climate and water crisis in the Peruaçu region, Instituto Ekos Brasil has developed a rapid-response package of nature-based, community-driven solutions that are ready for implementation in the most severely impacted areas. Their proposed interventions include: Installing rainwater harvesting cisterns to immediately improve household water access and reduce dependence on overdrawn underground sources; Creating productive home gardens with native Cerrado species to support food security and diversify income in a landscape where water is increasingly scarce; Restoring degraded springs and riparian zones to safeguard the region’s fragile water sources; Conducting on-the-ground climate risk mapping, co-created with local communities, to guide future adaptation efforts; Hosting community workshops that integrate scientific and traditional knowledge, empowering residents to become local leaders in climate resilience. These solutions are low-cost, scalable, and rooted in traditional livelihoods. With donor support, they can be launched within the first 12 months of the project, directly benefiting over 30 families and contributing to the stabilization of a vital ecosystem. Why Your Donation Matters The implementation of this project will enable these marginalized communities, who are directly affected by the impacts of climate change but play a crucial role in the conservation and stewardship of ecosystems, to not only survive with dignity but also overcome their vulnerabilities in the face of the ongoing climate and water crisis affecting the region. Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Top Accountability Effective Impact Conservation Action Heroes
Instituto Ekos Brasil
DONATE TO EKOS Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Instituto Ekos Brasil Location São Paulo, Brazil Category Community Support & Development Protected Area Management Reforestation Urgent Appeals Support the Peruaçu Communities in Coping with the Water Crisis Date Founded 2001 Website www.ekosbrasil.org Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Effective Impact About Instituto Ekos Brasil Instituto Ekos Brasil is a Brazilian non-profit organization with over 20 years of experience designing and implementing high-impact initiatives for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. They bring together technical excellence, deep territorial knowledge, and a strong network of partners to deliver lasting, nature- based solutions. Their work is rooted in the understanding that conservation and community development are inseparable. Since 2002, they have been active in northern Minas Gerais, in the heart of the Cerrado biome—one of the most biodiverse savannas on the planet and a critical ecosystem for climate regulation and water security in South America. In the region of the Peruaçu Caves National Park—a site of immense ecological and cultural significance—they supported the development of the park’s management plan and the implementation of key infrastructure. Since 2017, they have maintained a formal cooperation agreement with ICMBio (Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation)—the Brazilian federal agency responsible for managing national parks and other protected areas—to develop and implement projects both within the park and in its surrounding areas. Their initiatives promote sustainable livelihoods, strengthen community engagement, and enhance territorial resilience in a region facing increasing social and environmental pressures. Since 2020, Ekos has served as the Executive Secretariat of the Sertão Veredas Peruaçu Mosaic, a collaborative platform uniting over 40 institutions. This role enables us to strengthen regional governance and catalyze integrated actions for conservation, climate adaptation, and inclusive development across this strategic portion of the Cerrado. Their Challenges The Peruaçu River Basin, in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, is experiencing one of the most severe socio-environmental crises in the country. The region is suffering from soil degradation, advanced erosion, and acute water scarcity. Classified by Brazil’s Ministry of the Environment as an area susceptible to desertification, the basin is also labeled “highly critical” for water availability by the São Francisco River Basin Plan. Recent scientific studies show that the last four decades were the driest in the past 700 years. These extreme climatic conditions are reducing groundwater recharge and threatening the livelihoods of over 25 traditional communities—including Indigenous groups — quilombolas, veredeiras, and vazanteiras who depend on this landscape for survival. The degradation is driven by climate change, unregulated land use, and lack of environmental governance. Without urgent intervention, the region faces a future of deepening ecological collapse and social vulnerability. Their Approach Instituto Ekos Brasil has worked in the Peruaçu region for nearly 20 years, combining science, local knowledge, and inclusive governance to drive sustainable solutions. Through a formal cooperation agreement with ICMBio, Brazil’s federal agency for protected areas, Ekos supports conservation actions in the Peruaçu Caves National Park and surrounding territories. Their approach integrates: • Spring mapping and restoration of degraded water sources • Community-led conservation and environmental education • Implementation of social technologies for water access and climate adaptation • Strengthening of territorial governance, through coordination of over 40 institutions in the Sertão Veredas–Peruaçu Mosaic They believe lasting change happens when communities are empowered, science guides action, and investments focus on long-term resilience. Their work not only protects biodiversity—it sustains life, culture, and hope in one of Brazil’s most vulnerable regions. Why They Need Your Help Your donation helps us respond to the urgent and complex challenges of the Peruaçu River Basin. Despite the region’s ecological and cultural importance, it receives limited national and international investment. With your support, Instituto Ekos Brasil will: • Restore degraded springs and riparian areas vital to water security • Train and mobilize traditional communities to lead restoration and adaptation efforts • Expand conservation initiatives within and beyond protected areas • Promote nature-based solutions that regenerate landscapes and protect biodiversity Each contribution strengthens our ability to act at scale and with integrity. This is not just about protecting a place—it is about securing climate resilience, water access, and social equity in one of Brazil’s most threatened and overlooked territories.
