The Human Cost of Conservation

Geographically defined “protected areas,” managed by states or organizations, are one of the new global fronts against biodiversity loss and climate change. But many of those areas are already occupied by Indigenous peoples, whose rights are increasingly being violated in the name of conservation. This series explores how some conservation efforts are costing communities their homes — and in some cases their lives.
In This Series
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Tribes call on Haaland to push increased protections for the Grand Canyon
As a 20-year ban on mining in the Grand Canyon passes its midpoint, Indigenous nations look to continue protections indefinitely.
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Brazil’s president returns 800 square miles of Indigenous Iand to its original caretakers
The move bars non-Indigenous from any economic activity in the area and prohibits mining and logging without permission.
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Indigenous Maasai ask the United Nations to intervene on human rights abuses
Maasai leaders say they have few options as Tanzanian officials lock down protected areas.
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Restricted Access
Deep in the Peruvian Amazon, the Shipibo people are battling conservation authorities to reclaim management of their land.
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In Sweden, a proposed iron mine threatens a World Heritage Site — and the culture that made it
How some UNESCO World Heritage Sites can threaten Indigenous lives.
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How the world’s favorite conservation model was built on colonial violence
30x30 has been pitched as a key tool in the climate fight. Indigenous peoples say it threatens their lives.
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Fortress Conservation: A Legacy of Violence
From California to the Congo, policymakers have long sacrificed Indigenous peoples in the name of conservation.
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Want to protect your health? Start by protecting Indigenous land.
Protecting Indigenous lands in the Brazilian Amazon could prevent millions of respiratory diseases and billions in healthcare costs.
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Oscars goody bags contained ‘unseemly’ gift: certificates for Aboriginal land
Indigenous groups in Australia said they weren't consulted and called the conservation ploy a "money-making scheme."