The Peruvian Amazon welcomed Valeria Piazza and Pierre Cateriano on a journey organized by WWF Peru, where they were introduced as ambassadors in the mission to give voice to conservation efforts in this region, which is vital for the planet.

In Madre de Dios, the forest plays essential roles: it regulates the climate, sustains the water cycle, captures carbon, provides food, and supports the livelihoods of thousands of families.

During four days in Madre de Dios, they witnessed firsthand both the threats and the opportunities for conservation. They visited Brazil nut forests that showcase the best practices of sustainable forest management, which not only safeguard biodiversity but also sustain local economies.

They also learned how technology, through camera traps, helps monitor key species such as the jaguar (Panthera onca) and design more effective protection strategies.

The itinerary also included a visit to a specialized nursery where more than 50 seedlings of native species such as mahogany, Brazil nut, and shihuahuaco are cultivated to restore degraded areas. At this site, WWF’s ambassadors took part in a symbolic planting that reflected the joint efforts of communities, institutions, and the private sector.

Allies for Amazon conservation

The journey also highlighted the work of allies such as Taricaya Ecoreserve, which was recently recognized as an OECM (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measure). Though not a formally designated protected area, it makes a significant long-term contribution to biodiversity conservation. The reserve is dedicated to caring for and reintroducing rehabilitated wildlife.

Later, they visited Lake Sandoval, located within Tambopata National Reserve, a protected natural area that, through the Natural Legacy of Peru initiative, seeks to guarantee long-term financial sustainability and conservation of the country’s Protected Natural Areas (PNAs). This initiative generates and manages funds for their management while promoting economic and social development through innovative mechanisms and active participation of the private sector and citizens.

These experiences enabled Valeria and Pierre to deliver a clear message: protecting the Amazon is protecting our future.

In addition to these field learnings, they also discovered the positive impacts being achieved through the partnership between HP and WWF, who have joined forces to ensure Amazon conservation through forest restoration in deforested and degraded areas, sustainable forest management, and habitat connectivity for key species, including the jaguar (Panthera onca).

Valeria Piazza, former Miss Peru Universe 2016 and TV host, has been an advocate for environmental and social causes, serving as a WWF Peru ambassador since 2017. Together with WWF, she is committed to driving the protection of the planet and raising awareness of the challenges facing nature. She has also been involved in campaigns for well-being, women’s empowerment, and social causes.

Pierre Cateriano is a purpose-driven content creator. Through his platforms, he promotes responsible pet adoption, volunteering in shelters for abandoned animals, responsible and sustainable consumption—including products sourced from Indigenous communities—and actively promotes sports, family, and wellness activities. His authenticity and environmental awareness make him a key ally in amplifying the message of Amazon forest conservation.