Solving with Nature ANNUAL REPORT ATLANTIC Gulf of Mexico OCEAN

2018 LATIN AMERICA Solving with Nature ANNUAL REPORT ATLANTIC Gulf of Mexico OCEAN

MEXICO

BELIZE HONDURAS Caribbean Sea GUATEMALA Nature’s NICARAGUA EL SALVADOR

COSTA RICA PACIFIC OCEAN PANAMA Powerhouse COLOMBIA

ECUADOR Latin America is a land of superlatives: from the vast Amazon basin to frozen glaciers high in the Andes, the region holds a third of the PERU world’s fresh water. Its wonders include the largest rainforest on BRAZIL the planet, the mightiest river, the highest waterfall and the longest mountain range. The region holds a quarter of the world’s forests BOLIVIA and is home to more plant and animal species than any other place CONTENTS in the world. PARAGUAY 6 Protect Land and Water This unparalleled natural wealth has fueled Latin America’s Our Legacy and Our Future economies, and—as we hurtle toward a world with 10 billion CHILE people—will play a pivotal role in meeting global demand for food, 16 Tackle Climate Change Nature’s Path to a Stable Climate water and energy. Latin America’s immense forests—powerful storehouses of carbon that filter our air and regulate our climate— ARGENTINA 28 Produce Food and Water Sustainably are essential to the health of our warming planet. Feeding our World, Saving our Planet Simply put, there is no place more important—for plant and Latin America animal diversity, for climate regulation and for the global 40 Build Healthy Cities is the world’s most Thirsty Cities Turn to Nature biodiverse region economy—than Latin America. 16% The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has been working in the region Across Latin America, four strategic priorities of Earth’s Land surface unite us: protecting land and water, tackling for the past four decades. Built upon a strong foundation of science, climate change, providing food and water sustainably, and building healthy cities. 40% partnerships and field innovation, TNC’s work in Latin America of all species is advancing collaborative conservation solutions to address our N world’s toughest challenges. 0 500 mi 25% of all forests 0 500 km 30% of all fresh water

on the cover: A native tree sapling is prepared for planting in the Mantiqueira range of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Reforestation is a powerful tool in the race to stop climate change. © FELIPE FITTIPALDI

2 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 3 ne of our sons believes his Ochildren—our grandchildren—will ask: “Why didn’t you do more about climate change when you had the chance?” Latin America’s vast forests are critical to slowing climate change and are core to The Nature Conservancy’s worldwide strategies. We support TNC specifically because its conservation work cares for the world our grandchildren will inherit. We want our grandchildren to be proud of how we have helped.

—Joyce and Les Coleman Joyce is Chair of TNC’s Global Ambassadors and Trustee of the Maine Chapter

After decades of turning forests into pasturelands, Brazilian farmers are reversing the trend. Itamar da Silva, a farmer in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, has safeguarded native forests on his land and adopted sustainable practices that combine crops and native trees. 4 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA© FELIPE ANNUALFITTIPALDI REPORT | 5 Solving with Nature Defining our Legacy

Latin America, the world’s most biodiverse rations, governments and civic society orga- Our world is standing at a crossroads between two paths, and region, is at a turning point. Climate change, nizations, finance institutions and develop- the choice we make today will define the legacy we leave for biodiversity loss, alarming deforestation, ment agencies, producers and researchers. future generations. and overexploitation of oceans are straining Our long-standing ability to leverage If we stay on the “business as usual” path, we face increasing the very natural systems that are critical resources and knowledge is key to our suc- environmental challenges that will affect all our lives deeply, for our survival. But nature itself, with its cess. We use private investments to mobilize such as declining water and food security. But there is another mighty regenerative power, holds the key to ever-greater commitments for conservation way, a sustainable path, where people recognize nature’s role in addressing some of our world’s most press- and capitalize upon our standing in the mar- improving their lives and decide to take better care of it. As Co- ing challenges. ketplace of ideas to push best practices. Chair of the Latin America Conservation Council (LACC), I am © ANA GARCIA/TNC Today, more than ever, we must work Given the magnitude and urgency of the © ERIKA NORTEMANN committed to working with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to with nature, instead of against it. And today, challenge, our strategy is to rapidly replicate chart the course for the sustainable path. more than ever, we must work together. successful models—figuring out what works Conservation and economic development are inseparable. Across Latin America, The Nature on a large scale and encouraging others, We need to work on both, simultaneously, for the effects to Conservancy (TNC) is harnessing innova- through market and regulatory incentives, be truly lasting. This conviction inspires LACC members to tion, creativity and partnerships to chart the to follow suit. In Latin America’s cities, recruit other influential leaders in the political, corporate, course to a sustainable pathway. We are us- home to 80 percent of the region’s popu- financial, and social sectors to endorse and invest in scaling ing the power of nature to restore the health lation, we are making major strides in this the benefits of TNC’s nature-based solutions. of our soils and oceans, so they may continue direction with water. Pioneered in Ecuador, Whether preventing floods, growing more food, capturing nourishing our planet. We are working with the Water Fund model has been adapted in carbon, or ensuring water flows to our growing cities, TNC’s farmers and agribusinesses to transform the 11 countries from the United States to China work in Latin America is unleashing the power of nature and way we grow our food to be more productive to Kenya. This year, we launched a Water the ingenuity of people to make a more sustainable future a on less land. We are tapping technology Fund Accelerator in Colombia to test the reality. to help plan infrastructure with the least feasibility of doubling Water Funds in half There is a lot at stake, and yet these are hopeful times. environmental impact. We are integrating the time, at half the cost. As you will see in this report, we are making progress bring- traditional knowledge and science to steer None of this would be possible without ing people together to drive change across food production development away from ecological and cul- your support and the tireless efforts of our systems, watersheds, and energy grids for sustainable develop- tural assets. We are galvanizing partnerships 300 staff who bring their passion, expertise ment with significant climate benefits, thus helping countries to launch massive reforestation projects that and commitment to our mission each day. reach their Paris commitments. translate climate commitments into action We hope that the accomplishments high- We are grateful for your support at this crucial moment. while creating jobs and boosting economies. lighted in this report inspire you. We depend We all have a part to play in choosing the path forward for our Collaboration is the common thread on—and are grateful for—your support as we planet. Only together can we create a new paradigm of devel- running through each of our actions. The work together, solving with nature, our most opment with conservation. Please join us! changes the world needs can only come critical challenges. about through the efforts of many actors: local communities and multinational corpo-

Sérgio Rial CEO, Grupo Santander, Brazil Santiago Gowland Co-Chair, Latin America Conservation Council Executive Vice President for Global Innovation laconservationcouncil.org and Managing Director for Latin America Region The Nature Conservancy

