The Colombian coffee growers protecting the spectacled bear | Sustainability

The Andean Bear: A Fight For Survival ⁣in Colombia’s​ Coffee Region

Nestled in Colombia’s verdant Western ‍Villa de Cauca region, Jhoan ⁣Bravo’s 74-acre coffee‌ farm⁤ sits amidst a ‍stunning tapestry of fertile fields and ‍emerald forests. For over fifty‍ years, his family has worked this land, witnessing a⁢ stark change in their environment and the creatures that⁣ call it home. Bravo remembers childhood stories ⁢of his⁢ grandfather returning home with a spectacled bear,⁢ it’s fat,⁤ believed to have medicinal properties, smeared onto the belly⁢ buttons of the family’s men. ‍Hunting animals was commonplace then, a way of life. “It wasn’t‌ unusual. We used animal skins for saddles, decorations, for everything,” he recalls. ‌ But over time,‍ sightings⁣ of ⁣these unique bears,​ also known as Andean bears ⁢( _Tremarctos ornatus_), became less and less frequent. While some family members continued hunting, Bravo found another sort of work in the forest – chopping ⁢down trees for lumber. “It was ⁢illegal,” he admits, “but it brought in some money.” Unknowingly, his actions were harming the very bears ⁣whose dwindling presence he barely noticed. ” If you don’t realize that the noise of your chainsaw‌ or felling a tree is hurting animals, then you ​don’t see⁤ it as bad,” he reflects. However, in 2017, bravo’s perspective began to⁢ shift. Recognizing⁤ the gravity of the threats facing the Andean bear, he and his family made a decision ‌to‌ abandon their past practices and become devoted protectors.

A Vulnerable Icon

the spectacled bear, the inspiration for the ​beloved Paddington Bear,​ is now classified as ​vulnerable by the International⁢ Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red ‌List. While exact⁢ numbers from the past are ⁣unknown, their ⁤population has definitely declined. Today, an estimated 13,000 to 18,000 spectacled bears remain,‌ with about 3,000 to ⁢6,000 inhabiting Colombia.⁢ Peru boasts the largest population. Deforestation, driven by logging, ‌mining,‌ cattle ranching, and agricultural expansion, has decimated the bears’ habitat.in some areas, farmers, ​desperate to protect their livestock, have resorted to ⁤killing these gentle creatures. In‌ the heart of Valle de cauca, however, a small but determined group of coffee producers, including Bravo, are leading a fight for the bears’ survival. ⁣

Supporting Farmers, Saving Bears: A Conservation ‌Effort in Colombia

High ​in the⁤ Western Cordillera of Colombia, where lush valleys⁣ meet verdant slopes, a unique collaboration is taking root. Farmers in the coffee-growing⁤ community of El Aguila are dedicating portions of their land to restoring the habitat of the spectacled bear,a⁣ solitary and elusive creature. This conservation initiative, known as We Conserve Life, brings together local farmers, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the Colombian National Natural Parks agency (PNN), and other partners. Liliana Grisales,a ‌coffee grower participating in the program,explains the dual benefits: “We’ve learned about the bears and how to ‌conserve their habitat.But as coffee producers, it’s also been ⁤a‍ huge benefit.” Farmers receive support⁣ and resources, including tools, machinery, and microorganisms to enrich the soil. This allows ​them to focus on producing high-quality coffee ‌on smaller plots, instead of focusing on sheer quantity. “It’s not ⁤about quantity, but quality of the coffee,” says Grisales. She carefully cultivates select coffee plants, handpicks the ripest cherries, and meticulously ⁢washes, dries, and ferments the beans for optimal‌ flavor. These premium beans fetch higher prices in the market.

Creating ‘Stepping Stones’

The restored habitat patches act as “stepping‍ stones,”‌ allowing ⁢the ⁣spectacled‌ bears to move⁤ safely between larger forest areas. This is crucial ⁢for the survival of⁣ these shy ⁣creatures, who need large territories to roam and find food.