Achieving Coexistence Between Communities and Wild Elephants
DONATE TO BELANTARA Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Name Belantara Foundation Location: South Sumatra Province, Indonesia Appeal Category: Endangered Species Community Support and Development Education Key Species: Sumatran Elephant Challenges And Threats: Conflict between communities and wild elephants Limited understanding of coexistence concepts among stakeholders Lack of economic incentives from elephant presence Actions: Build competent community groups for conflict mitigation Synergize stakeholder conservation actions for harmonious coexistence Develop elephant-safe crops with high economic value The Challenge The Padang Sugihan Landscape on the east coast of southern Sumatra spans approximately 700,000 hectares of peat swamp that has faced recurring forest fires since 1997. This critical habitat supports a Sumatran elephant herd of 100-120 individuals, representing 5-10% of the total wild elephant population remaining in Sumatra. With this population size, the Padang Sugihan elephant herd is one of the few Sumatran elephant populations with a realistic chance of long-term survival. Since 1982, the Indonesian Government’s transmigration program has gradually relocated people from Java to this area. The landscape has since transformed into a mosaic of community settlements, agricultural lands, industrial forest plantations, and oil palm estates, alongside a small conservation area in the western portion. As economic development expands through forestry and palm oil industries, combined with population growth driving increased demand for agricultural land, negative interactions between humans and wild elephants have escalated dramatically over the past decade. Wild elephants increasingly enter village areas, destroying rice fields and agricultural crops, damaging homes, and tragically causing human fatalities. If this situation continues unchecked, conservation efforts for the critically endangered Sumatran elephant will become increasingly complex. Without community support, wild elephants will continue to be viewed as agricultural pests and enemies rather than as a vital part of the ecosystem deserving protection. Urgent Solutions Creating lasting coexistence between elephant conservation and economic development requires a holistic, comprehensive, and integrated approach. The Belantara Foundation proposes establishing conditions of mutual respect that allow harmonious coexistence in the Padang Sugihan Landscape while improving community livelihoods sustainably. To achieve long-term conservation success, the following urgent activities are essential: Community Capacity Building: Enhance the skills and equipment of community-based conflict mitigation teams already established in several villages. Industry Collaboration: Work with forestry and palm oil plantation concessions to create elephant-friendly management practices. Stakeholder Awareness: Educate all landscape stakeholders about the importance of coexistence between industrial sectors, communities, and wild elephants. Environmental Education: Provide education programs for local communities, especially early childhood learners, about the ecological benefits of wild elephants. Alternative Livelihoods: Develop agricultural commodities with high economic value that elephants naturally avoid, reducing crop-raiding incidents. Why Your Donation Matters Your donation is crucial to securing the long-term survival of this critically endangered Sumatran elephant population living in an increasingly human-dominated landscape. With 100-120 individuals now fragmented into smaller groups, these elephants face unprecedented challenges that require immediate intervention. The $100,000 fundraising goal will enable the Belantara Foundation to implement comprehensive conservation activities that address both elephant protection and community needs. Your support will fund conflict mitigation teams equipped with the tools and training needed to safely manage elephant encounters. It will facilitate partnerships with industrial concessions to create wildlife corridors and safe foraging areas, reducing elephants’ need to enter agricultural lands. Beyond immediate conflict reduction, your contribution will support long-term solutions through education programs that foster appreciation for elephants among the next generation. By developing alternative crop systems that provide economic benefits without attracting elephants, communities can thrive alongside wildlife. This innovative approach transforms the narrative from conflict to coexistence, ensuring that the Padang Sugihan elephant herd not only survives but becomes a source of pride and sustainable prosperity for local communities. Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Top Accountability Effective Impact Conservation Action Heroes
Belantara Foundation
