In 2026, Instituto Alok reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation through the second phase of the PLANETA VERDE (Green Planet) program. Supported by the Airbnb Community Fund this initiative contributes to reforestation and ecosystem restoration efforts across Brazil’s diverse biomes.
In the heart of Brazil, the initiative “Planting Water Pathways” aims to restore a 6-hectare area (60,000 square meters, roughly the size of six soccer fields) in Vereda dos Ingleses. This area is crucial for maintaining waterways and biodiversity within the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, located in the state of Goiás. The project is a collaboration between the Cerrado Seed Network, Associação Cerrado de Pé, and the Viveiro Escola (Native Cerrado Seedling Nursery).
Fotografias cedidas pela Rede Sementes do Cerrado
Veredas, as the Cerrado’s distinctive palm-lined wetland corridors, are essential to the biome’s water balance, functioning as natural reservoirs that feed springs and rivers. However, these environments have been severely impacted by recurring wildfires and the spread of invasive exotic grasses, which crowd out native vegetation and reduce the soil’s capacity to retain water.
Community at the Center
The project brings together environmental conservation and the strengthening of the local socioeconomic production chain. The restoration of 6 hectares will be carried out through community planting days and direct seeding, using native seeds collected by Associação Cerrado de Pé.
The initiative directly benefits approximately 240 seed-collector families in the region, the majority of whom are women (77%), along with Kalunga quilombola communities, agrarian reform settlers, and smallholder farmers.
“The Cerrado is Brazil’s cradle of waters. For restoration to be truly effective, it must be rooted in the territory, honoring traditional knowledge and fostering income generation that goes hand in hand with conservation,” says Anabele Gomes, President of the Cerrado Seed Network.
Expected Actions and Outcomes
By the end of the project, the following goals are planned:
- 6 hectares undergoing ecological restoration.
- Planting of 2,000 seedlings produced by the local nursery-school.
- Acquisition of at least 150 kg of community-sourced native seeds.
- Community planting days open to tourists and local residents, raising awareness about the role of water and wetland corridors in the ecosystem.
- Control of invasive species and adaptive management to ensure the survival of native vegetation.
By combining inclusive restoration with responsible tourism inside the National Park, the project deepens society’s connection to the Cerrado — transforming both visitors and local residents into stewards of this biome.
About the Cerrado Seed Network
The Cerrado Seed Network (RSC) is a nonprofit civil association and OSCIP (Civil Society Organization of Public Interest) is recognized as a national reference in ecological restoration. It connects community seed collectors, researchers, and policy advocates to conserve the biome. Founded in 2001 with support from the University of Brasília (UnB) and accredited by Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture since 2013, the organization has been building a community-based seed market since 2017 — one that promotes fair trade and income generation. With a strong presence in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region and operations expanding into states such as Minas Gerais, Bahia, Tocantins, and Pará, the RSC empowers local communities through training and technical assistance, developing sustainable solutions to keep the Cerrado alive and productive.
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Other Participating Organizations
Associação Cerrado de Pé
is a community organization of seed collectors and ecological restorers working to conserve the Cerrado and generate income for traditional communities in the Chapada dos Veadeiros.
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Viveiro Escola
is located at the CEBB Alto Paraíso Village in Chapada dos Veadeiros (GO). It is an initiative of the Instituto Caminho do Meio de Alto Paraíso (ICMAP). It integrates the cultivation of native Cerrado species with environmental education. Built in 2023, it serves as a hub for biome protection and restoration, combining technical conservation practices with community training and awareness-building.
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About the Airbnb Community Fund
Established in 2020, the Airbnb Community Fund is part of Airbnb’s commitment to serving its stakeholders and giving back to the communities where its hosts operate. The fund will distribute USD $100 million by the end of 2030 to strengthen communities around the world. It works closely with partners and hosts to identify priority causes and support organizations that drive real impact in their regions. Areas of focus include environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, mental health, and the prevention of abuse and exploitation.