A Unique Partnership for Colombia’s Endangered Spectacled Bears

The spectacled bear, an iconic species found in ‍the cloud forests‍ of the Andes, faces a daunting reality. The expansion of agriculture and logging ‌has fragmented‌ their habitat, ⁢putting their future‌ at risk. In Colombia,‍ where these captivating bears – also known as Andean bears – weighing between 82-154 kg​ (180-340 pounds) and typically living around 20 years, play a crucial role in the ecosystem as seed dispersers and pollinators. Their plight has led to a unique ‌conservation effort spearheaded by Wildlife conservation Society (WCS) Colombia. ​Recognizing the challenges of ‌establishing large protected areas amidst a densely populated Andean landscape, WCS took a different approach. “One of the ⁤first things we realized when we‌ identified these conservation areas is that we couldn’t ‌just create a new national park⁢ to cover​ such a‍ large area,” explains Ivan Mauricio Vela,⁤ big mammals ‍leader at WCS Colombia. “bearing in mind⁢ that ​70 percent of Colombia’s human population is ⁢concentrated ‍in the Andes, it just wasn’t possible.” Rather, WCS⁣ partnered with farmers, creating a network ​of biological “stepping stones” to connect​ existing protected ⁣areas like ⁣Tatamá, Fallarones, and Munchique National Natural Parks.

The wildlife organisation WCS places cameras on‍ the farmers’ land to monitor the presence of⁢ spectacled bears [Courtesy of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)]

Farmers, rather than selling their land ⁤or transferring⁤ ownership,‌ commit to restoring the bears’ habitat.⁣ Voluntary ⁣agreements stipulate responsibilities: farmers continue farming, ⁤avoiding ​deforestation .These agreements are renewed every five years. Since 2018, 16 farmers,‌ mainly coffee growers,⁤ have joined the project in El Aguila. Together,they⁢ have dedicated 681 hectares (1,683 ⁤acres) at ⁤altitudes between 1,800 and 2,200 metres (5,900-7,217 feet) to create corridors ⁣for bears to roam freely. These areas are being rejuvenated through planting and ⁢natural regeneration.

The Big Lie

Initially, coffee producers weren’t excited. “I was closed like a can of sardines,” says farmer Julio Bravo.”We were loggers, hunters.” In Colombia’s mountainous coffee region, ⁢a remarkable alliance⁣ is ⁣brewing between conservationists and coffee farmers. The unlikely partnership aims to protect the endangered spectacled bear, a shy and ⁣elusive creature that calls the Andean slopes its home. ‍ From Skepticism ⁢to Success: A Coffee Farmer’s Transformation The initiative, led by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), initially faced⁣ resistance from local farmers wary of outsiders interfering in their livelihoods. Julio Bravo, a coffee grower in the town of⁣ El Aguila, recalls the initial ⁤skepticism: “We had this deep mistrust of people coming to‍ us⁣ asking us to collaborate.For us,they were almost ‍enemies.” He says some even⁢ dismissed the project ⁢as “the big⁤ lie.” This distrust stemmed from past experiences with authorities who had threatened to penalize their ‌practices or take their land. Despite his reservations, Bravo joined the project in 2018, driven by ‌pragmatism and the promise of new equipment for his farm. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that​ he witnessed the project’s tangible‌ impact. Footage from cameras‌ set up on land voluntarily surrendered ⁣by farmers revealed a thriving ecosystem teeming with wildlife: deer, armadillos, foxes, ‌puma—and, most importantly, spectacled bears. Footage of a spectacled bear roaming the land ‍given up by⁣ the coffee ‌farmers in El Aguila [Courtesy of the WCS] “I felt this​ incredible joy,” Bravo recounts excitedly, capturing the moment of realization. “It wasn’t a lie. Seeing the bears wandering on my land—it was⁢ one ⁣thing to hear about them, but⁢ another to actually see them.” A Responsibility to Future Generations Carlos Rendon,a 76-year-old coffee grower,had a similar awakening. Learning about ‌the threats facing the spectacled bear and the broader environment prompted a profound change ‌in his​ perspective. “I knew I had to act as this shouldn’t be just about thinking about ourselves, but about other creatures, and also the generations that come after us, so ⁤that ⁢they can enjoy⁣ nature,” Rendon emphasizes,‌ reflecting ⁣on his past as an avid hunter. Carlos ⁤Rendon has been ⁣growing coffee all⁢ his life near El Aguila⁣ [Catherine Ellis/Al Jazeera] “Those of us who are‌ former predators, we should try to fix the damage that we have done,” ‌Rendon says thoughtfully, pausing to sip his coffee. The alliance’s approach focused on raising awareness among coffee growers about the threats to the bear—including hunting and unsustainable farming practices ⁤that endanger animal ​populations and damage habitats. Recognizing that wholly abandoning coffee production wasn’t feasible,⁤ the project worked towards finding sustainable solutions that would benefit both coffee growers and the ⁢spectacled bear ​population.

