Itaipú dam and UNESCO to cooperate on scientific and environmental conservation

The binational Itaipú dam, which manages a vast biosphere reserve, and UNESCO have signed a cooperation agreement in Paraguay focused on scientific and environmental conservation. The agreement was formalized during the 38th session of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB-ICC).

The signed letter of intention establishes a framework for cooperation to foster the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and international best practices related to conservation. This collaboration will specifically focus on the Itaipú dam's extensive biosphere reserve, which spans over one million hectares and was recognized by UNESCO in 2017.

Through this partnership, Itaipú Binacional and UNESCO will jointly analyze various aspects, including hydroelectric infrastructure, protected areas, ecological corridors, and landscapes associated with the dam. The cooperation also extends to biodiversity conservation programs and the historical and cultural elements linked to the integration of Brazil and Paraguay, the two nations that share the hydroelectric facility.

It is important to note that the agreement is exploratory and non-binding. It does not commit Itaipú Binacional to any specific nomination for World Heritage status or any other formal proposal to UNESCO's World Heritage Committee. The reserve itself is dedicated to protecting the flora and fauna of the Atlantic Forest of the Alto Paraná, while also promoting sustainable development in 16 Paraguayan municipalities. Endangered species such as jaguars, pumas, and tapirs inhabit these protected areas.

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a framework of cooperation with the aim of promoting the exchange of knowledge, experiences and international best practices related to conservation