DONATE TO BELANTARA Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Belantara Foundation Location Sumatra and Kalimantan, Indonesia Category Community Support and Development Capacity Building and Training Ecosystem Restoration Education Endangered Species Scientific Research Wildlife Conservation Urgent Appeals Achieving Coexistence Between Communities and Wild Elephants Date Founded 2014 Website belantara.or.id Partner Qualifications Verified Partner Legally Constituted About Belantara Foundation Belantara Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization based in Indonesia that plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation, forest and peatland restoration, wildlife protection, and sustainable community development, particularly across the biodiverse regions of Sumatra and Kalimantan. Their mission is to support sustainable landscape management that strikes a balance between long-term economic development, environmental protection, and improved local livelihoods. Belantara collaborates with government bodies, NGOs, private companies, academia, and local communities to implement impactful, science-driven programs. In 2024, the foundation became a Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their Challenges Indonesia is home to some of the world’s most ecologically valuable forests—but these ecosystems are under immense threat. Rapid deforestation driven by agricultural expansion (especially oil palm), mining, and infrastructure development has caused large-scale habitat loss and fragmentation. Flagship species like the Sumatran tiger, orangutan, and elephant are at risk, alongside countless other native species. Illegal logging and wildlife trade exacerbate the crisis, while peatland fires contribute to biodiversity loss and carbon emissions. Human-wildlife conflict is also on the rise, as forest loss pushes animals into human settlements. Many of these issues are compounded by limited funding, weak enforcement of environmental laws, exclusion of local communities from decision-making, and the influence of political and economic interests. Climate change adds another layer of complexity, threatening to disrupt already fragile ecosystems. Their Approach Belantara Foundation addresses these challenges through innovative, multi-stakeholder initiatives that integrate conservation and community empowerment. Key programs include: Forest Restoration Project: SDGs Together!This project restores degraded forests by planting endangered and multipurpose native tree species. Since its launch in 2020, it has reforested 94 hectares within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Giam Siak Kecil–Bukit Batu through collaboration with governments, NGOs, local communities, academics, and private stakeholders. Living in HarmonyFocused on five villages in Padang Sugihan, South Sumatra, this initiative aims to reduce human-elephant conflict through the planting of elephant feed crops, establishing salt licks, guiding elephants through ecological corridors, and preventing incursions into residential areas—improving outcomes for both people and wildlife. Sumatra Peatland RestorationIn partnership with Forest Farmers Groups in Jambi Province, this project restores 93 hectares of degraded peatland using tree seedlings that offer both ecological restoration and future economic benefits to the community. Sustainable Village Forest ManagementThis program supports local communities in Riau Province to sustainably manage production forests under social forestry schemes, improving livelihoods while protecting the integrity of natural forest ecosystems. Belantara Learning SeriesA national knowledge-sharing platform offering capacity-building opportunities for university students, conservationists, researchers, government officials, journalists, and the public. In 2024 alone, over 3,000 participants across 38 provinces engaged in sessions on topics such as social forestry, biodiversity, and ecotourism. Muda Mudi Konservasi (Youth for Conservation)This youth engagement initiative connects young Indonesians with biodiversity issues through creative competitions, educational campaigns, talk shows, and events featuring conservation experts and public figures. Why They Need Your Help Belantara Foundation’s core operations are currently funded through annual private sector donations in Indonesia. However, donations received through Conservation Allies go directly to supporting the foundation’s fieldwork and community-based conservation initiatives. Your support helps: Purchase native plant seedlings for forest and peatland restoration Procure equipment for mitigating human-wildlife conflict Fund capacity-building activities for local communities Support community-led programs that promote sustainable, nature-based livelihoods These contributions directly benefit ecosystems, wildlife, and the communities who call these landscapes home.
