What does it take to protect one of the world’s most vital ecosystems while addressing poverty, inequality, and the rights of indigenous peoples?

This immersive Global Field Intensive in Peru invites students to explore one of the most urgent and complex challenges of our time: safeguarding the Amazon while confronting the environmental, social, and political pressures that threaten its survival. Through hands-on learning in the Peruvian Amazon and highland regions, students will investigate the competing forces driving deforestation, illegal mining, migration, and agro-industrial expansion—and explore innovative solutions aimed at creating a sustainable, just future.

On this program, students will engage directly with small-scale farmers, women’s cooperatives, indigenous leaders, BioTrade entrepreneurs, policy makers, and activists. Together, we will examine the interconnected issues of extractive capitalism, biodiversity loss, climate change, gender equality, and indigenous land rights and ask: can sustainable development work for both people and planet?

Visit the program website for more information.