Founded by local women in 2003, Asociación de Artesanas de Arbolsol y Huaca de Barro (AAAHB, Women Artisans’ Association of Arbolsol and Huaca de Barro) works to recover traditional methods of cotton production that are environmentally responsible and create positive socioeconomic change in Mórrope District, Lambayeque, northern Peru.

The association oversees the planting and harvesting of native cotton varieties using only pesticides from natural sources. In addition to cotton production, the association has also been active in managing water resources in this semi-arid region. Traditional colours of native cotton have been recovered, water resources have been cleaned as a result of better management, and organic cotton products are sold in local markets. The association has been at the forefront of a national movement in Peru to change perceptions of native cotton production.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2008

Founded: 2003

Location: Mórrope district, Lambayeque region, Peru

Beneficiaries: 35 families

Biodiversity: Five native cotton species

 

Case Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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