Protector of the Waters of Vera Cruz – payment for environmental services and improved water quality for 20,000 people.
ABOUT IT
O Protector of the Waters of Vera Cruz It is an initiative of Philip Morris Brazil aimed at conservation and improvement of water quality in the Arroio Andréas sub-basin, in Rio Grande do Sul. Implemented in 2018, the project is part of the national program Water Producer, from the National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency (ANA).
The project operates through payment for environmental services (PES), encouraging small producers to protect springs and riparian areas on their properties. Actions include:
Restoration and protection of springs and riparian areas;
Conservation of 242 hectares of native forest;
Biodiversity monitoring, with records of 564 plant species and 224 animal species, including endangered species;
Optimizing water use, benefiting approximately 20,000 residents in the urban and rural areas of Vera Cruz;
Strategic partnerships with the Municipality of Vera Cruz, ANA, Afubra, Comitê Pardo and Emater/RS;
Continuous monitoring of water quality and the impact of environmental actions.
The program aims to increase water resilience of the region, even during periods of drought, in addition to providing social and economic benefits for rural producers.
Results and Objectives
Objectives
Protect and restore springs and riparian areas;
Conserve and restore areas of native forest;
To guarantee water of sufficient quality and quantity for public supply and local consumption;
Promoting Payment for Environmental Services (PES) as an incentive for conservation;
To monitor and preserve local biodiversity;
To improve the quality of life of participating rural families;
Contribute to Philip Morris' global goal of optimizing 10 million m³ of water by 2030.
Results and Impacts
Participating producers: 117 integrated farmers
Preserved areas: 242 hectares of native forest
Protected springs: 138 preserved springs
Water quality: Significant improvement in water quality for approximately 20,000 residents.
Biodiversity: 564 plant species (including endangered species) and 224 animal species recorded.
Water optimization: 215,631 m³ of water optimized since 2019
Social benefits: Access to water throughout the year, distinct microclimates, more harmonious landscapes, and greater biodiversity.
SDGs
External Certification
International Commitments
National Commitments
More info
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