Protect Green Spaces and Urban Wildlife
DONATE TO MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Name Malaysian Nature Society Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Appeal Category: Community Support & Development Ecosystem Restoration Reforestation Key Species: Sunda pangolin Sunda slow loris White-thighed surili Challenges And Threats: Habitat fragmentation Climate Change Inadequate Legal Protections of Nature Actions: Reforestation of Green Spaces with Local Communities Native Tree Nursery Management by Indigenous People Advocacy for Policy Reformation to Safeguard the Environment The Challenge Kuala Lumpur, located in Malaysia’s Klang Valley, has witnessed decades of urban expansion, driving economic growth at the cost of its ecosystems. Natural habitats have been fragmented, isolating wildlife populations like the Sunda Pangolin and Sunda Slow Loris, which face inbreeding risks due to limited mobility. Birds struggle to navigate fragmented green spaces, while aquatic species suffer from polluted waterways caused by industrial and residential runoff. Climate change compounds these issues, with rising temperatures, erratic weather, and longer droughts punctuated by severe storms and flooding. Vulnerable communities, including Indigenous Peoples and marginalized groups, are disproportionately affected but lack the resources to adapt. Efforts to conserve green spaces face legislative barriers, as conflicting property rights and environmental regulations hinder grassroots initiatives. Striking a balance between individual property rights and the need for sustainable, accessible green spaces has become increasingly difficult. Without action, these ecosystems—and the benefits they provide to the community—are at risk of vanishing. Urgent Solutions The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) is addressing these challenges through the Rantaian Urban Green Spaces (RUGS) initiative. This project collaborates with NGOs, government bodies, academic institutions, and Indigenous communities to restore degraded areas with native vegetation and connect green spaces. MNS emphasizes capacity-building workshops, awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy to strengthen legal protections for urban green spaces. These efforts aim to ensure walkability, sustainability, and inclusive participation across society, transforming Klang Valley into a livable, sustainable city. A key success has been engaging the Indigenous People of Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Buloh. By partnering with this community, MNS is supporting the establishment of an Indigenous-run nursery for native plants, blending traditional knowledge with conservation practices to steward urban green spaces sustainably. Why Your Donation Matters The challenges of deforestation, climate change, and legal barriers threaten Klang Valley’s ecosystems. Your donation will help MNS to implement sustainable solutions: Reforestation with Local Communities MNS is working with local communities to restore habitats and create green corridors that support wildlife, promote recreation, and mitigate climate change. Indigenous-Led Native Tree Nurseries Supporting Indigenous communities to manage tree nurseries ensures the sustainability of reforestation efforts and strengthens local economies. Policy Advocacy for Green Space Protection Your contribution will empower MNS to advocate for stronger environmental laws and constitutional amendments, safeguarding green spaces from unsustainable development. Together, we can protect and restore Klang Valley’s green spaces for future generations. Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Top Accountability Effective Impact Conservation Action Heroes
Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST)
DONATE TO NEST Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST) Location Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria Category Community Support and Development Capacity Building and Training Ecosystem Restoration Urgent Appeals None currently Date Founded 1987 Website www.nestinteractive.org Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Legally Constituted Effective Impact Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team The Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST) is a leading non-profit organization focused on sustainable development in Nigeria. NEST’s mission is to improve how people interact with the environment by working with a nationwide membership to address pressing environmental issues through targeted projects and research. NEST conducts and promotes research on the Nigerian environment, providing vital insights and raising awareness about the impact of human activities. Their projects emphasize sustainable livelihoods, especially for disadvantaged communities, and advocate for policies that support the responsible use of natural resources. NEST’s efforts include publishing research, educating the public on environmental issues, and supporting grassroots actions to foster a sustainable future. NEST’s vision is to empower people at all levels to engage sustainably with the environment, contributing to global progress in sustainable development. Their Challenges Nigeria faces a range of environmental challenges, exacerbated by limited public awareness and weak policy enforcement. The country’s abundant natural resources are often depleted due to widespread