Saving Bears, Brewing Success: A Colombian coffee Story

Coffee production is the⁤ lifeblood of communities in Colombia’s El Aguila region, but it often comes at​ a cost to​ local wildlife, especially the endangered spectacled bear.⁤ Recognizing this, conservationists forged a unique partnership with coffee farmers, creating a win-win⁣ solution that protects wildlife and ‌elevates livelihoods. Recognizing that halting coffee production wasn’t feasible, organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society⁤ (WCS) opted ‌for a ⁣collaborative approach. “Coffee production couldn’t just stop because, obviously, people can’t ⁤live off fresh air,” explains Vela from WCS. By working ‌directly with farmers, they identified ​key ⁢areas for improvement. Providing technical expertise, ⁤financing for new machinery, and essential infrastructure ⁣upgrades like solar panels and septic tanks became crucial components of the initiative. Luis david Padilla Duque,conservation coordinator at the Argos ⁢Group Foundation,highlights their approach,stating,“We help them ⁤with ⁤things like renewing the ‌crop [pruning,replanting],fertilisation⁣ plans and a more efficient pulp washing⁣ system,and enable them to⁢ dry the coffee more efficiently.” “We’re not looking to obtain any capital returns in this.What we’re looking for⁢ with the resources that we invest is that different communities become more productive,” he adds. ⁤

Yielding ⁤Results

The farmers ⁢of El Aguila are now reaping the rewards of‌ this collaborative approach. They are producing higher quality coffee, commanding better prices, and witnessing a resurgence of vegetation and trees on land previously used for farming. Eight ​farmers banded together to establish Café Oso andino, their own brand of artisan coffee. This initiative not only boosts​ their income but also⁢ creates​ local jobs during the harvest season.They‍ also actively engage​ in educational outreach, visiting schools to impart knowledge ⁣about spectacled bears and other native wildlife, emphasizing the importance of conservation. For coffee farmer Grisales, coffee is the lifeblood of her community. “It’s ‌our livelihood,the economy and the way we support our families,” she says,sitting on her terrace overlooking her flourishing coffee crop.Her young daughter plays nearby with a kitten, a framed photo of a⁤ spectacled bear adorning the wall above them. “But if ⁣we can produce a better quality coffee, we‌ can sell at a much better price, like we’re doing now, obviously our quality of life⁣ improves a lot too.”

Spectacled Bear Recovery in the El⁣ Aguila Region Shows Promise

Conservation efforts in the El Aguila region are ⁣showing​ promising results for the endangered spectacled bear. ​A project focusing on⁢ sustainable coffee farming practices⁤ alongside habitat​ restoration appears to be contributing to an increase in the bear population. Studies conducted by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) ⁤indicate a notable ⁤rise in bear occupancy within the mountain range. In 2016, the probability of spectacled⁣ bear presence in various locations within the range was estimated at 56%. This figure jumped to 73% in⁢ 2021, suggesting a positive trend. “When we observe an increase in occupancy,we generally consider it a reliable indicator of an increase in population,” ​explains Vela,a WCS researcher involved⁤ in the project.⁢ “This outcome represents ‌a significant achievement for our conservation efforts.” Tremarctos ornatus – in a tree. Native short-faced bear from South America which is classed as vulnerable [Richard Sharrocks/Getty]” width=”770″ height=”512″ data-recalc-dims=”1″ />

A spectacled bear sits in a tree [Richard Sharrocks/Getty]

To gain a more precise understanding of the spectacled bear population density in ⁢the region, the WCS is currently undertaking further research in ⁢the Western Andes. They aim to have more concrete⁢ population figures available by 2025.