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Our Legacy and Our Future

The Nature Conservancy has been pioneering ways to protect Latin America’s lands and waters for the past four decades. That spirit of innovation and bold vision that propelled our very first “debt-for-nature” “We have a great swap to support the conservation of Braulio Carillo National Park in Costa Rica in 1988, continues to opportunity to guide us today. build a legacy for Through a combination of old-fashioned protec- our children and tion, cutting-edge science and innovative part- grandchildren if nerships, we have helped safeguard some of the we work together region’s most iconic places, from the sun-soaked with governments, coasts of Baja California to the windswept grass- corporations, lands of Patagonia. We partner with indigenous peoples and local communities and communities to strengthen their rights and roles as conservationists and environmental stewards. We engage corporations use science to make and governments to apply smart infrastructure nature a full partner siting principles to ensure the $3 trillion predicted in our development.” to be spent on Latin America infrastructure over the Roberto Hernandez coming decade advances economic, community Member of the Latin America and environmental objectives. We spur the creation Conservation Council of novel financial models and forward-thinking policies to amplify the scale and speed of conservation. A student at the Amazon Indigenous Training Center Protecting lands and waters is our legacy and in the Brazilian Amazon, Manaus, Brazil. Indigenous our future. peoples’ long-standing knowledge of natural systems makes them vital and inspirational allies in the pursuit of a sustainable future. © RAFAEL ARAUJO

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Guardians of the Forest

Flying over the Amazon, it becomes crystal clear: The most pristine areas of the magnificent forest are indigenous lands, which represent more than a quarter of the Amazon basin and are home to more than 300 indigenous groups. These natural safe havens literally hold the line against the deforestation that has felled one-fifth of the lush Amazon rainforest over the past 40 years driven by relentless pressure from large-scale oil, gas, infrastructure development and expanding agricultural frontiers. The Nature Conservancy’s work in the Amazon basin spans Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia. Our goal is to transform the way land and water decisions are made by strengthening indigenous peoples’ voice, choice and action to manage natural territory in ways that improve lives and drive conservation. “Our approach is rooted in a commitment to indigenous peoples and respect for their rights, knowledge and leadership. Our efforts integrate ancestral knowledge and best conservation practices based on sound science.” Helcio de Souza, TNC Brazil’s indigenous program manager. A vivid example of this work is happening in the Brazilian Amazon. The Nature Conservancy has partnered with indigenous peoples since 1999 and was the first non-governmental organization (NGO) to establish formal cooperation agreements with FUNAI, Brazil´s indigenous affairs agency. In 2012, TNC helped create Brazil’s National Policy for Territorial and Envi- © KEVIN ARNOLD ronmental Management of Indigenous Lands, which endorses indigenous-led Mukuka Xikrin, president of Bepotire Xikrin Institute, discusses the environmental and territorial management plan of Trincheira-Bacajá land management of the country’s entire indigenous land in the Brazilian Amazon. TNC’s work integrates ancestral 250-million-acre indigenous lands system knowledge with best conservation practices based on science.

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through official recognition of indigenous “ The Territorial and environmental and territorial management plans. To date, TNC has supported eight Environmental Management indigenous groups in the creation of their Plan is a communication management plans across more than 12 tool between indigenous million acres. These management plans combine tra- and non-indigenous peoples ditional knowledge with scientific informa- that shows how indigenous tion and foster a collective dialogue among community members to reach consensual communities intend to take decisions about how to use natural resourc- care of their land and their es to guarantee long-term sustainability and improve the community’s well-being. territory.” Equipped with maps and their manage- Aline Mayumi ment plans, indigenous leaders are better Indigenous Affairs Specialist prepared to advocate for their territories. National Indian Foundation (FUNAI) A key accomplishment in 2018 was the completion of management plans for the 2.8-million-acre Paresi territories, one of the last opportunities for conservation in Mato Grosso state. These plans have laid the groundwork for strengthening the Paresi’s voice in decisions that are made on or near their lands, including imminent hydropower development in the Tapajós basin, and supporting the Paresi’s leadership in realizing a future aligned with their vision and priorities. Complementing these efforts, TNC is convening private and public institutions, rural associ- ations and indigenous leaders to promote collaboration through- out the region. Two companies ALL: © KEVIN ARNOLD have adopted indigenous management Xikrin women gathering papayas and bananas from the plans to help guide development projects forest at the Trincheira-Bacajá indigenous territory in the in Pará state. Brazilian Amazon. above right: Bepnhibety Xikrin, a member Around the globe, indigenous peoples are of the Xikrin community, uses GPS to identify places cul- vital leaders in the pursuit of lasting solu- turally or economically relevant to his community to inform territorial planning efforts. right: Bacajá River in Pot-Kro tions for a sustainable future—a quarter of Village, Brazilian Amazon. all land on Earth is in their hands. From the Maya Forest in Mexico to the Amazon basin, TNC’s partnership with indigenous peoples has the potential to influence the future of more than 10 percent of Latin America’s most biodiverse landscapes.

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MEXICO Banking on Protection to Recover the Wealth of Our Oceans Fish replenishment zones are much like investment accounts on our oceans. Setting fishing restrictions on selected areas allows marine life to bounce back. As stocks recover, they repopulate adjacent fishing grounds, increasing fishers’ productivity and profits; a triple win for the environment, the economy and society. The Nature Conservancy has contributed technical, scientific and financial resources to sig- nificantly expand this strategy in Mexico’s Gulf of California. The replenishment zone network in the San Cosme-Punta Coyote Corridor added 17,000 acres—growing four times its original size and resulting in a 30 percent increase of fish abundance in the area. We also worked alongside local government officials, communities and organizations to design a new 160,000-acre network of fish replenishment zones in the upper gulf region. The seas surrounding the 800-mile-long Baja California peninsula support an extraordinary diversity of marine life, including shrimp, squid, tuna and other fish that constitute 70 percent of Mexico’s annual catch and many of the world’s marine mammals, including blue, gray, humpback and pilot whales.

ALL: © CARLOS AGUILERA

Conservation bestows economic and environmental results. Fish replenishment zones allow marine life to flourish in Baja California and repopulate adjacent fishing grounds.