poverty, limited environmental education, and insufficient waste management. Poor farming practices, deforestation from bush burning, and illegal mining activities contribute to soil erosion, habitat loss, and land degradation. In the south, oil pollution further threatens ecosystems, while desertification and occasional droughts impact the dry regions, worsening both environmental and economic conditions. Siltation of major rivers and poorly managed dams affect water navigation and quality. Along Nigeria’s 500-mile coastline, issues like coastal erosion, habitat destruction, plastic pollution, and illegal fishing strain marine ecosystems. Additionally, inadequate environmental impact assessments for projects continue to pose risks to natural habitats across the country. Their Approach Since 1989, NEST has championed environmental protection in Nigeria, organizing annual workshops and numerous events across the country’s diverse ecosystems. These gatherings address pressing issues like climate change, sustainable forestry, and community resilience, often in collaboration with partners like universities and international organizations. NEST has been pivotal in projects that educate, advocate, and foster community-based environmental stewardship, including the Canada-Nigeria Climate Change Capacity Project and studies on Community-Based Forest Management. Recent initiatives, like the Nigeria Climate Change Response Program (2020-2025), reflect their ongoing commitment to environmental advocacy, education, and policy influence. With over 35 years of impact, NEST continues to shape Nigeria’s response to critical environmental challenges. Why They Need Your Help NEST ensures every contribution drives measurable impact on essential conservation and community projects. With a proven track record of successful, evidence-based projects, NEST actively engages local communities in landscape restoration, such as the Moringa oleifera planting initiative in Yobe State to support pastoral livelihoods. Their transparent reporting practices provide assurance that donations are directed effectively to protect Nigeria’s environment and promote sustainable development.
Environment and Rural Development Foundation (ERuDeF)
DONATE TO ERuDeF Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner ERuDeF (Environment and Rural Development Foundation) Location Cameroon Category Community Support & Development Land Purchases Capacity Building & Training Urgent Appeals Save The Great Apes and Elephants of Cameroon From Extinction Date Founded 1999 Website erudef.org Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Legally Constituted Effective Impact About ERuDeF ERuDeF (Environment and Rural Development Foundation), founded in 1999, is a leading Cameroonian nonprofit conservation organization focused on conserving biodiversity and protecting fragile ecosystems in Cameroon and across Africa. The organization prioritizes the conservation of IUCN Red List species through the creation of protected and locally conserved areas, utilizing ecosystem and landscape management approaches. ERuDeF’s work encompasses research, education, and community engagement, aimed at empowering local communities and fostering long-term environmental sustainability. They also run Cameroon’s first private biodiversity university, training future conservation leaders in nonprofit management and conservation practices. Their Challenges ERuDeF faces several significant challenges in their conservation landscapes. The regions they serve are marked by extremely low standards of living, suppressed economies, and high unemployment rates. Government bureaucracy, corruption, and poor governance, with a president in power since 1982, further complicate efforts. Key challenges include: Deforestation due to logging, land grabbing, and slash-and-burn agriculture Inbreeding and habitat fragmentation, impacting species connectivity Economic hardship and impoverished households Low environmental awareness and poor education levels Lack of market information systems to support local economies Influx of migrants and refugees from neighboring regions, including the Central African Republic, Sahel Africa, and Anglophone Cameroon Degraded soil fertility and destruction of ecosystem services Increased wildlife poaching and bushmeat sales Chronic underfunding of field projects and limited resources These challenges make conservation efforts more complex, but ERuDeF continues to work towards overcoming them through community engagement, education, and sustainable development. Their Approach ERuDeF’s conservation model is centered around functional landscapes, using both landscape- and ecosystem-based approaches. These core conservation landscapes focus on: Lebialem Highlands – Conservation of Cross River Gorillas, Nigeria-Cameroon Chimpanzees, and African Forest Elephants. Mt. Bamboutos – Restoration of ecosystems and conservation of rare birds, amphibians, and plants. Nlonako-Muanenguba Mountains – Preservation of Goliath Frogs and chimpanzees. Gulf of Guinea Islands – Marine and island biodiversity conservation. Eastern Cameroon Corridor – Conservation of Western Lowland Gorillas, Central Chimpanzees, and African Forest Elephants. Lake Chad Basin and Freshwater Landscapes – Protection of freshwater and riparian species. In each landscape, ERuDeF conducts research on key species to assess their status and distribution. They then propose