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On Thursday, December 12, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) was present at the 3rd Municipal Climate Emergency Conference, held in Cachoeiras de Macacu, Rio de Janeiro. The event, entitled "The Challenge of Ecological Transformation", brought together several representatives to discuss the challenges and solutions related to climate change and the need for an ecological transition. Photo: Regua Collection The program included an inspiring talk on the central themes, followed by working groups and constructive debates that encouraged the exchange of ideas and the search for strategies to face the climate crisis. REGUA's participation reinforces its commitment to promoting environmental conservation and collaborating with initiatives that aim at sustainability and ecological balance in our region.

Stars of Earth II moves audience at REGUA with inspiring stories about connecting with the environment Last Saturday, November 23, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) hosted the premiere of the second edition of the documentary Estrelas da Terra . The event brought together more than 180 people to celebrate this exciting production, which rescues stories from local communities and highlights their deep relationship with the environment, especially with the Guapiaçu River. With the participation of residents from various locations, such as Guapiaçu, Estreito, Matumbo and Bonanza, the documentary brought to light remarkable experiences, narrated by the residents themselves. Marta da Silva, one of the characters in the film, described the experience as "a unique opportunity". José da Silva, also a character, declared emotionally: "A day like this will never happen again. For me, it was one of the greatest days of my life." Produced by REGUA, Estrelas da Terra II is part of the Sou(L) environmental education program and was sponsored by Mitsubishi Corporation, in addition to the support of the City Hall of Cachoeiras de Macacu and a dedicated group of volunteers. The work is an invitation to reflect on the importance of belonging and environmental preservation, reinforcing the vital role of the Guapiaçu River for these communities.

The Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) was present at the 1st State Forestry Congress of Rio de Janeiro (CEFLOR-RJ), held in Cachoeiras de Macacu between November 16th and 19th, 2024. The event, which was technical, scientific and educational in nature, brought together experts, researchers, managers and students to discuss issues related to the sustainable management of the state's native and planted forests. In addition, it addressed issues such as public policies, monitoring methodologies, conservation and environmental preservation. REGUA’s participation reinforces its commitment to environmental conservation and the promotion of practices that integrate sustainability and local development. The congress was an opportunity to exchange knowledge, present initiatives and seek solutions to the challenges faced by the forestry sector in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

No dia 26 de outubro, o programa Jovem Guarda 2024 encerrou suas atividades com uma manhã especial de celebração, recebendo os jovens participantes e suas famílias. O evento marcou o fim de mais um ciclo de aprendizado e práticas em educação ambiental, permitindo que os alunos compartilhassem o conhecimento e as experiências acumuladas ao longo do ano. A ocasião foi repleta de trocas valiosas e reforçou o compromisso com a formação de uma geração consciente e engajada na preservação ambiental. O programa Jovem Guarda é patrocinado pela Mitsubishi Corporation e conta com o apoio da Prefeitura Municipal de Cachoeiras de Macacu. A equipe já está animada e em preparação para a próxima edição em 2025!

On October 23, the 4th course of the Replântica Project was successfully completed, with the theme “Forest Restoration and Other Services”. Aimed at young people aged 15 and over from communities neighboring the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA), the course had a workload of 80 hours, divided between practical and theoretical classes, offering complete training in environmental preservation practices. The initiative was carried out in partnership with the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ) and is part of the REPLÂNTICA project, funded by the German Ministry of the Environment through the International Climate Protection Initiative (IKI). REGUA thanks all participants for joining this journey in favor of environmental preservation and restoration.

On October 19, 4th year students of the Replântica Project – made up of young people from communities surrounding the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve – took part in a visit to the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). The initiative provided a day of learning, cultural exchanges and enriching experiences for the young people. The program included visits to the university's museums and a guided tour of the main spaces on campus, offering students a comprehensive view of academic life and the opportunities offered by UFRRJ. This special moment strengthened the bond between young people and the university environment, encouraging the personal and professional development of these future talents.

On 15th October, students from the 4th cohort of the Replântica Project – aimed at students and young people from communities near the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve – took part in a practical lesson that introduced them to key historical sites in Cachoeiras de Macacu. During the activity, the students visited the ruins of the São José da Boa Morte Church and the Church of the Holy Trinity, locations rich in historical significance for the region. The experience offered a unique opportunity to learn about local history and ecotourism, strengthening the students’ connection to the cultural heritage of the municipality. It was an enriching experience that connected past and future, underscoring the importance of historical and environmental preservation in students' education.

Last Saturday, July 27, the Florescência course concluded, successfully a journey that highlighted the essential role of women in the restoration of forest ecosystems. Over the course of five meetings, participants delved into the functioning of ecosystems, learned about seedling production techniques and explored practical and theoretical methods of forest restoration. Activities included workshops on medicinal plants, essential oils, inclusive food and agroforestry. The course was held at the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) in partnership with the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), as part of the REPLÂNTICA project. This project is funded by the German Ministry of the Environment through the International Climate Protection Initiative (IKI). In the final meeting of the Florescência course, participants had the opportunity to undertake a technical visit to Sítio Sol Nascente Orgânicos, located in the municipality of Teresópolis, in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. The visit provided practical learning about agroforestry, allowing the women to see first-hand how a family farm operates focused on the production of agroforestry products featuring an agroecological production system and organic certification.

