Organization

Amazônia has its origins at the end of the last century. In those years, the world saw the birth of the first movements against globalization and the exploitation of environmental resources, as well as the publication of the Kyoto Protocol. There was talk of environmentalism and ecology but the perception of the connection between distant habitats was not yet widespread among the public. Unaware that something new was going on, people with different backgrounds, experiences, and nationalities headed for the same place in the world.

It was in the heart of the Amazon rainforest that an encounter that changed the lives of many people took place - in the small village of Xixuaú, nestled in a lush, intact primary forest, but not immune to degradation and threats of deforestation. Europeans and natives here understand that they share a common goal and establish a pact of trust that will allow them to protect their forest. Forever.

The birth of Amazônia is the direct result of the encounter with the peoples of the forest. After years of scientific research in the Amazon, Emanuela Evangelista founds the organization together with a small group of experts, connoisseurs, and passionate defenders of both the forest and its peoples.

Amazônia grows and builds networks and alliances, meeting new partners in Italy, Brazil and England, including big names in conservation such as Ghillean Prance, John Hemming, Bianca Jagger and Tessa Gelisio. At the same time, it continues to support the peoples of the forest with concrete actions, training, health, income, and support in the struggle for the creation of a large protected area.

The first visit of a local inhabitant to Europe brings the voice of the peoples of the forest while receiving media attention and the “Bosco for Kyoto” prize at the Capitol in Rome. In Brazil, Amazônia stimulates the birth of Coop Xixuaú, a local cooperative intended to generate income from low environmental impact activities. We also support the construction of the Xixuaú Amazon Ecolodge, focusing on community ecotourism for sustainable development.

Amazônia's work receives the recognition of the Italian Legambiente as its president is appointed Environmentalist of the year. The importance of forests for the planet's climate balance is still a little-known fact to the public but we work hard to bring attention to the topic through various events, such as photography exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and workshops in schools.

The Maryba project is launched in collaboration with Italian Trentino Insieme Association and with the support of the Autonomous Province of Trento. This project will bring the peoples of the forest numerous opportunities for sustainable development and exchange: food supply chains, crafts, scientific research, South-South collaborations with African nations, vocational training, and environmental education.

Once again, the natives bring their voice to Europe to claim the defense of their forest.

Starting from the small village of Xixuaú, Amazônia's interventions reach 4 river basins, 5 million hectares of forest and come to benefit traditional communities and indigenous Yanomami groups. CoopXixuaú grows, acquiring river transportation, satellite connections. Its model attracts other neighboring communities.

Finally, after 17 years of struggle - the involvement of 14 native communities and almost 2000 local inhabitants, petitions, promising institutional meetings and numerous disappointments, the region obtains the definitive status of a protected area. The Lower Rio Branco-Jauaperi Extractive Reserve is born: 600 thousand hectares of primary forest, torn from deforestation and protected on a long term.

Amazônia's work is recognized by the President of the Italian Republic, who bestows on the founder Emanuela Evangelista the high honor of Officer of the Order of Merit. The Covid-19 emergency severely hits the populations of the forest and Amazônia acts promptly to inform and supply the villages with food and basic supplies, helping to save many lives.