conservation areas to the Cameroonian government, collaborating to establish these protected zones. To increase community involvement, ERuDeF supports sustainable livelihoods, ecosystem restoration, and environmental education. They also promote cooperative development, microcredit systems, and cottage industries to secure economic benefits for local communities. Additionally, ERuDeF emphasizes education for sustainable development, including wildlife management, protection of water catchments, soil health management, and addressing the bushmeat trade. Why They Need Your Help Donations are urgently needed to prevent the decimation of over 700 gorillas trapped in Deng Deng National Park and the Lebialem Highlands due to inbreeding and habitat destruction caused by logging, hunting, and the influx of migrants. Without immediate support, these critical populations are at risk. Your contributions will help create protected areas and ecological corridors, provide sustainable livelihoods for local communities, and support training and capacity building for indigenous groups. Donations will also fund research, publications, education initiatives, and the development of ecotourism and local conservation management systems, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Save The Great Apes And Elephants Of Cameroon From Extinction
DONATE TO ERUDEF Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Name Environment and Rural Development Foundation (ERuDeF) Location: Cameroon Appeal Category: Community Support and Development Capacity Building & Training Endangered Species Land Purchase Key Species: Cross river gorilla Western lowland gorilla Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee Central chimpanzee African forest elephant Challenges And Threats: Impoverished communities Wildlife corridor fragmentation and degradation Fragmented subpopulations of wildlife species Absence of law enforcement Actions: Create sustainable income streams for community members Create locally managed conservation areas Environmental education Promote sustainable financing The Challenge Fragmentation of wildlife subpopulations in the Eastern and Lebialem Highlands of Cameroon is leading to inbreeding and the potential local extinction of species. The Cross River gorilla, with fewer than 300 individuals remaining in the wild, is the world’s most threatened primate. Chimpanzees, forest elephants, and western lowland gorillas also face severe threats due to widespread deforestation, logging, land grabbing, and rapid urbanization. The international pet trade exacerbates the decline of these species, while the local economy’s suppression and extreme poverty drive communities to rely heavily on forest resources for survival. The lack of comprehensive education and career development programs limits alternatives for locals. Government rangers, tasked with protecting these habitats, are also insufficient in number, further weakening conservation efforts. Urgent Solutions Immediate action is required to address the critical conservation challenges in Cameroon. To protect endangered species and support local communities, the following solutions are essential: 1. Designation of Conservation Areas: Support the official designation of the Deng Deng Technical Operational Unit and the creation of six community-conserved areas to protect vital habitats.2. Wildlife Monitoring: Develop a comprehensive database tracking the distribution of key wildlife species, including migratory routes for great apes and African forest elephants.3. Economic Empowerment: Invest in initiatives that lift impoverished communities out of poverty, such as gorilla-based ecotourism, the valorization of non-timber forest products (NTFPs), agricultural ventures, cooperative development, and improved market access. 4. Education and Capacity Building: Implement a sustainable development education strategy focused on ecosystem management, skills training, and capacity development for local communities.5. Carbon Finance: Support the development of carbon finance mechanisms to ensure long-term funding for conservation efforts.6. Ecological Corridor Management: Establish and manage ecological corridors to promote species connectivity and reduce inbreeding.Together, these solutions will help safeguard Cameroon’s biodiversity while providing sustainable livelihoods for its communities, ensuring a brighter future for both people and wildlife. Why Your Donation Matters Your donations will help create and maintain community-conserved areas spanning 1.58 million acres, safeguarding critical habitats and establishing ecological corridors to prevent inbreeding and extinction of endangered species like great apes and elephants. Conservation Area Management Your support will help designate and manage the Deng Deng Technical Operational Unit and six community-conserved areas to protect vital habitats. Alternative Livelihoods By supporting economic development, your funds will provide sustainable livelihood alternatives for impoverished communities, reducing their dependence on forest and wildlife resources. Education and Capacity Building Education and training programs for local stakeholders will encourage sustainable practices and create opportunities beyond resource depletion. In addition, research and biomonitoring initiatives will help combat poaching and habitat destruction. Your contributions are vital in implementing long-term solutions to the current conservation challenges, ensuring a sustainable future for both wildlife and local communities. Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Top Accountability Effective Impact Conservation Action Heroes
