Implemented by UNESCO with the support of LVMH, the Amazon Biosphere Reserves Project seeks to protect biodiversity, regenerate ecosystems, and enhance sustainable livelihoods for local and Indigenous communities. Since 2021, it has supported more than 70 initiatives across eight biosphere reserves in Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru—covering 5% of the Amazon Basin and incorporating 86 protected areas. By integrating scientific and local knowledge, the project reinforces conservation efforts, mitigates deforestation, and advances sustainable resource stewardship.
It also actively engages young leaders, recognizing that their participation is essential for the long-term resilience of these critical ecosystems. By fostering inclusive dialogues and equipping youth with the tools to contribute to decision-making processes, the project ensures that conservation and sustainable development initiatives remain relevant, impactful, and driven by the next generation.
Implemented by UNESCO with the support of LVMH, the Amazon Biosphere Reserves Project seeks to protect biodiversity, regenerate ecosystems, and enhance sustainable livelihoods for local and Indigenous communities. Since 2021, it has supported more than 70 initiatives across eight biosphere reserves in Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru—covering 5% of the Amazon Basin and incorporating 86 protected areas. By integrating scientific and local knowledge, the project reinforces conservation efforts, mitigates deforestation, and advances sustainable resource stewardship.
It also actively engages young leaders, recognizing that their participation is essential for the long-term resilience of these critical ecosystems. By fostering inclusive dialogues and equipping youth with the tools to contribute to decision-making processes, the project ensures that conservation and sustainable development initiatives remain relevant, impactful, and driven by the next generation.
As part of UNESCO’s commitment to strengthening coordination and governance across Amazon biosphere reserves, the Amazon Biosphere Reserves Project is proud to launch the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge. This initiative aims to empower young people and youth networks to have an important role and voice in shaping a sustainable future for the Amazon biosphere reserves.
Through the Challenge, youth participants will be guided and supported to develop their own innovative and original ideas and solutions towards the sustainable development of Amazon biosphere reserves. Program activities include training, workshops, field work, mentoring, team assignments and much more!
Supporting youth in designing and executing solutions that directly address critical water related challenges.
Connecting youths with communities, governments, and organizations for collaborative action.
Empowering youths to become advocates for water sustainability, amplifying their voices on global platforms.
On behalf of UNESCO, it is my great pleasure to invite you to join the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge. The program offers a unique opportunity for young people in Ecuador to drive real change in one of the country’s most vital ecosystems: the Podocarpus-El Cóndor Biosphere Reserve. We challenge you to develop and implement your own innovative water solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future for the Amazon and its communities. Your creativity, leadership, and commitment will shape the resilience of our shared water resources for generations to come. Good luck to you all!
Dr. Hans Dencker Thulstrup,
UNESCO Chief of the Section on MAB Networking: Biosphere Reserves and Capacity Building
Participants will gain key knowledge through expert-led sessions and hands-on workshops.
Visits to biosphere reserves will deepen understanding of water challenges and local dynamics.
Mentors will guide teams to ensure their solutions are effective and impactful.
Teams will develop, pitch, and refine ideas, receiving feedback from experts and stakeholders.
Participants will execute pilot projects, with support for implementation and seed funding.
We are excited to announce the first edition of the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge to be held in Ecuador. Launching in April 2025, the program is inviting youth, students and young professionals in Ecuador to develop innovative water solutions for the Podocarpus-El Cóndor Biosphere Reserve.
Are you Ecuadorian, younger than 35 and passionate to contribute to sustainability in your country, sign-up for the program! Registration is now open. Apply no later than 19 April!
Throughout the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge – Ecuador 2025, participants, mentors, and partners have come together to learn, collaborate,...
After weeks of training, field visits, mentoring, and solution development, the first phase of the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge...
Following the concept presentations at the end of Field Week, the six participating teams have now entered the next critical...
From 16 to 19 May 2025, the 24 participants of the UNESCO Amazon Water Resilience Challenge – Ecuador 2025 gathered...
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