The role of Quilombola communities in endemic species conservation programs in the Atlantic Forest

The Atlantic Forest in Brazil is a biodiversity hotspot and home to traditional communities, including quilombolas. Among its endemic and threatened species is the Juçara palm (Euterpe edulis), a keystone species to ecosystem resilience and community livelihoods. This study presents the first in-depth 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. Through semi-structured interviews and content analysis, we examined how the program is perceived by participants, focusing on governance structures, community engagement, and socio-environmental outcomes. Our findings reveal that participants’ strong connection with the Juçara palm and traditional ecological knowledge are central to their engagement in conservation activities. The program has provided resources to support environmental action, often inaccessible due to financial constraints. Reported benefits include improved water security, habitat recovery, and opportunities for sustainable income through the legal sale of Juçara seeds and pulp. Personal and social gains such as training, property improvements, and youth retention in rural areas were also cited. Trust between communities, program managers, and environmental monitors—many of whom are local—was identified as a condition for the program’s success. However, participants also raised concerns about limited enforcement against illegal harvesting, indicating the need for stronger protection of species and community rights. This study underscores the importance of tailoring PES initiatives to the socio-ecological realities of traditional communities. By integrating local knowledge and cultural values, PES programs can contribute to biodiversity conservation, social justice, and long-term sustainability in culturally rich landscapes.