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Sandra Anccasi Lazo - Peruvian, Latin America and the Caribbean

2017 Winner | | Peruvian

Although the Tambopata National Reserve is a protected natural area in Peru, it was invaded by gold miners who entered the area illegally, destroying thousands of hectares of rainforest and contaminating the food chain with mercury, leaving behind arid land with no signs of life. The miners have been evicted from these areas with the help of constant monitoring activities, but the pioneer tree species that were present prior to the mining activities still need to be restored. The forest will then regenerate and fauna will return to the area, so that rural and native communities living in the region can work in eco-tourism. This forest is a beautiful landscape that must be recognized and protected.

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My name is Sandra Natividad Anccasi Lazo and I am 29 years old. I was born in the city of Huancayo in Peru, then I moved to the rainforest with my mother, grandmother and younger siblings, where I grew up and was educated. I am currently studying for a degree in forest and environmental engineering at the National Amazonian University of Madre de Dios. I am carrying out research at an NGO called AIDER whose work involves conservation of the Amazon rainforest, sustainable development and gender equality. Soon I will be graduating from university and this research forms the basis for my thesis.

Disclaimer: NOTE: This content was shared online for the 2019 cycle of the Young Champions of the Earth programme and has not been updated. This listing does not constitute any endorsement by nor status with the UN Environment Programme.

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