What We Do

Rainforest Foundation US is leading a groundbreaking
shift in how we protect our planet's rainforests.

We challenge traditional conservation models that protect nature by excluding people. Since our founding, we have stood in solidarity with those who call the rainforest home.

Supporting Indigenous peoples on the frontlines of rainforest protection is not just an ethical imperative—it is a smart and effective strategy.

Deforestation in rainforests safeguarded by Indigenous peoples is significantly lower than even national parks—and healthy forests are vital in protecting biodiversity and slowing climate change.

At the critical intersection of environmental protection and human rights, we focus on three priority areas: Land Rights, Rainforest Protection, and Strengthening Organizations

Land Rights

Without legal recognition of their lands, it’s difficult for Indigenous peoples to maintain their ways of life and safeguard their forests.

Land titled to Indigenous communities show 66% less deforestation than untitled lands. Supporting our partners in securing land rights has remained central to our mission since our founding. Our work ranges from community-based participatory mapping to advocating for landmark cases in international courts.

Read more about our Land Rights work

With our support, Indigenous peoples have secured the rights for over 42.7 million acres over the past 35 years.

Rainforest Protection

Deforestation is one of the greatest threats to Indigenous ways of life and our planet, driving carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, and climate change.

Our territorial monitoring work provides tools, training, and resources to Indigenous peoples to map, monitor, and secure their territories.

Read more about our Rainforest Protection work

Communities using our Rainforest Alert monitoring program saw 52% less deforestation in the first year alone.

Strengthening Organizations

Organizations with strong internal structures are better equipped to manage and protect their forests.

Our Institutional Strengthening programs enhance governance, communications, administrative, and financial capacities. We invest directly in partner organizations.

Read more about our Institutional Strengthening work

We support over 200 Indigenous communities and organizations.

Watch this video to learn more about our work

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Mobilize Millions for Rainforests

October 10 is DAF Day! If you have a Donor Advised Fund, please support rainforest protection.

Climate change can’t wait, and rainforests—which are critical to mitigating climate change—are facing growing threats from fires and deforestation.

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