New Nature Foundation

The New Nature Foundation is a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving wildlife and natural environments through innovative community-led initiatives. Established in 2006, the organization focuses on grassroots projects that align with local cultural practices to foster community engagement in conservation.

Founding and Mission

The foundation was co-founded by Michael Stern, the Andrew J. Baker Curator of Primates and Small Mammals at Philadelphia Zoo, and his wife, Rebecca Goldstone. Their initial project was the Kibale Fuel Wood Project in Uganda, designed to address deforestation by promoting sustainable alternatives such as fast-growing native trees, efficient stoves, and charcoal briquettes made from waste materials. By integrating these initiatives with extensive educational programs and cultural events, the foundation empowers local communities to make environmentally conscious decisions.

Programs and Impact

The foundation's work in Uganda has yielded significant results:

• Sustainable Fuel: Over 2.7 million cooking briquettes produced, reducing reliance on forest wood.
• Energy Efficiency: Nearly 5,000 efficient stoves built, minimizing the need for firewood.
• Community Engagement: Close to 500,000 interactions with local citizens have been logged since the project's inception.
• Environmental Savings: Over 20 million pounds of wood saved annually from natural forests.

Beyond Uganda, the New Nature Foundation has expanded its efforts to Vietnam, partnering with local communities to protect the Khau Ca Forest and the critically endangered Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys. This expansion highlights the organization's commitment to addressing pressing conservation challenges in diverse global settings.

Legal Status

The New Nature Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, making all donations tax-deductible in the United States.

Values and Practices

The foundation values collaboration and knowledge sharing, integrating cultural practices and traditions into its conservation strategies. This approach not only ensures community buy-in but also fosters sustainable and long-term conservation outcomes.