The Ministry of the Environment of Peru reported that 96% of the Protected Natural Areas (PNA) are in good conservation status. This result reflects the joint work between the State, local communities, and allied organizations that protect biodiversity.
Through Sernanp, it was highlighted that the PNA play a fundamental role in the conservation of the country’s biological diversity. In total, they protect more than 1,700 species of birds, almost all of those registered in Peruvian territory.
Recent Discoveries
In the last five years, more than 50 new species for science have been identified within the PNA:
- Beetles in the Manu National Park.
- New varieties of orchids in the Yanachaga Chemillén National Park.
- Amazonian frogs in the Alto Purús National Park.
- Reptiles in the Cotahuasi Sub-basin Landscape Reserve.
One of the most relevant findings was that of the Pudu carlae, a small deer endemic to Peru that inhabits protected forests in the central and northern parts of the country.
Biological Wealth
Peru is home to 5,738 species of fauna, many of which are conserved in the PNA:
- 263 species of reptiles.
- 312 species of amphibians.
- 1,758 species of birds.
- 447 species of mammals.
In birds, the PNA concentrate almost all the species identified in the country, out of a total of 1,896 registered nationwide.
Ecological and Climatic Function
The PNA are also natural indicators of climate change:
- In the Andes, peatlands, lichens, and mosses are monitored, as they are sensitive to temperature and humidity variations.
- In the Amazon, forests function as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating global warming.
Strategic Value
The Ministry of the Environment reminded that biodiversity is a strategic asset for the country, as it promotes:
- Sustainable tourism (example: Paracas National Reserve).
- Scientific research and environmental education.
- Generation of local employment.
- International positioning of Peru as a natural destination of global relevance.
Importance of the PNA
Protected Natural Areas cover more than 17% of the national territory and fulfill essential functions:
- Conservation of biodiversity: they protect unique ecosystems and endangered species.
- Ecosystem services and water: they ensure the quality and quantity of water for more than 3 million people and supply 60% of the country’s hydroelectric energy.
- Sustainable development: they promote tourism, sustainable agriculture, and green jobs.
- Climate change mitigation: they prevent natural disasters by protecting watersheds and soils.
- Scientific and cultural value: they preserve natural and cultural heritage, in addition to being spaces for research.
The National System of Protected Natural Areas by the State (SINANPE), managed by Sernanp, includes national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries that are vital for Peru’s sustainable future. The good conservation status of 96% of the PNA reaffirms the country as a world power in biodiversity and as a benchmark in the protection of ecosystems against climate change.
