Story perspectives

Brothers' Traditional Farming Preserves Biodiversity in Rio Park

3/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Brothers Jorge Cardia and Ubirajara Cardia harvest bananas using traditional methods in Pedra Branca state park, Rio de Janeiro.
Their Cafundá Astrogilda community practices agroforestry, mixing bananas with native species to preserve biodiversity.
Since the park's 1974 establishment, farming faced restrictions, but locals adapted and contribute to conservation.
In 2023, President Lula recognized their contributions amid real estate pressures threatening the ecosystem, as experts urge integrating traditional farming into conservation.

1 of 1

Story summary

Brothers Jorge Cardia and Ubirajara Cardia harvest bananas using traditional methods in Pedra Branca state park, Rio de Janeiro.
Their Cafundá Astrogilda community practices agroforestry, mixing bananas with native species to preserve biodiversity.
Since the park's 1974 establishment, farming faced restrictions, but locals adapted and contribute to conservation.
In 2023, President Lula recognized their contributions amid real estate pressures threatening the ecosystem, as experts urge integrating traditional farming into conservation.