Photo credit: Elena Odareeva from Getty Images.
Partner Organisation: Atazis (The National Association of Green Life Empowerment)
Location: Iran
Iran is home to a remarkable diversity of ecosystems that span numerous biomes and ecological regions. From mangroves and wetlands to seas, deserts, mountains, rangelands, woodlands, and forests—this is a country where a vast range of natural wonders coexist.
Atazis, our new Alliance Partner, is dedicated to connecting all stakeholders—communities, researchers, and the public—with this extraordinary biodiversity. The organization strengthens sustainable initiatives at every level and promotes “Green Life” through education, empowerment, research, dialogue, and collaboration.
Photo credit: Siempreverde22 from Getty Images.
In Iran’s rugged mountains, sprawling deserts, and verdant forests, Atazis is fostering a renewed connection between local communities and the natural world. As a national NGO, its voluntary team is committed to rewilding and reconnecting transboundary landscapes, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and participation.
Guided by ethical principles and global ecocentric values, Atazis is focused on fostering a green society. Rewilding is about bringing back native flora and fauna— but it’s also about people, as reflected in their slogan, “Green Life.” The organization facilitates collaboration, providing education and opportunities for individuals to become active stewards of the environment.
For example, in the Kalat Naderi Mountains, Atazis has partnered with shepherds to implement sustainable grazing practices. Through workshops and eco-tourism initiatives, they transform both villagers and city dwellers into passionate advocates for nature.
One of local standout successes is an initiative aimed at restoring Iran’s once-abundant wild goat population. These agile creatures play a crucial role in maintaining the health of mountainous ecosystems. By working closely with local herders to prevent overgrazing and establishing wildlife corridors, Atazis is paving the way for these majestic animals to roam freely once again.
Photo credit: Peoples Trust for Endangered Species via Mongabay.
Perhaps the most ambitious and inspiring project is the reintroduction of the Persian leopard, one of the region’s most iconic and endangered species. These magnificent cats, which once roamed widely across Iran, now face severe threats from habitat loss and human conflict. Atazis has played a pivotal role in supporting the creation of protected zones and collaborating with local communities to provide these leopards with a safe habitat. Cameras placed in remote areas have recently captured the first sightings of Persian leopards returning to regions where they had been absent for decades—a moment of triumph for Atazis and its dedicated volunteer teams.
The work of Atazis is a powerful reminder that Iran’s landscapes, although scarred, hold immense potential for renewal. Each project stands as a testament to nature’s ability to heal—and to humanity’s ability to assist in that healing.
Their website, primarily in Persian, can be accessed here: http://atazis.ir/