The hardy Polylepis are the world’s highest altitude forests, growing up to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, just beneath the glaciers.

Their capacity to absorb enormous quantities of mist from the clouds, even in the dry season, transforms degraded, eroded landscapes into healthy soil, streams, and wetlands.

Polylepis forests are critical in ensuring that freshwater, including glacial melt, is captured and reaches not only nearby mountain villages, but also the millions of people in lowland towns and cities who depend upon it, including for agriculture.

The freshwater these forests store feeds into the watersheds at the headwaters of the Amazon.

Polylepis provide habitat for threatened species. Restored forests will also offer refuge for species of birds and mammals able to survive climate change by successfully migrating to higher ground.