Ecuador is globally recognized for its rich biodiversity thanks to its tropical rainforests, the presence of Andes, and the influence of the ocean’s currents on its coasts. Around 42% of the total national surface area is covered by forests. Despite that, the country suffers from a high rate of biodiversity loss with a long list of endangered and vulnerable species. Overexploitation, illegal wildlife trafficking, urban expansion, and illegal logging activities are among the causes that keep taking a heavy toll on the fauna and flora of Ecuador.

While conservation efforts across the globe have been increasing in the recent years, a remarkable part of that is based on conservation without people in which the region of interest is cut off from the human interaction and local communities are asked to leave the place. This approach disregards the close and profound relationship of indigenous communities and their surrounding environment, the conservation capacities of indigenous communities, as well as their traditional ecological knowledge and cultural values.

Kichwa people of Napo region in Ecuador, are among indigenous communities who have initiated conservation activities. The community, which has lived in harmony with its surrounding nature for hundreds of years, is now involved in various conservation projects including wildlife rehabilitation and reintroduction to nature, forest restoration and enrichment, and increasing environmental awareness through promoting activities at schools and communities. This work documents the activities implemented by Kichwa community to prevent further damage to their ecosystem and to rehabilitate their surrounding environment.