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PERU COLOMBIA COLOMBIA, MEXICO, PERU River watershed, was adopted by Colombia’s Protecting Sacred Lands Supersizing Conservation Tapping Science to Guide environmental licensing authority to guide The government of Peru established Yaguas A presidential decree expanded Chiribiquete Smart Development its environmental impact assessments. We National Park in the Peruvian Amazon. National Park from 7 to nearly 11 million The issue is not whether or not to build are now expanding SIMA to guide smart Roughly the size of the New York metropol- acres. Slightly larger than Belgium, Chiribi- infrastructure, but rather where and how development in the tropical savannas of itan area, the new park protects one of the quete is famous for its ancient, tabletop rock to build it in a way that causes minimal Colombia’s Orinoquia and the Ucayali basin, in the Peruvian Amazon. Additionally, a re- above: Aerial view of last great intact forests of our planet and will formations, thick rainforest and dramatic impact to Latin America’s magnificent The Magdalena River is the Yaguas National Park, a prevent the loss of about 1.5 million tons waterfalls. The park harbors one of the high- natural wealth. The Nature Conservancy cent workshop introduced the tool to public, backbone of Colombia’s new protected area in the of carbon over the next two decades. TNC est rates of plant diversity in the northern has continued to test and refine powerful, private and academic sectors in Mexico to economy and home to Peruvian Amazon. explore its potential application to smart multiple endemic species supported this initiative through policy Amazon and provides refuge to threatened science-based tools to model infrastruc- that may be harmed by in- above right: Chiribiquete hydropower development in the Coatzacoal- frastructure development. National Park, Colombia’s advocacy and by raising awareness about the species, including lowland tapirs, giant ture scenarios, optimize outcomes and TNC is providing tools for largest protected area, is ecological and cultural importance of this anteaters, and the endemic Chiribiquete assign compensations in a transparent cos basin. The potential impact of applying early planning to prevent famous for its tabletop a science-based, early planning approach to area. “Yaguas National Park will not only emerald hummingbird. The Nature Conser- and inclusive manner. New compensation unnecessary impacts. mountains rising from its conserve a natural sanctuary, which is home vancy played an important role in working guidelines issued by the Colombian gov- hydropower development worldwide could immense forests and pro- save more than 62,000 miles of rivers from vides refuge to threatened to unique species, but also generate oppor- with local and regional authorities to build ernment to more accurately calculate the species, such as the low- tunities for indigenous families,” said Prime consensus for the expansion and supported damage caused to nature by infrastructure needless fragmentation and degradation land tapir pictured below. Minister Mercedes Aráoz. “The mountain of scientific studies to delimitate the park’s projects were developed with expert input while meeting global energy needs. our ancestors has to be a national park be- expansion. TNC has also undertaken several from TNC scientists. SIMA, the online cause it is a sacred place,” explained Eriberto efforts to deter deforestation in Chiribi- decision-support tool developed by TNC for Jiménez Hilorio, president of the Indige- quete’s buffer zone, engaging municipal better basin-level planning in the Magdalena nous Federation of the Border Communities governments, rural and indigenous com- of Putumayo. munities on land use planning, sustainable practices and environmental education.

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Nature’s Path “We are not, as a world, going to reach our climate goals and avoid the worst-case scenarios without a large natural capital component—saving our forests and grasslands and engaging in to a Stable Climate restoration. There is no climate solution without nature.”

Henry M. Paulson Jr. Chairman, The Paulson Institute Former Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Member of the Latin America Conservation Council

The effects of climate change are already upon us. Extreme weather events are endangering lives, jeopardizing species and exacerbating poverty. It is not too late to shift our course toward a safer climate. Our actions will determine the future of our planet. Nature can be our strongest ally. Our planet’s forests, wetlands and grasslands capture and store tremendous amounts of carbon. The Nature Conservancy’s research has shown that protecting and restoring these ecosystems could provide more than one-third of the measures needed to limit global warming. Across the region, TNC’s pioneering science, pragmatic approach and legacy of collaboration are helping to translate Latin America’s climate commitments into action. We are galvanizing partnerships to meet ambitious reforestation targets. We are transforming how agricultural lands are used and managed to increase production while halting deforestation. We are launching creative schemes to restore reefs and floodplains to reduce the impact from storms and rising seas. We are harnessing the power of nature to chart a new path to a stable climate.

Reforestation efforts in the Mantiqueira range of Brazil’s much-depleted Atlantic Forest will contribute 10 percent of Brazil’s national forest restoration commitment under the Paris Agreement. 18 | THE© FELIPE FITTIPALDI NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 19 TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE

ALL: © FELIPE FITTIPALDI Establishing diverse forests

above: More than 80 different species of trees native to the Atlantic Forest are being used to restore priority areas near water springs and eroded hills in Extrema, a municipality in the Mantiqueira range. A team of 15 workers may plant up to 2,000 trees per day. Areas that have been restored sequester carbon, maintain soil fertility, nurture biodiversity and protect water.

right: Discouraged by the low productivity of his degraded land, Adolfo Littig decided to recover his family farm and joined TNC-sponsored reforestation efforts. He grows native trees alongside crops such as persimmon, avocado and mango.

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The Case for Restoration Economy

Nature has provided us with a powerful force to fight climate change: our forests. Forests are a crucial “carbon sink,” living engines that absorb carbon from the atmosphere and store it in soils and trees. Restoring our forest is among the biggest, untapped opportunities to stabilize our climate. Countries around the world have pledged to reforest nearly 500 million acres—the equivalent of eliminating half of all emissions from transportation globally—but are struggling to turn these bold commitments into action. What is needed is a large-scale success story that shows reforestation can create jobs and grow the economy. The Nature Conservancy’s work in Brazil’s Mantiqueira Mountains may serve as the proving ground needed to spark the global restoration movement. Nestled within the Atlantic Forest, one of the most ecologically diverse and vulnerable regions on the planet, Mantiqueira offers millions of underused acres, abundant water, favorable market and policy frameworks and easy access to Latin America’s largest markets. Together, these factors mean that restoring native forests could become more financially attractive to landowners than the low-productivity cattle grazing that currently dominates the landscape and devours endangered forests. The Mantiqueira project is based on the positive experiences of watershed protection and agroforestry models implemented in the region by TNC and local partners. We are using the network and trust built © FELIPE FITTIPALDI through 10 years of the São Paulo Water Fund (which conducts forest restoration An 11-year-old plantation of native guanandi trees included in reforestation efforts outside São Paulo is providing both ecological and economic value. Sustainable forestry, in a portion of Mantiqueira to improve when combined with natural forest protection, can be a component of an overall plan water security for downstream residents) that helps sequester carbon, retain water and create a sustainable supply of wood.

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“The project is transforming rural properties into producers of environmental services. Areas that have been reforested sequester carbon, maintain soil fertility, nurture biodiversity, and produce water.”

