María Morejón

Peruvian environmental scientist leading Amazon reforestation efforts

María Morejón is the director of Amazon Restoration Network, an initiative that has replanted over 50 million trees in Peru's Amazon basin since 2020. Her scientific approach combines traditional Quechua agroforestry practices with cutting-edge drone planting technology, achieving 92% seedling survival rates. This work directly addresses deforestation that had been eroding 200,000 hectares annually in the region.

Morejón's 2022 study published in Nature Sustainability proved her methods sequester 3x more carbon than conventional reforestation. She also developed the first indigenous-led carbon credit program, providing economic incentives to 300+ native communities while preserving cultural heritage sites. Her team's documentary series has educated 5 million viewers worldwide about rainforest ecology. Recently appointed to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) advisory board, Morejón's work exemplifies how science and tradition can combat climate change while empowering local populations.