The name of the foundation, Conciencia Amazónica can be literally translated to “Amazonian Consciousness”, which is one of our primary goals as a foundation, to create awareness and consciousness in local Amazon communities of the richness of biodiversity found in their territory.
However, the foundations name is also a play on words: if we break down the first word, Con Ciencia = WITH SCIENCE and re-translate, we have “with Amazonian Science”. As we apply the next logical step, in order to elucidate the Amazonian Science, we must have an Amazon with Science.
The Ecuadorian Amazon is one of the most bio-diverse regions on the planet, yet is one of the most under-investigated. Science education in schools and high schools is very poor, with no economic resources provided for essential didactic materials, reagents, or equipment. Is it an accident that while this region of Ecuador possesses underground mineral resources, with many international mining companies owning concessions doing decades of exploration, “supporting education” with soccer outfits and infrastructure such as classrooms, they have yet to include a Periodic of Table of Elements?
“EDUCATION IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WHICH YOU CAN USE TO CHANGE THE WORLD.” Nelson Mandela
Now imagine for a moment, the next generations of students in the Amazon, with the same educational resources and opportunities as the countries who own the mining concessions… Will the tables be turned? Will the rightful owners of the territory be able to use their knowledge of the consequences of open pitt mineral extraction, and decide their own future, as opposed to falling under the guise of a “development project” demonstrated with animated cartoons, from foreigners who live nowhere near an open pit?
We strongly believe that giving the next generations of Amazonian students access to a dignified education in the sciences will change the lives of inhabitants for the better. Linking science with community development from the perspective of the local land owners, who are primarily cattle farmers, we demonstrate the ability to succeed by working with Mother Nature, not against her, as we also live in the territory, and understand the difficulties.