Paulo Pereira Environmental Secretary, Extrema Municipality, Brazil

to quickly establish 20 restoration hubs. These will create local networks, dissem- inate best practices and channel public funding to forest restoration. We are also building on our expertise in tropical forest restoration to make the financial case for “economic restoration” (forest restoration that produces timber and fruit, as well as ecological benefits). By creating tangible financial benefits to landowners, we can establish a new restoration economy and drive a virtuous cycle capable of changing land use across millions of acres. This ambitious initiative brings together stakeholders from 284 Brazilian municipal- ities located near Brazil’s biggest markets— the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais—to build a forest restoration network. The resulting 3 million acres of forest will take approximately 280 million tons of excess carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere over 30 years—the equivalent of the emissions of more than 55 million cars—and fulfill 10 percent of Brazil’s reforestation goal under the Paris Agreement. It will also help secure water for city dwellers, transform rural economies and help bring back endangered forests. “The Mantiqueira project is transforming rural properties into producers of environmental services. Areas that have been reforested sequester carbon, maintain soil fertility, nurture biodiversity and produce water,” says Paulo Pereira, environmental secretary for the Extrema municipality. The success of the project will show the world that using a systems change © FELIPE FITTIPALDI approach to land use can play a major role in addressing climate change. Look to Maria Salete Eugênio collects bananas produced using agroforestry systems in the Coru- putuba Farm. The system, developed in partnership with TNC, combines species native Mantiqueira as a frontier for the emerging to the Atlantic Forest and other species for the production of wood, food and seeds. global restoration movement.

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ARGENTINA we need to capture. We also know that these line, within a global biodiversity hot spot, Adaptation (EbA) to show decision-mak- Forestry as a Climate Solution actions will generate exports and insert the reserve protects one of the world’s last ers how to use natural solutions to reduce The Nature Conservancy played a leading Argentina in an increasingly competitive temperate rainforests, which also consti- vulnerability and build resilience to climate above: Argentina seeks forestry market,” explained the Minister of tutes one of the most carbon-dense forests change. Ecosystem-based Adaptation takes Both black-collared hawks to reforest 5 million role in designing ForestAr 2030, a new (top left) and local fishers acres by 2030. platform that unites six ministries to boost Environment and Sustainable Development, on Earth. In 2014, the site generated Chile’s the form of conservation, restoration and (bottom left) depend on Argentina’s economy and environmental Sergio Bergman. first forest carbon credits certified under the sustainable management of ecosystems the Barbacoas wetland, an the Verified Carbon Standard. To date, the that provide climate adaptation services, important fish nursery for sustainability through massive reforesta- commercial species of the CHILE tion. This pioneering initiative will help reserve has retired more than $1 million in while also taking into account the multiple middle and lower Magda- mitigate climate change and position Argen- Forests that fight Climate Change carbon credits, helping to mitigate climate social, economic and cultural benefits the lena River Basin. TNC and change and ensuring the conservation of ecosystems provide for communities. TNC partners are helping locals tina in the global forestry market. The goal The Nature Conservancy launched one native species. is already implementing the EbA approach preserve the natural diver- is to reach nearly 5 million acres of forested of Chile’s largest reforestation efforts to sity of the wetland and the along Colombia’s Magdalena River Basin land by 2030, including the restoration of protect rare temperate rainforest in the many services it provides. COLOMBIA in the wetlands of Barbacoas, El Sapo and 740,000 acres of native forests. The plat- 150,000-acre Valdivian Coastal Reserve, a above: Liliana Pezoa, TNC’s Zapatosa. Working with local communities form is underpinned by scientific guide- focal point for our climate action work in Ecosystems: Our Best Defense manager of the Valdivian in these wetlands we have restored native Coastal Reserve, surveys lines—provided by TNC—which show that Chile. Working with local communities and Around the world, climate change is ex- forests, created orchards and implemented one of the trails. The reforestation is one of the most efficient, using sustainable harvesting methods, we acerbating droughts, floods and extreme reserve protects rare tem- sustainable fisheries and cattle ranching nature-based and low-cost solutions for are restoring 7,000 acres of native forests. weather events. Harnessing the ability of perate rainforests and is the practices. We have also helped communities focal point of TNC’s climate mitigating climate change and meeting the Prior to TNC turning the site into a pro- natural ecosystems to buffer these im- recover traditional knowledge, which rekin- action work in Chile. Paris Agreement goals. “ForestAr will trans- tected area in 2005, timber companies had pacts is critical. The Nature Conservancy dles their relationship with nature and helps form the problem of climate change into an replaced these forests with commercial, and Colombia’s Ministry of Environment them to safeguard their ecosystems. opportunity. We know how many hectares non-native eucalyptus plantations that dry and Sustainable Development launched we need to reforest and how much carbon up the damp temperate rainforest soils. an innovative Guide to Ecosystem-based Located on the country’s southern coast-

26 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 27 Enrique Gallegos and Norma Peralta calculate how much of each habitat type they mapped during a reef-rescue training. After a hurricane, brigade members will quickly sur- vey the reefs and prioritize where repairs—such as reattaching broken pieces (below)—are most needed. Without such help, broken and buried corals can die in about 45 days.

ALL: © JENNIFER ADLER

MEXICO dustry market that can be applied in other A Rescue Squad for Coral Reefs regions and ecosystems. As part of prepara- In March 2018, TNC, the governor of tion efforts, TNC is helping train brigades Quintana Roo State, Mexico, the National of community members, called “Guardians Commission for Protected Areas and local of the Reef,” to be the first responders after partners launched the Coastal Zone Man- major storms. This is the first training of its agement Trust, which will receive taxes kind in Mexico and it’s imperative to rapid- from the local hotel association and govern- ly implement a standard protocol, designed ment to fund maintenance and restoration by TNC, for gathering damaged corals and efforts in the Riviera Maya. Funds will also reef fragments, removing debris and begin- be used to purchase an insurance policy ning a faster, more-effective recovery of the that is triggered when severe weather hits reef system. Healthy reefs protect coastal the reef, paying for restoration activi- communities from catastrophic hurricanes, ties and protecting an annual $10 billion support the thriving tourism economy and tourism industry. This project may stand serve as a habitat for fisheries and coral as a model for a scalable new insurance in- ecosystems.

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Feeding Our “Conservation without increased production is not achievable, and increased production World, Saving without conservation is not sustainable.” Ginya Truitt Nakata Director of Lands, Latin America Region Our Planet The Nature Conservancy

Already an agricultural powerhouse, Latin America is the world’s top net food exporter, providing the lion’s share of soybeans, beef, corn and coffee. And all eyes are set on Latin America to maintain global food security as the world’s population rises to 10 billion in the coming decades. But the convert-and-deplete approach to food production has exacted a heavy toll on the region’s wildlife and the world’s climate. More than half the forest loss in the world is happening in Latin America, where deforestation is three times the global rate. The region’s agriculture sector has become a leading global emitter of greenhouse gases. Nearly half of Latin America’s assessed fish stock is ranked from fully exploited to depleted. Science shows us there is another way. Across Latin America, The Nature Conservancy is working with farmers and fishers to transform the “business as usual” mind-set. We are changing the way we grow our food to be more productive on less land. We are tapping new technologies to manage fisheries sustainably. We are using the power of nature to restore the health of our soils and oceans and build resiliency to our changing climate. We can meet human demands and do better by nature. Latin America stands as a proving ground.

