In the Andes mountains, a significant reforestation initiative is aiming to plant millions of polylepis trees, known as “cloud trees,” as part of efforts to restore critical ecosystems and support local communities.
Polylepis trees, which grow at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters, play a vital role in absorbing moisture from clouds and melting glaciers before slowly releasing it, nourishing mountain streams that feed into the Amazon River. Unfortunately, centuries of deforestation have drastically reduced the polylepis forests, with only an estimated 500,000 hectares remaining.
Dr. Constantino Aucca Chutas, a Peruvian biologist and co-founder of Acción Andina, felt compelled to protect his ancestral lands, asserting, “I’m proud of being an Inca descendant. We have to pass this magnificent nature to new generations.”
In 2018, Aucca established a joint initiative with Global Forest Generation and Asociacion Ecosistemas Andinos, aimed at restoring highland forests across multiple South American countries, including Peru and Ecuador. The project’s goal is to protect and restore one million hectares of native Andean forest by 2045. So far, the initiative has resulted in over 10 million trees being planted with the help of local families.
A key component of the reforestation efforts is the annual Queuña Raymi festival, held in the valleys surrounding Cusco. During the festival, community members of all ages participate in cultural rituals celebrating Pachamama, or “Mother Earth,” and work together to plant polylepis saplings.
Each year, volunteers have successfully planted thousands of trees, employing traditional propagation techniques. The initiative emphasizes using local species, as the characteristics of polylepis trees can vary across different regions.
To ensure the newly planted trees’ survival, Acción Andina implements protective measures, including fencing and programs to prevent fires. Local community knowledge plays a crucial role in these efforts, as residents have lifelong experience observing tree growth and forest management.
In return for their contributions, Acción Andina offers support to these communities, such as medical care and the installation of solar panels to improve access to electricity. They also assist in securing land rights and establishing protected areas for native forests.
Recognized as a model for community-based conservation, Acción Andina won Prince William’s Earthshot Prize in 2024 for its efforts to “Protect and Restore Nature.” Aucca was also honored as a “Champion of the Earth” by the UN in 2022.
“Community-led restoration exemplifies how collaboration can enhance conservation efforts and create jobs,” noted Elizabeth Mrema, deputy executive director of the UN Environment Programme.
Polylepis forests provide immense ecological benefits, such as preventing soil erosion and retaining moisture, making the preservation of these trees essential for water security. Aucca believes that a collective and unified approach is vital for successful conservation efforts, stating, “It’s the only way conservation will succeed. Protecting Mother Earth is a responsibility for all of us.”