July 15 marked the start of the Florescence course, a life changing journey that highlights the essential role of women in restoring forest ecosystems. Over the course of five meetings, participants will explore how ecosystems function, learn about seedling production and discover practical and theoretical methods of forest restoration. In this edition, during a practical class, participants were able to learn how to make soap using medicinal plants found in the region. This initiative is promoted by the Institute of Technology and Resource Management in the Tropics and Subtropics (ITT) of the University of Cologne, Germany, in partnership with the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) and the Forestry Institute of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). Based on local knowledge and REGUA's vast experience in ecological restoration, the training aims to empower local women in rural areas, providing them a glimpse of the importance of preserving nature and how it is possible to produce healthy food and crafts in a sustainable way using local forest and natural products. "We are having a wonderful exchange of experiences. I am learning and loving it," said Maria da Penha, a course participant.

The 1st Workshop on Childhood and Nature in the State of Rio de Janeiro took place on October 27th at REGUA headquarters. The event promoted awareness and the importance of connecting with nature, seeking to strengthen the bond between individuals and the natural environment and its importance in human development. It was a collaborative initiative between REGUA and the Municipal Government of Cachoeiras de Macacu to inspire municipal public servants, such as educators, social workers, doctors, nurses and the community in general to value and protect natural spaces, in addition to encouraging outdoor learning and direct contact with Nature. The Workshop was attended by the Alliance for Childhood, Nature Conection Colective and the Integral Pediatrician Dr. Daniel Becker. Talk: Coletivo Conexão Natureza (ACERVO) TRANSTORNO DO DÉFICIT DE NATUREZA NA INFÂNCIA https://criancaenatureza.org.br/pt/acervo/transtorno-do-deficit-de-natureza-na-infancia/ A NATUREZA DA CRIANÇA – DIÁLOGOS COM VIGOTSKI E BRONFENBRENNER https://criancaenatureza.org.br/pt/acervo/a-natureza-da-crianca/ RELAÇÃO SOCIEDADE-NATUREZA, SAÚDE E EDUCAÇÃO: REFLEXÕES MULTIDISCIPLINARES https://criancaenatureza.org.br/pt/acervo/relacao-sociedade-natureza-saude-e-educacao-reflexoes-multidisciplinares/ NEURODESENVOLVIMENTO INFANTIL EM CONTATO COM A NATUREZA https://criancaenatureza.org.br/pt/acervo/neurodesenvolvimento-infantil-em-contato-com-natureza/ (CAPITÚLO 4) RELAÇÃO SOCIEDADE-NATUREZA, SAÚDE E EDUCAÇÃO: REFLEXÕES MULTIDISCIPLINARES https://www.regua.org.br/file-share/072665d2-3d3b-4b0b-87f7-5b89868e367f MANUAL DE ORIENTAÇÃO SBP - SAÚDE E NATUREZA https://www.regua.org.br/file-share/ff8c6aeb-3550-4168-8e4d-e8c362338cc7

The screaming cowbird ( Molothrus rufoaxillaris ) of the Icteridae family is the most specialized species among brood parasites. Daniel Mello, a birdwatching guide and partner of our institution, made the first record of this species at REGUA, in an open area near the headquarters. A young individual (featuring a reddish-brown plumage) was observed accompanying a flock of blackbirds ( Gnorimopsar chopi ). The screaming cowbird parasitizes the nests of several species of birds, including chopi blackbirds, so that they can breed them. Insects, seeds and occasionally fruits are part of its diet. It occurs in much of eastern Brazil, from Rio Grande do Sul to Piauí. Data: 07/02/22

In early July 2024, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve, located in Cachoeiras de Macacu, Rio de Janeiro, celebrated the birth of a new tapir calf. Refauna, the project responsible for reintroducing the species to the region, released a short video recording the seventh calf born in the reserve, a significant milestone for the preservation of local fauna. The record was made by biologist Manoel Muanis during a mammal monitoring activity. It is estimated that the calf, whose mother is tapir Jasmine, has just over a month of life. Jasmine, from the Guarulhos Zoo, has adapted exceptionally well to the new environment, having given birth to three calves since its reintroduction in 2020. "We are extremely happy with the birth of the seventh tapir calf. Jasmine is showing an excellent reproductive success, which is crucial to the success of the project," said Joana Macedo, coordinator of the Guapiaçu project biodiversity monitoring. Since the beginning of the reintroduction program in 2017, 22 tapirs have been released in the reserve, of which 14 still survive, although eight have died due to running overs and conflicts between individuals. The return of tapirs, a species considered vulnerable by the Red List of IUCN, is vital for the ecological recovery of the area, as these animals play a crucial role in dispersing seeds and maintaining forest health. The Refauna Project, in partnership with the Guapiaçu Project and with the support of Petrobras, continues to work towards the conservation of this species, contributing to the restoration of the forests of Rio de Janeiro and reinforcing the importance of preserving biodiversity. The Guapiaçu Project is an initiative of the Socio-Environmental Action Institute - ASA, in partnership with Refauna, Caminho da Mata Atlântica, Petrobras, and support from the City Hall of Cachoeiras de Macacu and the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve - REGUA, where the images were recorded.