Innovating for Conservation: Rainforest Foundation US and Save the Rainforest Bars
Rainforest Foundation US
Nearly four decades ago, Sting and Trudie Styler made a commitment to defend the Kayapo community in Brazil against the harmful impacts of deforestation. Currently, Rainforest Foundation US (RFUS)—the grassroots initiative they co-founded in 1988—remains dedicated to this cause in Brazil, while also expanding its efforts to safeguard Indigenous communities and rainforests across Peru, Guyana, and the Mesoamerican region.
A rights-based approach
With around 1.5 million Indigenous peoples residing in the Amazon rainforest, RFUS emphasizes the importance of preserving both the ecosystems and the rights of their inhabitants.
“Empowering Indigenous communities as the principal stewards of the rainforest is central to our mission,” states Executive Director Suzanne Pelletier. “Our focus extends beyond mere forest conservation; it encompasses advocating for their rights, livelihoods, and cultural practices.”
Indigenous-centered policies
Prioritizing the rights of Indigenous communities brings numerous advantages—not only for the health of rainforests but also for the planet’s well-being during an ongoing climate emergency.
“Deforestation ranks as the second largest contributor to global carbon emissions,” Pelletier explains, “and studies indicate that forests managed by Indigenous peoples serve as more effective carbon sinks than national parks, facing significantly less deforestation.”
RFUS equips and strengthens Indigenous communities by offering training in land management, policy development, and legal support for land titling.
The advocacy for Indigenous rights has been a cornerstone of RFUS since its formation. Pelletier noted, “We were pioneers in marrying Indigenous rights with environmental protection initiatives on a significant scale.”
“In the past year, we assisted more than 200 Indigenous communities in enhancing their governance, administrative practices, and financial skills,” Pelletier adds. “This integrative approach not only mitigates deforestation but also empowers Indigenous peoples to effectively oversee and protect their ancestral territories.”
Save the Rainforest Bars
Recognizing that they crafted a unique product in the form of a fulfilling superfood bar, co-founders Lauren Feingold and Ashanty Williams aimed to give back to the Amazon rainforest, which provides many of the bar’s nutrient-rich ingredients.
Giving thanks to Mother Earth
When the decision was made to create their own superfood bar, Feingold and Williams were adamant about maintaining high-quality ingredients.
“Numerous superfoods we utilize are sourced from the Amazon Rainforest. Over time, we became more aware of the issues facing our supply chain,” Feingold notes. “We began to understand the ongoing degradation of the Amazon region.”
Feingold attributes her connection to RFUS to a business partnership that introduced her to the organization’s executive director. “We were instantly inspired by the impactful efforts of RFUS in protecting the Amazon Rainforest’s ancestral lands,” she shares.
An inspired pairing
For every Save the Rainforest Bars product sold, 5% of the profits are donated to RFUS.
“We believe that the advantages of consuming nutrient-rich functional ingredients are only realized through the protection of Mother Earth, the miraculous source of our exceptional ingredients,” states Feingold. “Partnering with such a vital organization has honored us, allowing us to contribute to the protection of the planet’s health through proceeds from our bars while fostering awareness about the significance of preserving the rainforest.”
A healthy rainforest yields health ingredients
“Our unique ingredients distinguish our bars from the competition,” claims Feingold, who identifies as both a chef and athlete.
Produced in a raw, paleo facility, the Save the Rainforest Bars come in enticing flavors such as Mango Cashew, Mexican Chocolate, and Blueberry Matcha, offering a delightful and invigorating way to enjoy organic rainforest superfoods while backing the deforestation-fighting initiatives and advocacy of RFUS.
This article first appeared in the September-October 2024 issue of Daitrl magazine (U.S. edition).
