Bahia, Brazil

With over 95% of the Atlantic Forest, Brazil’s most endangered biome, already lost in southern Bahia, expanding private nature reserves will be crucial to preserving this ecosystem.

The project protects unique biodiversity, including the critically endangered Yellow-breasted Capuchin Monkey (fewer than 3,000 left) and Banded Cotinga (fewer than 1,000). It also safeguards Brazil’s flagship Golden-headed Lion Tamarin and the Wied’s Marmoset.

The expanded reserve will reward smallholder farmers for conserving intact forests and encourage more shade-grown cacao.