AMAP e.V. was founded in Marburg, Germany, in 2017 by conservation enthusiasts with the aim of preserving and expanding Brazil’s Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica). The project region, situated along Bahia’s Cocoa Coast, is defined by the Almada River, from which the organization takes its name. Preserving the habitat of the critically endangered golden-headed lion tamarin became a symbol of AMAP’s broader goals.
Over the following years, numerous conservation projects were implemented along the Almada River in collaboration with a wide range of partners. Former cattle pastures and forest areas were purchased and restored to their natural state. At its peak, a team of up to 17 permanent staff members was involved in various research and environmental protection projects. Many volunteers and students from both Germany and Brazil also actively supported AMAP’s work on the ground.
Our conservation efforts focused on the following key areas:
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Reforestation of a wildlife corridor – a total of over 50,000 native trees were planted. The reforestation and maintenance of these areas were carried out with the help of many volunteers and local staff.
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Species conservation – a population survey of golden-headed lion tamarins was conducted, alongside the identification of high-priority habitats for long-term protection.
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Support for a golden-headed lion tamarin monitoring project within cabruca systems, aiming to understand how these habitats are utilized and which management practices can ensure the long-term survival of these callitrichid primates.
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Biodiversity research – in cooperation with several universities, the organization investigated the impact of land-use changes on biodiversity in the cocoa-growing region and explored strategies to mitigate these effects and preserve species diversity in the long term.
Between 2017 and 2025, AMAP supported and funded several master's theses and doctoral dissertations.
All ongoing projects were concluded by the end of 2025, and local structures were dissolved as of June 30, 2026.All ongoing projects were concluded by the end of 2025, and local structures were dissolved as of June 30, 2026.
Nevertheless, AMAP looks back on nearly ten years of successful nature conservation and research work and thanks all sponsors, donors, and supporters for their trust. The work accomplished can be viewed on this page.
AMAP is no longer accepting donations!