Rede Muriqui – planting seeds of conservation in schools

At Muriqui Instituto de Biodiversidade, alongside the urgent work of rescuing isolated muriquis, there is a long-term mission that is just as important, if not more so: raising a new generation that understands the importance of conserving the Atlantic Forest and its largest primate, the muriqui.

The MIB communication network recognizes that schools are key partners in this process. That is why the Rede Muriqui (Muriqui Network) project invests in environmental education directly in the classroom, especially with children in the fourth and fifth grades of elementary school.

Why these grades?

This is the stage when students are most receptive to ideas that will shape their worldview. It is the right moment to plant the seed of conservation, so that 20 years from now these children will be the guardians of the forests and the muriquis – after all, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago.

In schools, the project engages with students, teachers, school administrators and families, building a network of dialogue and engagement that goes far beyond the curriculum. It complements the fieldwork: while SOS Muriqui acts quickly to rescue isolated females, Rede Muriqui works on building a culture of preservation.

And for you, who want to help, the best contribution may be to share this idea, talk to the children in your community and let conservation become part of their everyday lives.