National Association for the Conservation of Nature (ANCON)
DONATE TO ANCON Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner ANCON (National Association for the Conservation of Nature) Location Panama Category Community Support & Development Land Purchases Protected Area Management Urgent Appeals Help Purchase Tree Nurseries To Save Chad’s Forests Date Founded 1985 Website ancon.org Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Legally Constituted Effective Impact About ANCON ANCON is a nonprofit organization with over 39 years of experience dedicated to preserving Panama’s protected areas and biodiversity. Since its founding, ANCON has worked tirelessly to safeguard the country’s most valuable ecosystems, promoting sustainable practices and fostering a deeper connection between nature and society. ANCON focuses on strengthening protected area management and establishing sustainable terrestrial and marine corridors through reforestation, sustainable agriculture, ecosystem restoration, sustainable tourism, and strategic land acquisitions. For example, ANCON owns and manages Punta Patiño, the largest private nature reserve in Panama, which plays a crucial role in protecting Darien National Park and enhancing ecological connectivity between North and South America. Additionally, their urban sustainability program includes recycling initiatives, waste reduction campaigns, and efforts to encourage responsible disposal practices aimed at keeping urban rivers and beaches clean. ANCON’s projects also incorporate environmental education and policy advocacy to support informed decision-making, ensuring long-term environmental protection, community empowerment, and climate change resilience. With its holistic approach, ANCON remains a key player in protecting Panama’s wildlife and ecosystems, which, due to the country’s unique geographic position, contribute to the health and wellbeing of the entire planet. Their Challenges Panama faces significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, water scarcity, pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Deforestation, driven by agricultural expansion and urbanization, threatens biodiversity in areas like the Panama Canal watershed. Changing rainfall patterns and forest loss put the Canal’s water supply at risk, making conservation a priority. Pollution, especially plastic waste, harms marine life and stresses ecosystems, while the lack of a comprehensive recycling system worsens the issue. Coastal erosion and rising sea levels threaten both ecosystems and communities that depend on natural resources. Panama’s strategic position as a migration corridor makes its ecosystems vital for global biodiversity. ANCON works with local communities to promote sustainable practices and resilience to climate impacts, addressing these challenges through collaboration with government, civil society, and international partners. Their Approach ANCON addresses environmental challenges through a holistic approach that combines research, conservation, community engagement, and policy advocacy. They focus on conserving Panama’s protected areas and restoring terrestrial and marine corridors through reforestation, habitat restoration, and the management of key reserves. Their urban cleanups engage thousands of volunteers to reduce pollution’s impact on marine wildlife. A core element of their work involves helping local communities transition from unsustainable agricultural and fishing practices to sustainable, climate-resilient models. By providing training and resources, ANCON supports these communities in adopting eco-friendly agriculture and tourism to protect biodiversity and promote economic sustainability. They also emphasize environmental education, collaborating with schools and local organizations to foster a culture of conservation among younger generations. In addition, ANCON advocates for strong environmental policies, working with government bodies and international organizations to safeguard critical ecosystems like the Panama Canal watershed. Through strategic partnerships, they amplify their impact and mobilize resources for long-term conservation efforts. Why They Need Your Help Donations are essential to the success of ANCON’s conservation efforts, enabling them to expand their reach and address Panama’s most urgent environmental challenges. Your contributions will directly support the conservation of Panama’s protected areas and the restoration of key terrestrial and marine corridors. These efforts are critical for safeguarding water resources, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change. Donations also allow ANCON to work with local communities, providing them with the tools and training needed to adopt sustainable agricultural, fishing, forestry, and tourism practices. Additionally, your support will help expand their urban sustainability programs, addressing Panama’s waste management issues through recycling initiatives and education that inspire future generations of environmental stewards. With your help, ANCON can continue protecting Panama’s invaluable ecosystems, ensuring they remain a source of life and inspiration for generations to come.
