Developed in response to the uncontrolled poaching of wildlife in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (driven by local demand for bushmeat), Asociación de Mujeres Waorani del Ecuador is promoting organic cocoa cultivation as a wildlife protection measure and a pathway to local sustainable development. The association has created a land management plan that emphasizes zero deforestation, organic cocoa certification as a primary economic driver, and the management of subsistence hunting activities to protect threatened and vulnerable wildlife species. Community cocoa is processed into organic-certified chocolate, creating local access to new markets and more lucrative revenue streams. The association has been so successful at reorienting the local economy that the bushmeat market has been closed down. Women lead both organic farming and business management activities. Organic cocoa cultivation is complemented by activities in fish farming, fruit tree cultivation, and the operation of tree nurseries, which support both food security and reforestation needs. Revenues from the cocoa business have been invested into local education, health and infrastructure projects.
