While much of the surrounding land has been degraded by soya plantations and cattle ranching, the quilombo Kalunga maintains its traditional medicine and culinary culture drawing upon the native species of the region, and is fighting to maintain its biodiversity.

Their culture is recognized for maintaining a respectful relationship with the forest. They have turned down lucrative contracts for industrial agriculture to preserve their way of life.

Today, this very place stands as a testament to ancient secrets, past struggles and the future unity of a people fighting for their collective emancipation. They are the custodians of wisdom and traditions long forgotten by modern societies.

Within the territory, hundreds of natural springs are drying up due to climate change, illegal intrusion by large monoculture producers and unsustainable agricultural practices. Many young people are forced to leave in search of employment, and the loss of access to water is endangering the survival of their way of life and the knowledge that they have accumulated at a time when humanity needs to preserve techniques of sustainability and resilience.