Surrounded by soy fields, native forests in Mato Grosso state survive under the protection of the Brazilian Forest Code. The legislation requires landowners to preserve forest and restore areas around rivers and water springs.

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Smaller Footprint, More Food, More Wildlife

Because of its enormous potential to in- sustainable practices that protect critical crease agricultural production, satisfy rising habitats while increasing production, prof- demand for food and keep pantries stocked its and climate resilience. These well-tested all over the world, Latin America is critical practices incorporate trees, forage banks to maintaining global food security. At the and living fences made up of native species same time, Latin America’s vast forests and that provide shelter for wildlife and in unique wildlife are crucial to securing the many cases help connect protected areas, health of our warming planet. Can the region serving as wildlife corridors. Results have strike a balance between expanding agricul- been impressive: Milk and meat production ture and preserving its biodiversity? Can it increased by 17 percent while greenhouse demonstrate a way to both nourish and save gas emissions were reduced by 1 million the planet? tons (comparable to taking © LEGADO VERDE Science, economics and on-the-ground 214,000 cars off the road experience show that it is indeed feasible to for one year). Biodiver- increase food production without sacrificing sity monitoring on farms the environment. registered 479 species of This is the premise behind The Na- birds—more than half as ture Conservancy’s Healthy Agricultural many bird species as all of

Systems (HAS) approach in Latin America, the United States! IMAGES HERMANS/GETTY © TON a game-changing strategy that is quickly In Chiapas, Mexico, a gaining ground in the region by demonstrat- region where tremendous ing that agricultural productivity actually biological wealth contrasts prospers when managed hand in hand with with alarming levels of preserving the delicate ecological balance poverty and deforestation, essential to our planet’s future. dairy farmers who incorpo- The Conservancy has established several rated HAS practices saw their milk produc- Scarlet macaws are projects that are encouraging this transfor- tion increase between 25 and 45 percent commonly observed flying in pairs or in family groups mation. A promising case in point comes over a three-year period while methane over Latin America’s from work TNC is supporting in Colombia, emissions decreased by nearly one-third. tropical forests. a cattle-producing nation that has emerged These practices have not only raised yields Hector Carrillo in Chiapas, from years of conflict with the hope of vastly and profits but have also helped conserve Mexico, (above right) and expanding its agricultural productivity. critical natural habitats in Mexico’s second Ernesto Rojas in Meta, Colombia, (right) are two Cattle ranching can be hard on the land, the most biodiverse state. of the 5,000 farmers who water and the atmosphere. But it doesn’t With a HAS approach, farming becomes have adopted the Healthy have to be. more productive, profitable and poised to Agricultural Systems approach with support TNC and its Colombian partners are meet the increasing global demand for food. from TNC and local promoting sustainable ranching at the Land is restored and becomes healthier, partners. These systems largest scale ever done in Colombia. More more fertile and more valuable. Natural increase yields, profits, natural habitat and climate than 4,000 ranchers—mainly owners of areas and biodiversity are preserved and resilience. small-size plots in areas of high biodiver- enhanced, while agriculture over time can sity and low income levels—are adopting cease to contribute to climate change. © JUAN ARREDONDO

32 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 33 “I used to worry constantly about my cows not putting on weight or not having enough water during the dry season. I had more cows then, but produced far less. Things turned around when I joined the sustainable ranching project. I attended workshops and got one-on-one help from field experts. I learned so much. My farm looks very different now. My cattle love it here. They have food, shade and water year round. And they produce more milk! I am so proud of being a sustainable rancher.”

Mercedes Murillo Cattle rancher, Colombia

Mercedes Murillo owns a 48-acre ranch on the biodiversity-rich foothills of Meta, Colombia. By adopting sustainable practices, she transformed her once-barren pastures into fields bursting with trees, shrubs and grasses. These multiple layers of vegetation work symbiotically to regenerate soils, improve production and enhance biodiversity. Cattle gain weight faster and produce more milk and less methane. These types of agricultural systems support five times as many bird species as traditional monoculture pastures in the same region. © JUAN ARREDONDO

34 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 35 PROVIDE FOOD AND WATER SUSTAINABLY

“By putting electronic traceability in place, the National Fisher’s Cooperative is leading the way in Belize and the region in Pioneering Electronic environmentally and socially responsible seafood production.”

Charles Steinback Traceability in Belize Future of Fish Director of Global Operations.

Acclaimed for its beauty and biodiver- real time and monthly reports are almost in- sity, Belize’s barrier reef supports vibrant stantly sent to the Belize Fisheries Depart- marine habitats that sustain the country’s ment (BFD). A lengthy process of transcrib- economy through tourism and fisheries. An ing data from paper receipts to logbooks and estimated 3,000 fishers make a living from then manually uploading the data into BFD’s the sea. Spiny lobster and conch are the most database now occurs seamlessly, in seconds economically valuable fisheries. rather than days. BFD is currently consider- Elmer Rodriguez has been fishing Belize’s ing adopting the system at a national scale. turquoise waters for more than 40 years. He Tally was built with scalability in mind, not is the chairman of the National Fisher’s Co- only to meet the specifications of NFC, but operative (NFC), the second-largest coop- also to abide by regional traceability criteria erative in Belize. With a deep commitment outlined in the Caribbean Spiny Lobster to sustainability, NFC has a strong track Regional Fishery Management Plan. record for abiding by fisheries regulations, “This simple, yet innovative technolo- refusing to accept undersize or out-of-sea- gy is providing fishers, fishery managers, son product. But over the years fish stocks have declined and fishers’ livelihoods have suffered. “It may now take a whole season to catch what used to be a week’s worth of spiny lobster,” Rodriguez says. NFC decided that something had to change and that it would take the lead in creating a better-managed and more sustainable industry. “The fishers’ commitment to sustainability and willingness to make difficult management decisions is what led us to partner with NFC to create a model for others in the industry to follow. Together we identified electronic traceability as a tool to improve fisheries management while increasing access to premium markets for NFC mem- A fisher captures a lobster bers,” explains Julie Robinson, TNC’s oceans companies and consumers with the tools using a noose in Belize, lead for Belize. and information needed to make better allowing undersized lobsters After a rigorous process, ThisFish—a decisions across the seafood supply chain. to be released unharmed. Lobsters are one of the seafood traceability provider and one of the As a Belizean, my heart is filled with pride to most ecologically and 10 winners of the Techstars Sustainability share this groundbreaking move with Elmer economically important Accelerator program—was selected to devel- Rodriguez, a fisherman who has sacrificed species of the Caribbean. op a traceability technology (Tally) tailored so much to lead NFC to where it is today. right: Fisheries Coop staff to Belize’s fishery and NFC needs. Our accomplishments are the result of these in Belize transitioned from handwritten notes to NFC implemented Tally just in time for partnerships,” says Robinson. tablets. The new traceability the opening of the 2018 spiny lobster season. By fostering data-driven fisheries, Belize software empowers fishers This new system allows NFC to electronical- will be able to conserve marine ecosystems to become better stewards of the sea. ly track production by landings to individual and protect livelihoods, balancing the needs fishers and fishing regions and to keep a of nature and people and providing a sus- product inventory. All data is collected in tainable model for Belize and the region. ALL: ©RANDY OLSON

