Unesco Green Citizens

Proyecto Tití

Project begin: 01/01/1990

The cotton-top tamarin is emblematic of the rich biodiversity in Colombia’s tropical north. To protect this endangered species and support local livelihoods, Proyecto Tití have developed an integrated approach involving communities.

Leading organisation: Fundación Proyecto Tití

The country where the team is based: Colombia

Theme: Biodiversity, Education for Sustainable Development

Sub-themes: Climate change, Environment, Forests and desertification, Gender equality and women's empowerment, Knowledge sharing

Selection: 2021

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Community members participating in conservation project of Proyecto Titi, to help cotton-topped tamarins (Saguinus oedipus). Members are making “eco-mochila” bags, traditional style bags made out of littered plastic bags, which are then sold to tourists to raise money for tamarin conservation Los Limites, Colombia *Editorial use only - no model release available

For Dr Anne Savage, tamarin specialist and founder of the Tití project, developing effective conservation programmes requires more than scientific studies. To ensure the survival of the cotton-top tamarin monkey – threatened by deforestation and capture – and biodiversity in northern Colombia, the project team works with an integrated approach. Scientific research is combined with forest restoration, environmental awareness and community development to reduce threats from different angles.

Supporting and support from local communities

Overseen by the Fundación Proyecto Tití, this project has four main focuses. Firstly, the team carries out field research to inform strategies, assess habitats and support the conservation of cotton-top tamarins and their forest homes. Secondly, the team protects and restores forests through partnerships and conservation agreements with local communities. Thirdly, they educate local children and adults to increase awareness. Finally, they offer income-generating programmes that provide alternatives to exploiting forest resources and make conservation economically feasible.

Since being launched, Proyecto Tití has protected nearly 5,400 hectares and created more than 200 hectares of forest corridor. More than 12,000 school children from nearby communities have learnt about the importance of conserving the cotton-top tamarin. More than 200 families have signed conservation agreements that provide better livelihood opportunities.

Active in the Atlántico and Bolivar regions, Proyecto Tití works in partnership with other organisations to maximise its reach and scope in northern Colombia.

Would you like to help Proyecto Tití further increase its impact and use the cotton-top tamarin as the flagship species for the conservation of Colombia’s natural resources?

Proyectotiti.com