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Fundación Pachamama’s Solar Transportation Project for the Achuar people in Ecuador and Peru is one of seven winners of a regional contest by the Ministry of External Relations of Finland, assisted by the Inter-american Institute of Cooperation for Agriculture (IICA). The main goal of this contest is to promote innovative and replicable renewable energy projects.
First Solar-powered Public Transportation in the Amazon
With a network of boats propelled by electric motors and solar recharge stations, currently being designed by the Achuar nation and Fundación Pachamama, this project will be the first solar-powered public transportation system in the Amazon basin.
The network will cover a circuit of approximately 150 kilometers of the Pastaza and Bobonaza rivers, and its design is being developed with the assistance of experts in maritime design, electrical and photovoltaic engineers, universities, and research centers.
A Sustainable, Alternative Solution for Community Needs
This solar riverine network aims to provide a sustainable and accessible mode of transportation to the Achuar people within their territory, which remains roadless and pristine.
Walking and canoes that use gasoline are the main means of transportation for the Achuar. But their territory has a vast network of rivers and tributaries, and plenty of sun, meaning that an environmentally-friendly alternative to the gas boats – which do not reflect the Achuar’s commitment to protect their rainforest home – is possible.
We are very excited to be implementing with the Achuar this unique transportation network in the Amazon.
