Earthshot Laureate Florent Kaiser: The Andean Eco Revolutionary

Florent Kaiser⁠, CEO of Global Forest Generation and
⁠Earthshot Prize Winner⁠, has unveiled the extraordinary
accomplishments of ⁠Acción Andina⁠. This grassroots initiative,
co-founded by Asociación Ecosistemas Andinos, is deeply rooted in
ancient Inca principles of "Ayni and Minka." Together, they have
planted nearly 10 million native trees since 2018, rejuvenating
over 4,000 hectares of Andean forests. The activities are already
helping thousands of people by increasing food and water security,
providing new income opportunities. What's the goal? By 2045, they
aim to protect and restore one million hectares of high Andean
native forest ecosystems across Argentina, Bolivia, Chile,
Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Why is this crucial? The
Andean Forest isn't just a habitat for endangered species; it's a
lifeline for indigenous communities and a guardian of water
security for millions. Over the years, deforestation, animal
grazing, and mining have depleted high Andean forests, leaving less
than 10% of the region’s native forests. This has severe
consequences for local and indigenous communities.
Florent: "The native forests of the Andes region are not only
one of the world’s richest and most diverse ecosystems but also a
critical tool in our fight against climate change." We delve into
Florent's personal journey and his work with ⁠Constantino Aucca
Chutas, Co-Founder and President of Acción Andina⁠ and explore
their common mission, challenges, and the search for solutions –
and everything necessary to protect and restore our planet's
ecosystems.