Over the last 20 years, SebastiĆ£o Salgado's family property in Minas Gerais, Brazil, has changed significantly, turning into a thriving ecosystem, all thanks to the dedicated efforts of Instituto Terra. In 2001, Salgado, with his wife LĆ©lia and a team of volunteers, started a bold project: planting 20 million trees across 1,500 acres of once barren hillsides. The landscape, previously damaged by deforestation, has slowly but steadily recovered.
Founded in 1998 by Salgado and LĆ©lia, Instituto Terra played a crucial role in environmental restoration, going beyond just planting trees. The institute takes a comprehensive approach to sustainable rural development and ecosystem revitalization in the challenging terrain of the Rio Doce Valley.
Instituto Terra's impact is evident in the renewed self-sustaining ecosystem that now houses a diverse array of flora and fauna. Remarkably, rare and endangered species such as ocelots, purple-breasted parrots, and the Atlantic titi have made a successful return, marking a significant achievement in wildlife conservation.
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The institute's initiatives align with global sustainability goals, notably contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 15 - Life on Land. Actively involved in biodiversity restoration, combating land degradation, and advocating for sustainable land-use practices, Instituto Terra embodies a commitment to global environmental aspirations.
Beyond its immediate environmental impact, Instituto Terra's success story goes beyond borders. It serves as a tangible example of the transformative potential inherent in environmental initiatives. Through collaborative projects and ongoing endeavors, Instituto Terra emerges as a catalyst in the global movement toward a more sustainable and interconnected planet.
More information: https://institutoterra.org
Video credits: Instituto Terra
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