36 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 37 PROVIDE FOOD AND WATER SUSTAINABLY

BRAZIL kind financing mechanism that provides Innovative Tool to Grow long-term loans to farmers who commit to Soy Sustainably producing soy sustainably in suitable areas As the world’s second-largest soy producer defined by Agroideal. and top exporter, Brazil must find solutions to meet growing demands for soy without MEXICO causing further deforestation. Agroideal is Empowering Change a new online tool that creates transparency Despite the immense value of the Maya for the Brazilian soybean supply chain. De- Forest, the Yucatan Peninsula loses nearly veloped by TNC, a coalition of companies led right: Matheus Correia 200,000 acres of tropical forest per year. Dutra helps collect cacao by Bunge, as well as NGOs and government This means losing unique wildlife, healthy at his family’s farm in entities, the tool analyzes 18 layers of social, soils, vital carbon reservoirs, and the cul- São Félix do Xingu, Brazil. environmental and agroeconomic data to After giving up on cattle, tural heritage of the Maya communities. his family replanted their help companies drive agricultural produc- Much of this land conversion is due to the farm with these Ama- tion responsibly into previously cleared expansion of extensive agriculture and cat- zon-native trees. areas, without disturbing the remaining nat- tle ranching. TNC is scaling up sustainable ural ecosystems. Originally designed for Bra- practices through Networks for Landscape zil’s Cerrado—the largest savanna in South Innovation, which empower local leaders America—the tool was expanded to the to demonstrate farming methods proven Brazilian Amazon and is now available for to boost yields and incomes while conserving forests. With the prospect of affecting 1,500 producers in 47 communities by the end of 2019, these efforts foster sustainable value chains and conservation in the Amer- ica’s second largest swath of remaining tropical forest.

BRAZIL Chocolate as a Conservation Strategy A new partnership with Mondelez, a multinational food and beverage company, will expand TNC’s sustainable cocoa projects in Brazil. Native to the Amazon, cocoa is a profitable crop that thrives in the shade of bananas, hardwoods and other native trees, allowing farmers to reforest degraded lands with crops. “The partnership offers a great © ROBERT CLARK opportunity to expand our efforts. Indeed, A lone Brazil nut tree, the beef sector as well. Scheduled updates the Pará region, which had one of the highest a protected species, will expand the tool to include the Chaco rates of deforestation in Brazil, has the po- survives on a soybean farm in Santarem, in the region of Argentina and Paraguay. The tool tential to become an example of sustainable Brazilian Amazon. supports implementation of the Cerrado development and restoration in the Amazon Manifesto launched in 2017, which is an rainforest,” says Rodrigo Freire, TNC’s urgent call to action to ensure soy and beef restoration coordinator. “Over the past five don’t contribute to deforestation and native years, we have supported the planting of vegetation conversion, signed by a growing 1,100 acres of cocoa agroforestry systems coalition of more than 100 global companies in the Amazon, benefiting more than 120 and investors. In addition, Bunge, Santand- families in southeastern Pará. Our goal is to er Brazil and TNC announced a first-of-its- reach 1,000 families in the next five years.” © KEVIN ARNOLD

38 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 39 PROVIDE FOOD AND WATER SUSTAINABLY

“We don’t live to conserve; we conserve to live”

Esteban Sandez Fishing Cooperative of Fishers and Divers, Baja California, Mexico.

BELIZE, EL SALVADOR, GUATEMALA, innovations spurred by ResCA—a suite of HONDURAS, NICARAGUA information and communication technolo- Resilient Central America gy tools that issue management recommen- From the peaks of the Maya Mountains dations and climate forecasts for Honduran to the depths of the Mesoamerican Reef, farmers growing dry bean crops in Cholu- Central America holds an astounding 7 teca and coffee crops in Copán—won the percent of the planet’s species in barely United Nations’ Momentum for Change 1 percent of the world’s Award. Led by the International Center surface. With support from for Tropical Agriculture, the application the U.S. State Department, collects, analyzes and delivers information the Resilient Central that allows farmers to understand and cope America (ResCA) initiative with climate conditions. Guided by the ap- spearheaded by TNC is plication, farmers know if, when and which piloting healthy agricultural systems to crop or crop varieties to plant. BOTH: © RANDY OLSON build climate change resiliency, conserve natural habitats and strengthen local PERU, CHILE, MEXICO BELIZE The fish market at Ancón, economies. Over the past year, we trained A Path to Sustainable Fishing Seaweed Farms Restore Peru, is benefiting from 2,530 people, strengthened 10 institutions Livelihoods and Habitat FishPath, a decision-mak- Ninety percent of the world’s fisheries lack ing tool developed by TNC and proposed 10 policies (two of which the basic data needed for good manage- Known as a superfood, seaweed is also very and partners. have already been adopted). One of the ment, putting them at risk from overfishing beneficial to the ecosystem. Much like for- and affecting both livelihoods and biodiver- ests of the sea, seaweed helps capture carbon sity. To help bring sustainability to Latin dioxide, filter water and provide nursery America’s fisheries, TNC has introduced habitat to wildlife, such as lobster, crabs and FishPath, an online decision-support tool parrotfish—some of the most economically developed by TNC and partners to help and ecologically important species in the fisheries assess, monitor and manage their Caribbean. By farming seaweed in the right resources. In collaboration with Peru’s way, ensuring proper design and siting, Marine Institute, TNC applied FishPath to we can restore coastal ecosystems while assess “chita” (Peruvian grunt) stocks and providing food and jobs. As part of a national identified the most effective sustainability fishery reform effort, TNC has worked with rules for the fishery. The Peruvian govern- fishing communities to establish pilot farms ment turned this recommendation into that serve as models for future expansion. policy by establishing an annual no-take In partnership with the Placencia Producers season for chita to reduce fishing pressure Cooperative Society Ltd., we have helped during the species’ peak of reproductive train and certify 41 coastal fishing commu- activity. FishPath is being applied to assess nity members—37 percent of whom are top: Mariko Wallen and Louis Godfrey tend to their seaweed farm in Belize. They grow two species: Eucheuma five other commercial species in Peru. Its women—in seaweed cultivation, a mandato- (for consumption) and Gracilaria (used for skin treat- success has extended to producing stock as- ry requirement for farm establishment. Les- ments and cosmetics). above: Julie Robinson, TNC’s ocean sessments and management strategies for sons learned and best management practices lead for Belize, joins them onshore with their harvest. fisheries at a national scale. Similar efforts will help underpin Belize’s national seaweed are being launched in Mexico and Chile. maricultural policy. © JASON HOUSTON

