What is it about?
The Amazon is one of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, but human activities such as deforestation, mining, and dam construction are breaking the natural connections between its forests, rivers, and wetlands. This study mapped the impacts of these activities and showed that areas managed by Indigenous peoples and protected areas have far stronger ecological connections than unprotected regions. These connections are essential for wildlife movement, nutrient cycles, and climate regulation. The research highlights that only 14–16% of Indigenous and protected lands are affected by human activities, compared to 38% of unprotected areas. Strengthening governance and supporting Indigenous and community-led stewardship are cost-effective strategies for conserving the Amazon’s biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of its ecosystems in the face of growing environmental pressures.
Featured Image
Photo by Alexander Van Steenberge on Unsplash
Why is it important?
This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of how Indigenous Territories and Protected Areas preserve the ecological connections that sustain the Amazon basin. It shows that these lands not only prevent deforestation but also maintain the natural flows of water, nutrients, and species that are vital for biodiversity, climate regulation, and local livelihoods. The findings are especially timely as the Amazon faces increasing threats from infrastructure projects, illegal mining, and policy setbacks that weaken environmental protections. By demonstrating the critical role of Indigenous and community-led stewardship, the research offers clear evidence that empowering local communities and strengthening governance are essential for safeguarding the Amazon’s resilience and the global benefits it provides.
Perspectives
In the context of climate change and growing pressures on the Amazon, especially when working with community-led conservation, the results presented in this paper strongly reinforce the critical role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in conservation. I hope it contributes to both integrating connectivity into conservation strategies and highlighting the importance of strengthening community-led initiatives in a rapidly changing world.
CAMILA DUARTE RITTER
Intituto Juruá
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Indigenous territories and protected areas are crucial for ecosystem connectivity in the Amazon basin, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, July 2025, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2418189122.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
