Virgilio Viana
About Virgilio Viana
Virgilio Viana serves as the Superintendente Geral at Fundação Amazônia Sustentável and is recognized for his significant contributions to environmental conservation, including reducing deforestation in Amazonas by 66%. He holds a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from Harvard University and has held various academic and leadership roles in environmental organizations.
Work at Fundação Amazônia Sustentável
Virgilio Viana has served as Superintendente Geral at Fundação Amazônia Sustentável (FAS) since 2008. In this role, he oversees initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development in the Amazon region. His leadership has contributed to various conservation efforts and environmental programs that align with the foundation's mission to protect the Amazon rainforest.
Education and Expertise
Virgilio Viana holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology from Harvard University, where he studied from 1984 to 1989. He also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Sustainable Development at the University of Florida. Earlier, he earned a degree in Forestry Engineering from Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ/USP) from 1979 to 1984.
Background in Environmental Management
Viana was the first Secretary of State for Environment and Sustainable Development of the State of Amazonas, serving from 2002 to 2008. During his tenure, he was instrumental in reducing deforestation by 66% and helped establish 12 million hectares of conservation units. His experience in environmental management has shaped his approach to sustainable development in the Amazon.
Achievements in Conservation and Sustainability
Throughout his career, Virgilio Viana has been recognized for significant contributions to environmental conservation. He co-chaired the Forests, Biodiversity, and Environmental Services group of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and served as an international advisor for the Environmental Services and Poverty Alleviation (ESPA) program. His efforts have been pivotal in advancing sustainable practices in the Amazon.
Professional Affiliations and Leadership Roles
Viana is a founding member of the Instituto Amigos da Amazônia and has served as president of the Instituto de Proteção Ambiental do Amazonas (IPAAM). He is also an ordinary member of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences of the Vatican and coordinates the Sustainable Development Solutions Network – Amazon (SDSN). His involvement in these organizations reflects his commitment to sustainable development and environmental advocacy.