Natalia Canales

Peruvian agroecologist empowering Andean farmers through sustainable practices

Natalia Canales (b. 1987) is revolutionizing agriculture in the Peruvian Andes through her AndesAgro initiative. Launched in 2021, her program trains farmers in ancestral agroecological techniques combined with modern soil science, resulting in 30% higher crop yields without chemical fertilizers. Over 3,000 families now participate in her rotational grazing systems that restore degraded highland ecosystems.

Canales' work addresses climate change impacts by preserving native potato varieties and restoring ancient terracing methods. Her 2023 partnership with NASA's climate resilience program introduced satellite monitoring to optimize water usage in drought-prone regions. A 2024 documentary "Seeds of Resilience" highlights her team's success in reversing desertification across 15,000 hectares.

Her community seed banks have preserved 89 traditional crop varieties, earning her the 2022 Equator Prize from the UN Development Programme. Canales' training modules are now being adapted for Himalayan and Himalayan communities facing similar ecological challenges.