Founded on 26 January 1988, the Moisés Bertoni Foundation has spent 38 years safeguarding some of Paraguay’s most valuable natural, scientific and cultural heritage. Named after Swiss naturalist Moisés Bertoni, one of the most influential figures in the country’s scientific history. The foundation emerged with a clear mission: to protect biodiversity, promote research and preserve Bertoni’s legacy for future generations.
From its earliest years, the foundation positioned itself as a key actor in environmental conservation in Paraguay. Through the protection of natural reserves, scientific research and environmental education. Their work has connected academic knowledge with real-world conservation challenges, often anticipating debates that now dominate global environmental agendas.
The Moisés Bertoni Foundation
Today, the Moisés Bertoni Foundation administers three strategic areas for conservation. Each plays a crucial role in biodiversity protection and sustainable land management.
The Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve, located in the department of Canindeyú, stands as a landmark in Paraguayan conservation history. As the first private nature reserve in the country, it remains one of the most important remnants of the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest. Its ecological value, combined with long-term scientific research and strong community engagement, has turned it into a reference point at both national and regional levels.
In the department of Caazapá, the foundation manages the Tapytá Nature Reserve. This is a key area for the conservation of native ecosystems and endangered species. Meanwhile, the Aguapey Nature Reserve, located in the Central Department, plays a vital role in protecting wetlands and biodiversity.
Together, these territories function as living laboratories for scientific research and biodiversity protection. Through them, the foundation implements management models that promote coexistence between people and nature. This in order to balance conservation goals with social and economic realities.
Promoting science, education and public awareness
Additionally, the Moisés Bertoni Foundation has played a central role in scientific dissemination and environmental education. Workshops, publications, guided visits and collaborations with universities have helped translate scientific research into accessible knowledge for the wider public.
Education remains a cornerstone of its work. By engaging young people, local communities and decision-makers, the foundation has fostered environmental awareness rooted in Paraguay’s own ecological reality, rather than relying on imported models detached from local contexts.
For example, there is the Mbaracayú Educational Centre, located within the Mbaracayú Reserve. The centre focuses on training young women from rural and Indigenous communities, offering comprehensive education with an emphasis on environmental sciences, sustainable tourism and agroecological production. By combining academic training, productive practices and immersion in nature, the programme seeks to develop leaders committed to local development and the sustainable management of land.
Moisés Bertoni’s enduring influence
Moisés Bertoni was far more than a naturalist. His work spanned botany, anthropology, meteorology and linguistics. Hence making him a singular figure in Latin American scientific history. The foundation that bears his name has embraced that interdisciplinary spirit, promoting a holistic understanding of nature and culture as deeply interconnected elements.
Preserving Bertoni’s archives, ideas and scientific approach has allowed new generations to revisit his contributions. Many of which remain strikingly relevant in an era marked by climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.
Looking forward
After 38 years, the Moisés Bertoni Foundation stands as a reference point in Paraguay’s environmental and scientific landscape. Consequently, its trajectory reflects persistence, adaptability and a long-term vision that prioritises knowledge, conservation and cultural memory over short-term gains.
As environmental challenges grow increasingly complex, the foundation’s role becomes even more significant. By continuing to bridge science, conservation and society across its protected areas, its work honours Moisés Bertoni’s legacy while reaffirming the importance of safeguarding Paraguay’s natural heritage for generations yet to come.
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