The Role of Quilombola Communities in Endemic Species Conservation in the Atlantic Forest: The Case of PES Juçara Program

Abstract We present the first detailed assessment of a Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) program involving quilombola communities—the PES Juçara—designed to promote conservation and restoration of the Juçara palm. Using semi-structured interviews and content analysis, we examined participants’ perceptions of the program, focusing on governance structures, community involvement, and socio-environmental outcomes. Our results show that participants’ strong connection to the Juçara palm and traditional local knowledge are key to their engagement in conservation activities. Reported benefits include improved water security, habitat recovery, and opportunities for sustainable income from the legal sale of Juçara seeds and pulp. Personal and social benefits, including training, property improvements, and youth retention in rural areas, were also observed. Trust among communities, program managers, and environmental monitors—many of whom are locals—was identified as essential for the program’s success. Our study emphasizes the importance of tailoring PES initiatives to the socio-ecological contexts of traditional communities. By incorporating local knowledge and cultural values, PES programs can support biodiversity conservation, address socio-environmental issues, and promote long-term sustainability in culturally rich landscapes.