Photographer Renato Stockler Captures Forest Growers Of Mata Atlântica, Brazil

The Mata Atlântica, colloquially known as the Atlantic Forest, stands as Brazil’s most opulent yet imperiled expanse of woodland. Nestled within the Mantiqueira Mountains (Serra da Mantiqueira), a stone’s throw away from bustling urban hubs, a cadre of dedicated individuals is forging a path towards environmental resurgence. These trailblazers are not afraid to dig in and soil their hands, actively engaged in the restoration of bygone ecosystems and sowing the seeds of a sustainable future.

In the municipality of Bocaina de Minas, situated partially within the confines of the historic Itatiaia National Park – Brazil’s inaugural national park established in 1937 – no fewer than three distinct initiatives have taken root. These initiatives, committed to the growth of the forest, have yielded tangible results in terms of wildlife revival and the rejuvenation of natural springs. These endeavors serve as beacons of hope, illustrating that concerted efforts can indeed breathe new life into the lush but imperiled tapestry of the Mata Atlântica.