Restoring & Regenerate Brazil’s Ecosystems
Brazil's ecosystems, from the lush Amazon Rainforest to the diverse Atlantic Forest, are in critical need of restoration. These regions are not only treasures of biodiversity but also essential pillars of global ecological health. Our starting point is in the Paraíba do Sul Valley, in the city of Taubaté.
Paraíba do Sul River Basin
The Paraíba do Sul River is a significant watercourse that traverses the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. Sadly, it has been suffering due to irregular and unplanned occupation of the soil, lack of care and the improper disposal of domestic sewage, leading to severe socio-environmental issues.
The main problem:
The main problem of the Paraíba do Sul river is the irregular and unplanned occupation of the soil, which leads to the daily discharge of approximately 1 billion litters of domestic sewage. Ninety percent of the municipalities that the river passes through do not have treatment networks. The package of industries situated on the banks of the river is diversified and includes metallurgical, textile, chemical, paper, and mining industries. With the riparian forest destroyed, the erosion of its banks devastates the river, which only brings losses. It does not allow navigation, makes water treatment more expensive, and still causes floods. Its mouth seems to accumulate the problems that the river has had since its source: damming, transposition, and sewage. A recent study by the University of Taubaté (UNITAU) revealed that the river has a high level of pollutants, which present risks of genetic damage and cancer in aquatic organisms and humans.
The Challenge
The Paraíba do Sul River Basin is one of the most important in Brazil, providing water for more than 15 million people, as well as agricultural and industrial activities. However, the river and its tributaries have been severely impacted by decades of urbanisation, industrialisation, and unsustainable land use practices. The result is a degraded ecosystem that is struggling to provide adequate water for human consumption, agriculture, and industry. The region also faces challenges related to social and economic development, including poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
We will work on three main fronts:
Management and monitoring of water resources
To achieve this goal, we use sustainable techniques that respect natural cycles and promote ecological diversity. The organisation will monitor water quality, in addition to implementing initiatives for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity in the region. To this end, projects will be developed to recover degraded areas, implement agroforestry and sewage treatment systems, among other initiatives.
Socio-Environmental-Economic education, focused on the importance of our ecosystems
We are promoting socio-environmental-economic education campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our ecosystems and the conservation of water resources. We are developing educational materials, such as booklets and videos, in addition to lectures and events.
Articulation with the various users and government agencies
Caring Without Borders seeks partnerships with the various water users in the Paraíba do Sul River basin, such as rural producers, schools, city halls, state and federal governments, and multinational companies such as Alstom, Volkswagen and more. Meetings, seminars and workshops will be held to discuss the integrated management of water resources in the region and to develop joint action plans.
Empowering Urbano School And Community
We take great pride in collaborate with Urbano School and community in Taubaté, São Paulo. Together, we are tackling the socio-environmental-economic challenges within the Paraíba do Sul River Hydrographic Basin. Our united mission is to foster awareness and a profound connection with this area by seamlessly blending nature with education and meaningful socio-environmental-economic restoration work.
Our Impact
Our project holds immense potential to revitalise the Paraíba do Sul River Basin and uplift the communities that depend on it. By reclaiming and regenerating degraded areas, we aim to restore ecosystem health, improve water availability and quality for human consumption, agriculture, and industry, and safeguard biodiversity and aquatic life. These efforts will create a healthier and more sustainable environment for all.
Beyond environmental restoration, the project also drives socioeconomic development. By fostering sustainable livelihoods, reducing poverty, and promoting social equity, we aim to empower local communities and create lasting change. Moreover, this initiative serves as a replicable model for other regions facing similar environmental and social challenges, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration and sustainable solutions.
Empowering Urbano School And Community
This insightful and joyful video offers a glimpse into our work. It marks just the beginning, and we're eager to welcome more individuals who share our passion for education and community engagement. The project commenced in May 2023, but unfortunately, due to the lack of interest and cooperation from the school directors and team, as well as the numerous obstacles encountered, we were unable to fully implement our vision there. However, we remain committed and have access to public green areas throughout the city for future endeavors. We also extend a warm invitation to other schools to partner with us and join our permaculture design competition.
Paraíba do Sul River and its historical importance for Brazil and the world.
Video on the History of the Paraíba Valley:
This insightful video delves into a significant chapter in the history of the Paraíba Valley, exploring the complex dynamics of the region. It sheds light on how Portuguese colonisers enslaved indigenous populations and introduced African slaves. By examining this historical context, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate narratives that shaped the Paraíba Valley.
Quick Facts about the Paraíba do Sul River Basin:
Discover key facts about the Paraíba do Sul River Basin, including its size, ecological significance, and the communities it supports. Learn about the challenges and opportunities facing this vital water system.
Europe's Pesticide Hypocrisy:
In this eye-opening video, one of World's leading biologists, Paulo Jubilut, exposes the hypocrisy surrounding pesticide use in Europe and the United Kingdom. Gain awareness of the discrepancies between their agricultural practices and the principles they promote.
The Hidden Truth of Concrete:
In this enlightening video, Paulo Jubilut explores the lesser-known truths about concrete and its contribution to global warming. Gain valuable knowledge about the environmental implications of this widely-used material and explore our platforms for the solutions to this matter.
Make a difference with every purchase or donation:
If you would like to support our efforts in the Paraíba do Sul River Basin region, please consider joining us on this important journey. Your support will help us restore countless ecosystems, promote quality education, and create a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and create a better future for our planet and all its inhabitants.
