A Regenerative Bioeconomy Model Led by Amazonian Women
In the Ecuadorian Amazon, a group of 80 women protects the macambo trees, cares for the forest, and keeps ancestral knowledge alive. With their help, “Guardianas de la Selva” of the Forest was born—a project that transforms conservation into a sustainable economic opportunity. Guardianas de la Selva, a project that transforms conservation into a sustainable economic opportunity
What is macambo?
Macambo (Theobroma bicolor) is an ancient superfood, rich in omega fatty acids, fiber, and plant-based protein. Native to the rainforest and harvested only once a year, it represents a nutritional and cultural treasure that has historically been undervalued. Today, thanks to this project, it is making its way into international gourmet markets.
Social and Environmental Impact
Guardianas de la Selva is not just a production project:
- It empowers Amazonian women training, technical assistance, and fair trade.
- It conserves biodiversity,by protecting more than 5,000 hectares of forest over the next five years.
- It generates sustainable income, strengthening community leadership and creating transparent value chains.
Innovation and Partnerships
With support from Ancestral, Kallari y GIZ, innovation initiatives are being implemented in the areas of cacao and macambo, sustainable production infrastructure, and logistics from Amazonian communities to international markets. This model integrates ancestral knowledge with modern technology, demonstrating that conservation can be profitable and transformative.
Value Proposition
“Guardianas de la Selva” redefines the relationship between the economy and nature:
- Biodiversity transformed into economic value.
- Real social impact on Amazonian communities.
- Premium products with traceability and authenticity.
The future of the economy is regenerative, and in the Ecuadorian Amazon, it’s already underway. “Guardianas de la Selva” is more than just a project: it’s a movement that brings together tradition, sustainability, and haute cuisine.