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Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.

On April 15th, our founder Ben Valks was in The Hague, Netherlands, representing the Black Jaguar Foundation during the Lunch Lecture organized by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). The event brought together representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Agriculture, as well as experts from the Partners for Water program. 

Alongside Professor Marielos Peña Claros, a leading expert in Forest Ecology and Forest Management at Wageningen University, Ben shared BJF’s mission: to restore the world’s longest biodiversity corridor, connecting the Amazon Rainforest to the Brazilian Cerrado along a 2,600 km stretch. 

During the event, participants learned how reforestation goes far beyond environmental impact. It transforms lives, creates jobs, and promotes sustainable development that bridges science and local knowledge. 

Professor Marielos emphasized the importance of science-based ecological restoration, highlighting the use of native species, the value of Indigenous and community knowledge, and the need to build a supply chain for seeds and seedlings — pillars that also guide BJF’s work in the Araguaia region. 

This international dialogue further strengthens our cause: to regenerate ecosystems, inspire people, and generate real impact for the planet and future generations. 

Watch the full lecture on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQ6NTyTFFvw 

Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.

The third visit by representatives from Caixa Econômica Federal – Palmas branch – to the Araguaia Biodiversity Corridor was marked by moments of listening, connection, and inspiration. Over the course of two days, teams from Caixa and the Black Jaguar Foundation visited restoration sites, seedling nurseries, and communities that are part of Ressemear – the Araguaia Seed Network. 

On April 15th, the journey began in Marianópolis (TO) with a visit to PA Piracema, where seed collectors shared their stories and experiences with the project. Later, in Caseara, the team had the opportunity to meet members of the urban seed collection group, in a gathering focused on mutual listening and knowledge exchange. 

The next day, April 16th, in Santana do Araguaia (PA), the team started the day with a visit to the Black Jaguar Foundation’s Forest Nursery, where they observed up close the production of native seedlings that will bring the next planting season to life. 

Afterwards, they visited a restoration site on a rural property, guided by a BJF field analyst. On site, they were able to compare different stages of vegetation regeneration and witness the tangible results of the restoration efforts. 

The journey concluded with an inspiring conversation with the seed collector group from the Barreira do Campo region. Local residents shared their stories, showing how restoration has transformed realities and created a positive impact in the community.

The Black Jaguar Foundation believes in the power of partnerships to transform landscapes and lives. Visits like this reinforce the shared purpose of regenerating the Araguaia and creating a legacy for future generations. 

Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.

From May 6th to 9th, Black Jaguar Foundation and Ressemear took part in the 4th Redário Gathering, held in Nova Xavantina, Mato Grosso. 

Laís D’Isep, seed production analyst, and Célia Guimarães, a seed collector from Ressemear, joined the four days of intense programming. It was a time for learning, sharing experiences, and strengthening connections among those who make ecological restoration happen on the ground. 

On the first day, we visited the herbarium and seed lab at UNEMAT, as well as the headquarters of the Xingu Seed Network. We got a close look at technologies developed by collectors, such as seed processing machines built by Wanderley, a specialist in baru seed processing. 

On the second day, we followed presentations on Redário’s 2024 activities, heard inspiring testimonials from women seed collectors, and visited areas restored through the “muvuca” method and agroforestry systems. 

The third day brought important discussions about network organization, safety during seed collection, and restoration experiences in different territories. We also took part in a small “muvuquinha” and visited the Rio das Mortes, one of the region’s iconic rivers. 

On the final day, the focus was on lessons learned and planning the next steps: discussion circles on pricing, the role of technical staff, tools like the Redário app, and suggestions for future gatherings. 

Participating in this event was an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ecological restoration and to those on the front lines: the native seed collectors. 

Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.

The results of the 2024/2025 planting season are in – and they bring great news! 

We’ve made significant progress in the Araguaia Biodiversity Corridor, with over 200 hectares restored and 25 km of watercourses protected. Since the project’s inception, more than 1.2 million trees have been planted in the Corridor! 

Our work across 12 farms along the corridor has been key to expanding our impact. Thousands of native trees have been planted, respecting local biodiversity and strengthening the reconnection between the Cerrado and Amazon biomes.  

This season has also brought benefits for people: over 70 jobs were created, both directly and indirectly, boosting the local economy and promoting sustainable development. 

Together, we are making a difference! Every tree planted and every action taken is an important step for the future. 

Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.

We are excited to introduce our new partner: the UBS Optimus Foundation! A global network of social and philanthropic foundations, connecting you to inspiring philanthropic programs that, supported by data and sustainable impact investments, are making a measurable and long-term difference in addressing the world’s most serious and persistent social and environmental challenges.

The UBS Optimus Foundation is funded by UBS, our clients, employees, as well as public and private partners. Their collective mission is to amplify the impact of contributions to philanthropic foundations.

This is why UBS Optimus Foundation has joined forces with Black Jaguar Foundation in implementing the Araguaia Biodiversity Corridor: quality ecological restoration to recover ecosystems and create a positive impact on local communities in the Araguaia region and across the globe.

Learn more about the UBS Optimus Foundation.

Would you like to join us in realizing one of the longest biodiversity corridors on Earth? Become one of the First 600 to join our mission of hope and action HERE.