Save Bhutan’s White-Bellied Herons From Extinction
DONATE TO RSPN BHUTAN Verified for authenticity Learn More IMPACT PROMISE Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact Partner Snapshot Partner Name Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN Bhutan) Location: Bhutan Appeal Category: Community Support and Development Capacity Building & Training Endangered Species Key Species: White-bellied Heron Rufous-necked Hornbill Small-clawed Otter Challenges And Threats: Crashing wildlife populations Increase threats to natural habitats Low support for landscape level community-conservation programs Actions: Revive wildlife populations through in-situ and ex-situ conservation programs Reconnecting habitats through ecosystem restoration activities Incentivize communities to reduce threats to wildlife The Challenge The Critically Endangered White-bellied heron faces a rapid decline across its few remaining habitats, primarily in Bhutan, Northeast India, and Myanmar. Human activities, such as habitat degradation and the socio-economic struggles of surrounding communities, place immense pressure on this rare species. Low population genetics and a small breeding population further heighten the risk of extinction. In Bhutan, the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) leads global conservation efforts to protect the White-bellied heron, the only organized program of its kind. However, resource challenges pose serious threats to the effectiveness of these programs. Activities like population monitoring, community engagement, habitat restoration, and maintaining the WBH Conservation Center require significant and growing operational costs. Managing these resources is the greatest challenge in sustaining the effort to save the White-bellied heron, and other endangered species, from extinction. Urgent Solutions Donations to this campaign will directly support the White-bellied heron conservation efforts, helping to address the urgent threats facing this species. The funds will be used to: Protect WBH habitats and support monitoring efforts Conduct annual population counts and track population dynamics Rescue and rehabilitate injured or endangered herons Restore degraded ecosystems that are critical to the WBH’s survival Identify potential habitats for the WBH within Bhutan and the region Enhance research on WBH ecology to inform conservation strategies Support infrastructure improvements such as laboratory equipment, aviaries, and fish ponds for breeding programs Build capacity and provide fair compensation for conservation staff These actions will also benefit surrounding communities, incentivizing them to actively participate in conservation efforts. Why Your Donation Matters Your donation is crucial in preventing the extinction of the White-bellied heron, which could disappear by 2050 without immediate intervention. The Royal Society for Protection of Nature, through more than 20 years of dedicated efforts, has so far prevented the extinction of these birds. In 2003, only 14 individuals were recorded, but through careful management, that number has grown to at least 25 as of 2024. Despite these gains, the WBH remains critically endangered, and continued conservation efforts are necessary. RSPN is partnering with international organizations like Conservation Alliance to secure the funding required for the next two decades. Your donation will help sustain the White-bellied Heron Conservation and Breeding Center, scale up community engagement and livelihood programs, and protect key breeding and feeding habitats. By supporting this cause, you are playing a truly vital role in saving one of the world’s most endangered species and contributing to the overall health of Bhutan’s ecosystems. Partner Qualifications IUCN Member Verified Partner Legally Constituted Top Accountability Effective Impact Conservation Action Heroes