Draft:Juan Julio Durand

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Juan Julio Durand
Occupation	Conservationist
Years active	1999–present
Known for	Junglekeepers

Juan Julio Durand (b. 1970s, Peru) is an Indigenous conservationist, environmental advocate, and Co-Founder of Junglekeepers, an organization dedicated to protecting the Amazon rainforest in Peru. Durand's life story is a remarkable journey fighting against deforestation, focusing his efforts on the Las Piedras River, a biodiversity hotspot in the Madre de Dios region.

Early Life

Juan Julio Durand was born into the Ese’Eja community, an Indigenous group with a deep connection to the Amazon rainforest. Growing up in the region, Durand witnessed the destruction of the rainforest and the exploitation of its resources led to a profound shift in his perspective.

Conservation Efforts and Founding of Junglekeepers

In the early 2000s, Durand acquired a small plot of land along the Las Piedras River and committed to preserving it. This marked the beginning of his work as a conservation leader. Durand’s collaboration with American conservationist Paul Rosolie was pivotal. Together, they co-founded Junglekeepers, a non-profit organization that aims to protect critical areas of the Amazon rainforest by acquiring land and employing local rangers.

Junglekeepers, under Durand’s guidance, has trained local community members, including former loggers, to become rangers who patrol the protected areas. This innovative approach has not only helped curb illegal activities like logging and mining but has also provided sustainable livelihood options for locals. Durand’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding Junglekeepers’ protected area to cover over 97,000 acres of rainforest.

Impact and Recognition

Durand’s work with Junglekeepers has garnered international recognition. In 2024, *TIME* magazine featured Durand, highlighting his unique journey and the impact of his conservation efforts. The article underscored his role as a bridge between Indigenous knowledge and modern conservation practices, illustrating the powerful role local leadership plays in environmental protection.

Legacy

Durand’s legacy is one of passion and resilience. As a co-founder of Junglekeepers, he has not only protected vast tracts of the Amazon but has also fostered a model of conservation that integrates local and Indigenous perspectives. His story serves as a powerful example of how grassroots efforts can lead to significant environmental impact, offering a blueprint for future conservation initiatives.