The PRODIGY project takes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding how diverse systems—ecological, social, and economic—interact and influence each other
The Amazon is changing rapidly, and with it, the delicate balance between nature and society. By integrating knowledge across different fields and scales, PRODIGY seeks to identify pathways that enhance resilience and prevent harmful tipping points.
Tipping points occur when ecosystems or societies undergo abrupt and often irreversible shifts, leading to loss of crucial functions. In the MAP region—spanning Madre de Dios in Peru, Acre in Brazil, and Pando in Bolivia—rapid changes in land use, governance, and climate pose significant challenges. PRODIGY investigates how the diversity of systems, from governance structures to economic models and ecological processes, can buffer against these disruptions and contribute to sustainable development.
Collaboration between scientists and communities
Bringing together experts from geography, economics, environmental science, and political science, PRODIGY fosters collaboration between scientists and local communities. The project is deeply rooted in participatory research, using living labs and scenario panels to co-develop strategies that balance conservation with human well-being. By working in key protected areas such as the Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Reserva Nacional de Vida Silvestre Amazónica Manuripi, and Reserva Extrativista Chico Mendes, the project ensures its findings are directly relevant to policy and practice.
Through interdisciplinary research and local engagement, PRODIGY provides valuable insights for policymakers, scientists, and communities, equipping them with the knowledge needed to navigate complex environmental and social changes. By uncovering the limits and potentials of natural resources in the MAP region, the project contributes to a more resilient and sustainable Amazon.
Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), PRODIGY has been running since 2019 and will conclude by the end of 2025.