A Renewed Gratitude for Nature

Local coffee⁤ farmer Bravo reflects on ⁣the positive changes he has witnessed since the project began. “It’s now​ commonplace to encounter animals I was unaware even ⁣existed while traversing the forest,” he shares. “Bird songs, once silenced by the roar of chainsaws, now fill the ​air.” He has developed a deep affection for the mountains, the natural world, and the spectacled bears that call it ‍home. “I never anticipated becoming‍ so devoted to their ‌protection,” he says,a contagious smile spreading across his⁣ face.
This article beautifully showcases the success of a collaborative​ conservation​ project‌ in Colombia, where coffee ⁣farmers⁢ adn conservationists have joined forces to protect the endangered spectacled bear ⁣while simultaneously‌ improving their⁢ livelihoods. Here are‌ some key strengths of the piece:



*‌ **Narrative Structure⁤ :**



The use of⁢ personal anecdotes, like Carlos Rendon’s transformation from hunter to protector, effectively draws in the reader. It humanizes the issue and⁣ highlights the power of personal obligation ⁤in fostering change.



* **Clear explanations of the challenge and solutions:** ⁤ The article effectively explains⁤ the threats‍ facing the spectacled bear and the⁢ challenges of ‍sustainable coffee farming in a clear and concise way. It⁢ then details ⁤the practical solutions put in place – providing ‍technical expertise,financing for equipment upgrades,and creating choice income sources like the‍ Café Oso andino brand.

*‍ **Highlighting win-win solutions:**



The⁤ article‌ emphasizes how ⁢this project benefits both wildlife and​ peopel. The coffee farmers are now producing higher quality coffee, earning more income, and seeing a resurgence of‌ nature on their land.



* **Powerful Imagery:**



The inclusion of images of Carlos Rendon, the coffee farmers’ meeting, and the new equipment bolsters the article.They allow ⁢readers‌ to ‍visualize the people and places ‌involved ‌in ⁢this successful project.



* **Compelling ‌Call⁣ to Action:**



Even though indirect, the article implicitly calls for readers to consider their own​ consumption habits and support‌ sustainable initiatives. It ⁢reminds us that actions, ‍both small and large, can collectively make a difference in conserving biodiversity and supporting⁢ sustainable livelihoods.



**Suggestions for Advancement**





* **more on ‌long-term sustainability:**



The article could benefit from expanding on how the project ensures long-term ⁢sustainability. Are there plans for ongoing training, community ownership, and adaptation to potential future challenges?



* **Scientific Data:** Briefly mentioning⁣ specific data on the impact of the project on​ the ​spectacled bear population⁢ could further strengthen ​the‍ article.



* **Diversity of voices:** While Carlos Rendon’s story is powerful, incorporating perspectives from other farmers,‍ particularly women, could enrich the narrative.







this is ​a highly engaging and informative article that⁤ effectively highlights a promising model for conservation that strives to create​ a positive impact for both wildlife and human communities.

This excerpt from an Al Jazeera article eloquently illustrates the interconnectedness of conservation efforts, lasting agriculture, and economic empowerment.



**Here are some key takeaways:**



* **The Power of Collaboration:** the article highlights the success of a project that brings together conservationists, coffee farmers, and financial institutions. This collaborative approach addresses both environmental and economic needs, creating win-win scenarios.



* **Sustainable Solutions Benefits All:** the project demonstrates how sustainable farming practices can benefit both biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities. By restoring habitat and using environmentally kind techniques, farmers are able to produce higher quality coffee, increase their income, and contribute to the recovery of the endangered spectacled bear.



* **Conservation drives Economic Growth:** The article underscores the point that protecting nature can actually boost economic opportunities. The establishment of the Café Oso andino brand not only elevates the farmers’ income but also creates local jobs.



* **Shifting Perspectives:** the article eloquently captures the conversion in the local community. Farmers who initially focused solely on their economic survival now exhibit a deep thankfulness for the natural world and are actively engaged in conservation efforts.



* **Hope for the Future:** The increase in spectacled bear population density signifies concrete progress in conservation efforts. This success story serves as an inspiration and a model for similar initiatives worldwide.





**The article raises several critically important questions:**





* Can this model be replicated successfully in other regions facing similar challenges?

* How can we further incentivize sustainable practices among farmers globally?

* What role can consumers play in supporting brands and products that prioritize both quality and environmental sustainability?



this article offers a compelling narrative of hope and progress.It showcases how,through collaboration,innovative solutions,and a shared commitment to the planet,we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.