Constantino Aucca is the man behind the project! His NGO - Association for Andean Ecosystems (ECOAN) - was established in 2001.

Bringing back forests means ensuring the future of indigenous cultures. Their tradition of shared community service is an invaluable enabler for restoration.

From upslope communities to major downstream cities and the Amazon, all depend on water to thrive.

This photo gallery shows animals of the high Andes mountain ecology. Reforestation with native tree species creates habitat for many very rare animal species which increases biodiversity.

Almost gone but not lost, these forests serve as water reservoirs for communities, habitat for wildlife and biodiversity, and ensure the functionality of the entire Amazon.

To scale up restoration, existing nurseries have to be repaired, and new nurseries built. On-site nurseries are used to acclimatize seedlings (survival rates as high as 85-90%), to reduce transportation costs, and to create job opportunities.

Leadership on the ground is critically needed for effective, large-scale ecosystem restoration. Our leaders partner with communities and conservation organizations to build a massive restoration movement across the Andes.