In the indigenous territory of Sarayaku, in Ecuador, the jungle is regrowing. There, the women of the community are promoting reforestation with an ecological focus, combining environmental care, autonomy, and ancestral memory.
By the end of 2025, the work was already showing significant results. On one hand, they collected more than 250,000 native seeds. On the other, they managed to germinate and plant more than 200,000 specimens.
This effort does not seek to expand indiscriminately. On the contrary, it relies on community and ecological decisions. In this way, it prioritizes key species for daily life.
Selective restoration in the face of climate change
The initiative began at the end of 2023 as a response to a growing problem. Over time, many essential plants had moved away from the communities. Therefore, it was decided to restore what was being lost.
Unlike massive reforestation, the project is selective. Thus, it recovers medicinal, fruit, timber, and ornamental species. These plants support local food, health, and culture.
Moreover, climate change and floods altered traditional crops. Consequently, the chakras became impoverished. In response, restoration became a resilience strategy.
A living territory sustained by ancestral knowledge
The project is developed over more than 144,000 hectares of the Sarayaku territory. There, rotating groups of women traverse the jungle every two months. In this way, they collect seeds, care for nurseries, and carry out new plantings.
At the same time, the work is accompanied by practical training. Thus, knowledge about composting, seeds, and conservation is strengthened. The knowledge is not concentrated but circulates within the community.
One of the most visible achievements is the recovery of the wayuri. This plant is essential for the roofs of traditional homes. Thanks to the project, it is now growing again near the homes.
Medicinal plants, food, and territorial sovereignty
For years, many medicinal plants were relegated to distant areas. However, the project managed to bring them back to the community. In this way, autonomy in health and care is reinforced.
The planting of wild fruit trees was also prioritized. These were planted in community paths and school spaces. Thus, environmental restoration and education are integrated.
In 2025, the focus was on ensuring the survival of what was planted. Then, towards the end of the year, seed collection resumed. With this, a greater expansion is prepared for 2026.
Benefits of an initiative that looks to the long term
This process strengthens the resilience of the Amazon rainforest. By restoring native species, it improves biodiversity and soil. Additionally, it helps regulate water and local climate.
At the same time, it reinforces community self-sufficiency. The recovered plants reduce dependence on external resources. Therefore, the project impacts food and health sovereignty.
Finally, the initiative consolidates the role of women. They lead the defense of the territory through care and knowledge. Thus, reforestation becomes a legacy for future generations.
A commitment that grows with the jungle
The project has a projection of between four and six years. This is because the jungle needs time to heal. However, the first results are already visible.
Beyond the figures, Sarayaku reaffirms its bond with the territory. The ecological restoration becomes an act of cultural defense. And thus, the jungle grows again with the help of its guardians.
