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Amazon Headwaters

Hats off to rainforest conservation

Hats off to rainforest conservation

These "Panama" hats are woven by local lowland Quichua women from the fibers of common rainforest plants. The lighter fibers are of the Bird of Paradise plant (Heliconia vellerigera) and the darker fibers are from a bromeliad (Aechmea strobilaceae).

Sustainable micro-business can provide alternative sources of income for rural and indigenous communities who are geographically (and politically) isolated from the highly-centralized governments of the Amazonian region, provided they have access to markets. Photographed near Tena, Napo Province, Amazonian Ecuador.

Images from the documentary project promoting the conservation work of local and indigenous communities, women and youth in the upper Amazon basin. Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) The Flooded Forest River conservation Theme: Interconnectedness Sustainable Contact with Indigenous Communities Local scientists documenting one of the most biologically diverse places on earth Sleeping beauty of the rainforest Ecuadorian child inspired by her local rainforest Lowland Quichua at the cutting edge Lowland Quichua home Natural smiles Hats off to rainforest conservation Plants and people Diversity in art Baby Armadillo The Añangu lowland Quichua: Conservation Role Models Comunidad Capirona: Leaders in Rainforest Management Leading by Example River conservation in the upper Amazon Looking to the future in the rainforest Gate-keepers of the Yasuní National Park & UNESCO Biosphere Reserve