40 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 41 BUILD HEALTHY CITIES Thirsty Cities Turn to Nature

Water—or the lack thereof—unites disparate locations from Lima, to São Paulo to Mexico City. And water runs through the heart of The Nature Conservancy’s vision of a world where nature and people thrive together. “ Our rivers, wetlands Nature plays a critical role in the water cycle. Forests and forests provide vital and grasslands filter, replenish and keep water flows ecosystem services, such as steady. For many cities, protecting water at its source can flood mitigation, erosion be cheaper and more effective than treating it after it has reduction, biodiversity already been polluted. conservation and the The Conservancy’s Latin America program has led BOTH: © SCOTT WARREN the way in the creation of Water Funds, powerful tools protection of coastal that contribute to water security by enabling water areas. For this reason, they users like cities, businesses and utilities to invest in the should be considered key conservation of critical headwaters to protect their own components of our water water supplies and improve the health and well-being of infrastructure. This is why their communities. several forward-looking The need for this solution is immense as more than 40 cities in our region are percent of watersheds that supply the world’s cities are degraded due to deforestation, poor agriculture practices already adopting this green and other unsustainable land uses. One in four global infrastructure approach.” cities is already facing water stress, and water scarcity is Sergio Campos expected to increase as our global climate changes. Chief of the Water and Sanitation Protecting and restoring nature’s ability to provide clean Division, Inter-American Development Bank water can help turn the tide on water shortages in Latin America and around the world.

Drought and sedimentation of reservoirs is causing water stress in São Paulo, Brazil’s largest city. To decrease erosion in the watershed, about 32,000 acres of land were identified for reforestation.

42 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 43 BUILD HEALTHY CITIES

Water Funds A Proven Model Water Funds unite public, private and civil society stakeholders around the common goal of contributing to water security through nature-based Ready for Scale solutions and sustainable watershed management.

“ Water Funds connect people, governments and industries from different sectors to create a common vision and action plan for water security: one that values nature as a key part of the solution.” Incentives Juan Pablo del Valle Chairman, Mexichem; Co-Chair, Latin America Conservation Council Cash, technical assistance, materials

In the year 2000, TNC and Quito’s munic- 433 million people globally—could benefit ipal water company (EPMAPS) spearheaded from Water Funds, and they could fully Latin America’s first Water Fund to protect offset watershed treatment costs the incredibly biodiverse Andean grasslands through investment in conservation that supply water to 2 million people in alone. Ecuador’s capital. The benefits have been Over the past year we have taken manifold: reliable clean water, generation important steps to take this success- of income for good land stewards, renewed ful model for watershed governance, health of surrounding landscapes and wa- finance and conservation to scale. The terways—for people and wildlife—and large Conservancy, LAWFP and the Latin Amer- savings on costly water treatment. ica Conservation Council have launched The creation of the Latin American Water a National Accelerator platform, with the Funds Partnership (LAWFP) in 2011—a ambitious goal of expanding the rate of new collaboration among the Inter-American Water Fund development from 24 to 43 by Development Bank, the Global Environ- the year 2022. ment Facility, FEMSA Foundation and Colombia is serving as the first testing TNC—enabled us to refine the Water Fund ground, with the recent creation of the Wa- model, expanding it to new geographies and ter Coalition for Colombia—a multisectoral adapting it to diverse, new challenges. We alliance that brings together more than 300 improved its science, implemented monitor- partners from government, industry, finan- ing technology and gained global recognition cial sectors and NGOs. The coalition will as a model of impact and innovation. leverage collective action on science, policy, With a growing list of partners, we have corporate stewardship, finance and com- created 24 Water Funds in eight Latin munications to improve Colombia’s water American countries. More than 350 public security by strengthening Colombia’s seven and private partners have invested $164 existing Water Funds and spearheading the million in scientifically proven, targeted creation of eight new funds by 2022. conservation strategies. More than 525,000 We have also introduced a Water Funds acres have been conserved in vital water- Toolbox, a Water Funds Field Guide and an Upstream Watershed Downstream sheds. Nearly 24,000 families upstream online course to share knowledge and aid communities services water users have improved their livelihoods through the partners and others in launching new proj- adoption of sustainable practices. ects with or without TNC’s involvement. Stewards and providers Water purification, flood Beneficiaries of of watershed services risk mitigation, acquifer watershed services; TNC has replicated the Water Fund model With an approach that is efficient, proven, recharge, erosion reduction source of upstream in Africa, Asia, Australia and the United self-sustaining and replicable, Water Funds incentive funding States. However, Water Fund development is are one of the very few scalable models that not keeping pace with the need. We estimate can deliver water security solutions to our that roughly 690 cities—serving more than growing cities.

