Both large-scale commercial and small-scale informal gold mining operations are rampant in Ecuador and together, they have greatly harmed natural environments. DECOIN witnessed the destruction taking place and decided to create alternative economic opportunities for people in the Andes.
Over more than two decades, the group has helped 38 communities develop community-based forest reserves to protect watersheds. A range of work opportunities including “organic coffee production, aquaculture, poultry farming, and egg production, as well as eco-tourism ventures,” boosts local incomes and gives poor families an alternative to mining.