Protect your Ecosystem with Rainforest Concern

We are so pleased to announce that we are partnering with Rainforest Concern through 1% for the planet. A charity founded in 1993 whose mission is to protect threatened natural habitats and the biodiversity they contain, together with the indigenous people who depend on them for survival.

Rainforest Concern is committed to delivering environmental education both in their project areas and in the UK. They research and monitor the habitats to help steer their conservation approach and provide an in-depth understanding of the rainforest. They currently work in eight countries; Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Belize, Chile, Romania and India across a variety of critical habitats, supporting and preserving vast biodiversity.

Why did we choose Rainforest Concern? 

Rainforest Concern carries out incredible work across the globe. What really stood out to us is the work they do in South America, as the continent plays such an important role at Ancient + Brave, and here is why. 

We source a number of our organic ingredients from South America. These ingredients are approved by the Soil Association - where organic farming meets the highest standards. Our Santos coffee beans are from Brazil. ‘Santos’ is named after the coastal city Santos in southern Brazil's São Paulo state. The cacao in our Cacao + Collagen is sourced from Peru. Peru is the ninth-largest producer of cacao in the world. Cacao is typically grown in the basin of the Amazon Rainforest and at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. 

Over half of the tropical forests worldwide have been destroyed since the 1960s, and every second, more than one hectare of tropical forests is destroyed or drastically degraded; at this rate, they could be gone within your lifetime. Rainforest Concern has helped to protect over 2.2 million hectares (5 million acres) of threatened  rainforest around the world since the charity was founded 27 years ago. Deforestation is such a huge concern as it contributes to an unstable climate, loss of habitat and biodiversity, global warming and increased risk of flooding… to name a few.

Unsustainable agriculture is a major cause of forest deforestation. Poor agricultural practices lead to soil erosion, river siltation and aquatic contamination - not a pretty picture. Trees in the rainforest are being cleared at an alarming rate and it’s paramount to save as much rainforest as possible. The preservation of the rainforest is crucial for the survival of all species including the human race and Rainforest Concern are on the frontline of this mission.

How do they work?

• Rainforest Concern understand the threats and dynamics in every project area, which means that they are able to develop and apply tailored solutions to suit each project they undertake.
• They listen to the needs on the ground and design projects and initiatives alongside the people who live near the forests, so that each project meets with local criteria and approval. This approach is vital to the success of their work.
• Work in long-term partnerships with local NGO’s to ensure the best implementation and success. 
• Starting with pilot projects and ensuring they work before implementing larger or longer-term strategies which enables Rainforest Concern to produce the best outcomes and minimise the risks.
• Creating sustainability and a secure legacy is crucial to Rainforest Concern’s work, to ensure the positive impact of their projects continues into the future.
• Monitoring the impact of their actions is fundamental to communicating the advances and challenges of each project to our stakeholders and supporters. 
• Sharing the knowledge that they have gained from projects, to benefit other areas with similar issues and help build up awareness and action.

It’s crucial that we give back whenever possible. By purchasing Ancient + Brave products you will contribute to this charity. 1% of our revenue will go to fund all of our 1% for the Planet charities. 

If you wish to find out more on to get involved with this fantastic charity, please head to: https://www.rainforestconcern.org/get-involved/get-involved