To build stoves we organized into groups of eight and in one day of work we built eight stoves. We can now cook without smoke in the house. This is especially good for the children who no longer have to breathe in the smoke.

—Diana Soto in Honduras, mother whose family enjoys the benefits of a clean-burning stove

Overview

Collaboration for Community Conservation

In collaboration with local groups, EcoLogic protects forests and water resources by strengthening sustainable livelihoods, payment for ecosystem services opportunities, and community self-determination. Our decision to engage in a specific location depends on the presence of:

threatened priority conservation areas with documented high levels of species diversity
local populations living in poverty with demonstrated interest in working for change
a local NGO or community organization with capacity and vision to further conservation-led development

The effectiveness of our approach stems from the long-term partnerships in which we engage. These partnerships form the basis for leveraging the financial and technical resources needed to enhance local governance of conservation areas and the expansion of sustainable livelihood alternatives. Our collaborative approach has resulted in a strong record in:

encouraging local stewardship and advocacy in defense of protected areas
building community capacity to stop illegal extraction of resources
reducing local encroachment on conservation areas