44 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY BUILD HEALTHY CITIES

Strength in Partners Building Capacity for Scaling Improved Livelihoods Securing Water for Mexico City Water Funds are about galvanizing the The relevance of Water Funds as a model An additional benefit of Water Funds lies in Exploding from 30 square miles in 1950 to power of partnerships and collective action for water security has never been greater. the potential to generate employment and roughly 3,000 square miles today, Mexico for water security. In December 2018, the Nature Conservancy experts have promoted enhance local capacity around sustainable City has become the largest city in North Latin American Water Funds Partnership this strategy at numerous global forums, management. For example, Lima’s Water America and one of the world’s most wa- welcomed the addition of a new partner: serving as speakers, panelists and trainers. Fund has worked with rural communities to ter-stressed cities. Water scarcity affects 20 Women from San Pedro de above center: A gardener Laraos, a rural community the International Climate Initiative (IKI), Water Funds took center stage at the 2018 recover ancestral water seeding systems that percent of Mexico City’s 21 million inhab- works at a nursery run in the Andean highlands of adding a government actor that will not World Water Forum in Brasilia, which improve water security during the dry season. itants. One in five residents gets just a few by the São Paulo state Peru, hold native quenual only contribute resources, but will enhance brought together nearly 100,000 partici- Rio’s Water Fund has supported new ecotour- hours from their taps a week. The water water company (SABESP). saplings used for refor- Water Funds’ roles in building climate pants from 172 countries to discuss water ism opportunities for rural communities in extracted annually from the city’s aquifers is TNC has partnered estation efforts that help with SABESP to reforest safeguard their dwindling adaptation and resilience. We are testing security. Other events included World Water the Guandu watershed, including capacity more than double their recharge. Launched degraded riparian areas water sources. a new model to create Water Funds in a Week in Stockholm; the First National building to service the growing number of last April, Agua Capital, Mexico City’s new in watersheds that supply more efficient and faster way, which we are Water Congress in Bogota, Colombia; the bird-watching tourists and a new field guide. Water Fund, will improve water manage- water to the city of São Paulo and surrounding piloting with new partners. Anheuser-Busch Inter-American Conference of Mayors in In Colombia’s Cauca Valley, the Agua por la ment and catalyze conservation in targeted communities. InBev will support the development of four Miami; and COP24 in Katowice, Poland. To Vida Water Fund has helped more than 1,500 watersheds and forests. Seven of the city’s above: Aerial view of new Water Funds in Colombia, El Salva- facilitate global replication, TNC and part- rural families learn to use agroforestry and Water Fund members—Mexichem, Citibana- Mexico City. A new Water dor, Argentina and Mexico. Support from ners released a Water Funds Toolbox, a step- sustainable ranching practices, which involve mex, Coca-Cola FEMSA, FEMSA Founda- Fund will help the city use Coca-Cola’s Latin business unit will help us by-step online guide for developing Water growing crops and grazing livestock in areas tion, Grupo Modelo, HSBC and TNC—have natural solutions to face its water crisis. strengthen three Water Funds in Santiago, Funds, which features videos, templates and interspersed with trees and other vegeta- pledged $1.7 million as seed capital for start- Chile; Mendoza, Argentina; and Lima, Peru; case studies to guide practitioners through tion. The strategy reduces sediment runoff, up costs and a 2,000-acre restoration pilot. and begin feasibility studies for Uruguay’s all stages of Water Fund development. Fif- preserves natural habitat and improves soil first Water Fund in Montevideo. ty-five water experts from 10 Latin Ameri- health, while also bolstering food security can countries attended the first in-person and incomes through increased agricultural training in Lima, Peru. output for many families.

46 | THE NATURE CONSERVANCY 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 47 BUILD HEALTHY CITIES

© FAMM Urban Planning with Nature Aerial view of the water In the 1950s, Monterrey was a small city of purification plant, pro- cessing water from the 300,000 people. Today, it has 4.5 million in- Cantareira system, which habitants. The city’s rapid industrialization, provides 50 percent of explosive growth and urban sprawl have São Paulo’s drinking water. Part of the São Paulo urban created major stresses for people and na- area can be seen beyond ture. Polluted air causes frequent haze and the water treatment smog. Wildlife is pushed into ever smaller, facility. more isolated pockets. And the city has below: Volunteers from faced devastating water issues alternating TNC’s corporate partners from hurricane season flooding to severe above: With the Sierra planted more than 1,000 Madre as its backyard, native trees to help safe- droughts. How can nature help Monterrey Monterrey is called “the guard water sources for become a more resilient and thriving place? City of the Mountains.” Its the San Jose metropolitan breathtaking topography area, Costa Rica. To answer this question, TNC is convening partners around a greenprint effort—our invites a close connection to nature. © SCOTT WARREN first pilot in Latin America. A greenprint is a strategic conservation plan that reveals the economic and social benefits that parks All Hands on Reforestation in the Cantareira Water Supply System— and open space provide communities, such Our corporate partners are increasingly the primary water source for São Paulo’s as recreation opportunities, habitat protec- involving their employees in their social 22 million people. The research showed tion, water regulation and resilience to cli- responsibility efforts. In 2018, more than that restoring 9,900 acres of native mate change. Inspiration for the potential 1,000 employees from Coca-Cola, Pepsi- forest and maintaining existing vegeta- of natural-based solutions already exists in Co, Ecolab, FEMSA and AmBev (among tion can reduce soil erosion by roughly Monterrey. The Great Park Rio La Silla was others) participated in 10 volunteer 36 percent, which in turn reduces the conceived as a major attenuation tank for events, planting 13,350 trees to restore sediment load in the Cantareira river floodwaters during heavy rain to protect its 60 acres in six countries, focusing on pri- system, yielding a 28 percent return surrounding neighborhoods from flooding. ority areas defined by Water Funds. More on investment for the water company Even the city’s football stadium is playing a than 100 volunteers from Arca Conti- due to cost savings in water treatment. part: The parking lot is designed to absorb nental collected 1,800 pounds of trash Similarly, in Rio de Janeiro our study rainwater runoff with swales (natural areas at the Paluguillo Reserve, an important showed the restoration of 7,400 acres where plants and soil absorb rain) and water source for Quito, Ecuador. would translate into a 13 percent return permeable pavements. Lessons learned in on investment, generating approximate- Monterrey will be invaluable to our rapidly Quantifying Nature’s Benefits ly $39 million in savings to Rio’s public urbanizing world. New research studies confirmed that water company over a 30-year period. In investing in nature-based solutions is Quito, Ecuador, a return on investment © ANA GUZMAN/TNC a cost-efficient alternative for water carried out by EPMAPS, TNC and part- security. A recent study by the World ners found $2 in savings for each dollar Resources Institute, TNC and partners invested in conservation actions over a quantified the role of forest restoration 20-year period.

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he Nature Conservancy is showing us Ta path forward where both people and nature thrive together. Our work in Chile is a perfect example: We are protecting ancient forests at our magnificent Valdivia Coastal Reserve while implementing a pioneering climate action program. We are safeguarding the biodiversity-rich wetlands that provide clean water to our country’s capital. We are sharing science-based tools with fishers to ensure our ocean may continue to sustain future generations. I am honored to be part of TNC because of its vision, its commitment to innovation and its ability to rally allies across sectors. Please join us. Together we can leave a healthier planet for our children.

Marion Von Appen Trustee of The Nature Conservancy Chile Program

left: Alerce trees, which can live for 4,000 years, are one of the treasures of the Valdivian Coastal Reserve in Chile.

back cover: Healthy coral reefs like these near Puerto Morelos, Mexico, take the brunt of pounding waves and act as natural seawalls against storms, shielding tourist hot spots on the Caribbean coast.

LEFT: © NICK HALL BACK COVER: © JENNIFER ADLER 2018 LATIN AMERICA ANNUAL REPORT | 51 Conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends.

2018 LATIN AMERICA Solving with Nature ANNUAL Nature.org/LatinAmerica | TNC.org.br REPORT | TNCLatinoamerica | TNCLatinAmerica