Urum pursues renewal, both of nature and of the self. This project aims to restore and conserve 900 hectares of dry forests with very high levels of biodiversity and endemic species.

Located about 30 miles from the Chiclayo airport, this project aims to restore and conserve 900 hectares of dry forests with very high levels of biodiversity and endemic species, as well as protect and ensure the sustainability of a unique region in northern Peru.

But beyond the region’s conservation, Urum is also after the wellbeing of those who visit. The current non-stop lifestyle, along with increasingly demanding and never-ending responsibilities, makes it easy to forget what really matters: our essence. Today, it is imperative to disconnect to connect. Connect with ourselves, with our bodies and with nature.

A series of dry forests make their way amid the deserts in the northern part of the Peruvian coast. Two worlds collide within them: one dry and scarce, the other full of vegetation and life. This unique landscape, with drastic changes depending on the seasons, is full of contrasts and diversity.

These delicate forests are under threat. Deforestation, the expansion of informal agriculture, selective logging, and the development of livestock have almost completely wiped out the area’s landscape. Representative species from the dry forest, like the Holy Wood (Palo Santo) and Carob (Algarrobo) trees disappear daily due to indiscriminate felling.

If we manage to reduce the threats, we still have time to avert this dire situation

Thanks to the dry forests’ capacity to regenerate, restoring them is possible. Their restoration and revitalization not only protect the species that are only found in this particular ecosystem, but it also generates a positive impact for the surrounding communities and humanity as a whole. The ability of dry forests to endure long periods of time with no rain, remain a source of resources and maintain fertile soils, make it a prime example of survival in the face of climate change.

Another of Urum’s goals is to strengthen the area’s biodiversity. Species like the Peruvian plantcutter, the spectacled bear, and the arboreal anteater are under severe threat due to the destruction and degradation of their habitat. It is estimated that less than 1,000 specimens of the Peruvian plantcutter remain, and it is expected for the numbers to continue to go down. Conservation actions are urgent to ensure the survival of these and many other species.

With a plan to restore dry forests, Urum hopes to recover the Holy Wood (Palo Santo) and Carob (Algarrobo) trees. The Holy Wood possesses utilitarian, healing, and spiritual properties; and is also key in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance. The high consumption of coal on its own, has practically destroyed the Carob trees, a tree that also serves as food, fertilizer, medicine and raw materials.

With estimates that say that 95% of Latin America’s dry forests have disappeared, it is absolutely necessary to take action as soon as possible. The main causes of this situation are the human, industrial and climate change impacts. If we don’t act soon, many species will be lost forever.