The Foundation for Alternative Tropical Agriculture and Sustainable Development (FUNDATADI) works to conserve local forests and biodiversity and promote sustainable livelihoods through agricultural diversification, primarily through the introduction and cultivation of medicinal plants. 

Nature-based Intervention:

The Foundation for Alternative Tropical Agriculture and Sustainable Development (FUNDATADI) works with rural Piedemonte Andino communities in northwest Venezuela. FUNDATADI works principally to promote sustainable livelihoods and conserve local forests in the Ramal de Calderas forest corridor which has a high level of biodiversity and species endemism. Forest conservation takes the form of reforesting using native trees grown in community nurseries and the protection of over 47 hectares of coffee forest. Furthermore, sustainable livelihood options developed for local communities are designed taking into account potential impacts on local forests. Most prominently, FUNDATADI promotes agricultural diversification through the organic cultivation of native medicinal plants in family gardens. In order to market and diversify livelihood options using these medicinal plants, community organisations have been established to process raw materials from family plantations to develop marketable products including artisanal infusions, soaps, and syrups.

Overview of context and outcomes:

Progressive deforestation over the past two decades has threatened the stability and well-being of the over 1,000 species of plants and animals endemic to the area, including 21 endangered species.