Lessons in Partnership: Supporting Indigenous Leadership and Collaborative Approaches in REDD+ and Conservation Programs

Spring 2025 Harry ’51 and Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development Seminar Series

About the speaker

Santiago García Lloré, an Ecuadorian conservationist with over 20 years of experience, specializes in natural resource management and addressing socio-ecological problems. He holds a PhD in Natural Resources from Cornell University, a Master's degree in Conservation Leadership from Colorado State University, and a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Guayaquil State University. Throughout his academic and professional journey, Santiago has developed expertise in spatial ecology, human dimensions, sense of place, carbon markets, climate change, and community-based conservation strategies. Santiago has extensive experience working at different levels, collaborating with grassroots organizations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, as well as engaging with government representatives to implement sustainable and equitable conservation policies. He also serves as an associate researcher at the International Pacific Center for Disaster Reduction (CIPRRD).

As Senior Manager at EDF, Santiago has been a key contributor to supporting REDD+ programs, particularly in advancing jurisdictional REDD+ initiatives. He focuses on ensuring the effective engagement of IPLCs in carbon market strategies, emphasizing equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms and alignment with IPLC priorities. His work has fostered partnerships across diverse sectors, secured significant funding for conservation programs, and strengthened inclusive approaches to combating deforestation and enhancing livelihoods.  

About the seminar series

The Harry ’51 & Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development Seminar Series showcases innovative approaches to development with experts from around the globe. Each year, the series attracts online registrants from over 45 countries and more than 350 organizations. 

Seminars are held Wednesdays from 12:20-1:10 p.m. eastern time during the semester in 101 Bradfield Hall. Students, faculty and the general public are welcome to attend in-person or via Zoom.

The series is co-sponsored by the Department of Global Development, the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, and the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management as part of courses GDEV 4961, AEM 4961, NTRES 4961, GDEV 6960, AEM 6960, and NTRES 6960.