The andean cloud forests are top priority for the conservation of the biodiversity of the world, as they house the greatest number of endemic species very much endangered by human activities. Due to its geographic location and climate, the south of Ecuador and north of Peru, are considered among the most diverse areas of this high-priority ecosystem.
Since 1997 NCI together with the German Research Foundation have carried out in this ecosystem, the most important scientific program of the German government outside its territory. The San Francisco Scientific Station was created with the purpose of lodging an endless number of researchers who have already produced valuable information on the subject of management of the ecosystem, and simultaneously educated a great amount of national and foreign scientists.
An important initiative of NCI has been to push for the UNESCO declaration of Podocarpus-Condor Biosphere Reserve, which will protect with an extension of 2.6 million acres, vast terrains of the Andean cloud forest and other important ecosystems.
In the potential Biosphere Reserve, NCI has influenced the conservation of the Protected Forest Colambo - Yacuri (183000 acres), through the declaration and continuous work with the local communities and governments, leading to the creation of the Communal Reserve Forest of Angashcola, that protects 3000 acres of cloud forest, and the decentralization of environmental competency and management of resources into the hands of the District Assemblies and communities. To provide these communities with financially viable alternatives is a fundamental element to guarantee the conservation of this ecosystem. With this in mind, NCI has undertaken agro-technical investigation and development of native fruits like toronche, achira (Canna indica) and Custart Apple (Annona cherimole), improving the conditions of traditional production.
Finally, protecting this ecosystem is crucial because of the environmental services it generates, such as drinking water supplies or hydroelectricity for the main cities. That is why research and political action has been undertaken to assess and to safeguard the hydrographical river basins that supply for the cities of Loja and Celica.
